Installing EndeavourOS typically involves creating a bootable USB drive, but what if you don’t have one available? This list covers 10 practical methods to install EndeavourOS without using a USB device. Whether you’re working on a computer with limited ports, prefer network-based setups, or want to install from an existing Linux system, these options provide clear, effective alternatives.
1. Install via Network Boot (PXE)
Network booting with PXE (Preboot Execution Environment) allows you to boot the EndeavourOS installer over a local network without any USB or DVD. This requires setting up a PXE server with TFTP and DHCP services on another machine, hosting the EndeavourOS ISO files. PXE is ideal for multiple installations or when USB devices are restricted, but it demands some initial configuration and a working network environment.
2. Use Ventoy with ISO on Internal Drive
Ventoy is a bootable USB creation tool, but you can also configure your internal hard drive to boot ISOs using Ventoy’s method. By copying the EndeavourOS ISO to a dedicated partition and modifying your bootloader (GRUB), you can boot directly into the ISO without USB. This approach is useful if you want a persistent multi-boot environment or lack external media.
3. Install from Existing Linux With chroot
If you already have a Linux system installed, you can download the EndeavourOS root filesystem and use chroot to perform the installation manually. This involves mounting the target partitions, extracting the EndeavourOS base system, and configuring bootloader and packages inside the chroot environment. It’s a flexible option for advanced users comfortable with command-line and system internals.
4. Use a Virtual Machine to Prepare the Installation
Running EndeavourOS in a virtual machine (VM) like VirtualBox or QEMU allows you to customize and prepare your installation before transferring it to your physical hardware. You can install EndeavourOS fully in the VM, then clone or image the VM disk to the real machine’s drive. This method is excellent for testing or complicated setups without USB.
5. Boot ISO Directly from GRUB
GRUB bootloader can be configured to boot an ISO file stored on your hard drive. By placing the EndeavourOS ISO in an accessible partition and editing your GRUB configuration, you can select the ISO at boot time, launching the installer without external media. This method is fast and effective but requires familiarity with GRUB syntax and manual editing.
6. Use a DVD or CD Instead of USB
If USB is not an option but your computer has an optical drive, burning the EndeavourOS ISO to a DVD or CD is a straightforward alternative. Optical media can be slower than USB but is widely supported on older systems. This traditional method requires a writable DVD/CD drive and blank discs but avoids USB entirely.
7. Install via Network Installer Scripts
Some Arch-based distributions, including EndeavourOS, support network installation via scripted commands that download and install the system over the internet. Using a minimal ISO or existing Linux system, you can run scripts that fetch the latest packages and configure the system remotely. This method requires a stable internet connection and comfort with command-line installation.
8. Use External Hard Drive as Installation Media
Instead of USB flash drives, an external hard drive can be formatted and made bootable with the EndeavourOS ISO. This is essentially the same process as creating a bootable USB but on a larger, often more durable device. It’s useful if you already own an external HDD or SSD and want to avoid using small USB sticks.
9. Install Using Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)
While WSL does not support running a full Linux desktop natively, you can use it to prepare an EndeavourOS root filesystem or configure a chroot environment. This is a niche method mostly for advanced users who want to experiment or prepare files before transferring them to a real Linux system. It won’t replace a full installation but aids in setup without USB.
10. Use a Rescue or Live Environment Pre-Installed on Disk
Some users maintain a small rescue or live Linux environment on a dedicated partition. From this environment, you can download and install EndeavourOS directly onto another partition without USB. This method requires prior setup but offers a fast way to reinstall or install EndeavourOS without external devices.
How to Choose
Choosing the best method depends on your hardware, technical skill, and available resources. If you have network access and multiple machines, PXE boot is efficient and scalable. For single machines without network setup, booting the ISO from GRUB or using an external hard drive is practical. Users comfortable with Linux internals may prefer chroot or network script installations for fine control. Optical media remains a fallback option for older hardware. Consider your comfort with command-line tools, the availability of a second device to host PXE or files, and whether you want a temporary installer or a persistent multi-boot setup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install EndeavourOS without any external media at all?
Yes, methods like PXE boot, booting ISO from GRUB, or chroot installations allow you to install without USB or DVDs.
Is network installation slower than USB?
It depends on your network speed. PXE boot and network script installs rely on stable internet or LAN speeds, which can be slower or faster than USB depending on your setup.
Do I need advanced Linux knowledge for these methods?
Some methods, like chroot or GRUB ISO boot, require familiarity with Linux command line and system configuration, while others like DVD installation are more straightforward.
Can I use these methods on all computers?
Hardware compatibility varies; older computers may lack PXE support or have limited boot options. Always check your BIOS/UEFI capabilities first.
Is it safe to modify GRUB to boot an ISO?
Yes, if done correctly. Incorrect GRUB edits can render your system unbootable but can be fixed with rescue tools.
Can I install EndeavourOS alongside Windows without USB?
Yes, using GRUB ISO boot or PXE, you can install EndeavourOS in dual-boot setups, but careful partitioning and bootloader configuration are necessary.
Final Thoughts
Installing EndeavourOS without USB is entirely feasible with several effective alternatives. Whether through network booting, internal ISO boot, or manual chroot installation, these methods cater to different skill levels and hardware setups. Choosing the right approach depends on your environment and comfort with Linux tools, but all provide a way to enjoy EndeavourOS without relying on traditional USB installation media.
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