GNOME OS Nightly nightly

Before you install

Read the release notes and installation guide before downloading. Select an image that matches the processor architecture and intended use: desktop, server, live media, virtual machine or another published edition. Test Wi-Fi, graphics, audio, storage and suspend from live media when that option is available. Back up important files before repartitioning, encryption changes or dual-boot installation. Download from an official project page or mirror, compare the published SHA-256 checksum, and verify a signed checksum when the project provides one. After installation, apply updates before adding third-party repositories or drivers.

1. 1
   Check the SHA-256

   Compare the file with the checksum published by GNOME OS Nightly. If it does not match, download it again.

2. 2
   Write it to a USB drive

   Use Ventoy, balenaEtcher, Fedora Media Writer or Rufus. Copying the ISO as a normal file does not work.

3. 3
   Boot from the USB

   Open the boot menu (often F12, F10 or Esc) and choose the USB drive in UEFI mode. Back up your data first.

About GNOME OS Nightly

GNOME OS Nightly is the GNOME project’s continuously built integration and testing system for trying the latest GNOME software. It can run in GNOME Boxes or on supported hardware, but the project explicitly classifies it as pre-release software unsuitable for production use.

Who is it for?

GNOME OS Nightly is primarily suited to daily desktop use, study, web browsing and productivity; experienced Linux users who want detailed control over the system. Its rolling-release model delivers changes continuously, so regular updates and attention to project announcements are part of normal maintenance. This distribution is based on independent, which influences package formats, repositories and much of the available documentation. The listed desktop environment is GNOME; confirm its memory, graphics and accessibility requirements on the official project site. The best choice depends on hardware support, preferred software, update policy and the amount of system administration the user wants to perform.

Advantages and limitations

Advantages

• Provides a focused alternative to mainstream Linux distributions with its own selection of defaults.

Limitations

• Installation or administration may require more Linux knowledge than beginner-focused systems.
• Its independent package ecosystem can have fewer third-party instructions than Debian-, Ubuntu- or Arch-based systems.