I recently installed Arch Linux with GNOME but after discovering Hyprland, I gave it a shot by installing the ml4w dotfiles for that environment. I'm totally new to Linux and struggling to figure out how to configure WiFi, Bluetooth, and other essentials. Can someone guide me through the setup? Also, I'm curious if I can remove GNOME now that I'm planning to use Hyprland exclusively. I really prefer getting solid advice from real people instead of just AI tools!
5 Answers
You can definitely delete GNOME if you want to stick exclusively with Hyprland. Just keep in mind that you might still need it to set up your WiFi and Bluetooth initially since those require a desktop environment. It’s best to log into GNOME first to get those connections working. Check the Arch documentation or look for some recent YouTube tutorials, they can be super helpful!
Hyprland can be quite complex to set up. If you want a smooth experience, focus on a desktop environment that’s user-friendly. If you're after a stylish blur effect, there are other options within KDE or even revamped setups in GNOME. Switching distros? No need to wipe your entire system; just back up your important files before proceeding!
Starting with Arch and Hyprland can be pretty challenging, especially if you’re new to Linux. Many users find it easier to start with a distribution like Linux Mint or Ubuntu before jumping into something like Arch. You might want to reconsider your choice unless you're really determined. However, if you're set on Hyprland, you'll have to manually configure a lot. Make sure to check out the Arch Wiki for guidance on connecting your WiFi and Bluetooth. It can be a bit tricky, but the documentation is pretty thorough!
I definitely agree! It’s a steep learning curve. Starting with another distro can save you a lot of headaches.
Honestly, diving into Arch and a tiling manager like Hyprland right away is a lot, especially for beginners. I’d suggest sticking with GNOME or KDE for now until you’re more comfortable. Once you have a clearer understanding, you can then experiment with Hyprland without the pressure of getting everything perfect from the start.
You might find that most users prefer more established environments rather than starting with something like Arch and Hyprland. That being said, if you persist with Hyprland, make sure to take backups and read through the documentation thoroughly. Patience is key here!

Thanks, that makes sense! I'll look into that.