Arch Linux has issued its February installation ISO, incorporating package updates from January 2026. This monthly snapshot includes a newer kernel, system libraries, and security enhancements for fresh installations. Users can now download it from official mirrors to set up the latest version of the rolling-release distribution.
Arch Linux, known for its rolling-release model, has made available its updated ISO for February, capturing all repository changes from January 2026. This release focuses on providing current software for new setups without introducing unique distribution modifications.
Key system components have seen significant refreshes. The mainline Linux kernel now stands at version 6.18.7, while the long-term support variant is 6.12.68, offering choices for stability-focused users. Core libraries include Glibc 2.42 and systemd 259, with the package manager Pacman updated to 7.1 for smoother operations.
Security remains a priority, with OpenSSL at 3.6.1, Curl 8.18, refreshed CA certificates, Cryptsetup 2.8.4 for encryption needs, and OpenSSH 9.9p1 for secure remote access. Hardware compatibility benefits from the linux-firmware package version 20260110-1, supporting vendors like AMD, Intel, NVIDIA, Realtek, and Broadcom, plus updated AMD CPU microcode.
Graphics support features the open-source Mesa stack at 25.3.3, including Vulkan and OpenCL elements. Post-installation, users can access the open-source NVIDIA drivers based on 590.48.01.
Desktop environments have also advanced. KDE Plasma reaches 6.5.5, paired with Frameworks 6.22 and Gear 25.12. GNOME arrives at 49.1, complete with updated Shell and utilities. Additional options include Cinnamon 6.6, Hyprland 0.53.1, and COSMIC 1.0.4.
Popular applications round out the updates: Firefox 147 for browsing, LibreOffice 25.8.4 for productivity, Docker 29.2 for containers, and GIMP 3.0.8 for image work. The guided installer, Archinstall, is now at 3.0.15.
This ISO suits new installations exclusively; existing systems should use 'sudo pacman -Syu' for updates. Downloads are live on Arch mirrors as of the February 1, 2026, snapshot.
