Parabola GNU/Linux-libre is a clone of the Arch Linux operating system, but designed to include only libre software, applications, libraries and command-line tools that are completely open source and free. It features no graphical desktop environment and works the same as Arch Linux.
Distributed as a dual-arch Live CD ISO image
Being based on Arch Linux, the Parabola GNU/Linux-libre operating system is distributed as a dual-arch Live CD ISO image of approximately 500MB in size, usable on either 32-bit (i386) or 64-bit (x86_64) hardware platforms.
Boot options à la Arch Linux
The boot screen on the Live CD is also identical with the one of Arch Linux, allowing the user to boot Parabola GNU/Linux-libre on 64-bit (x86_64) or 32-bit (i686) computers, boot an existing operating system, run a memory test using the Memtest86+ tool, view detailed hardware information using HDT (Hardware Detection Tool), as well as to reboot or shutdown the machine.
Text-mode, manual installation in the style of Arch Linux
The distro features a text-mode installation method that requires the user to manually connect to the Internet, partition the disk drive, install the basic system, as well as to enter the chroot environment and install all the packages that he or she needs, very similar to the Arch Linux installation.
Of course, this means that you can install any number of packages, any desktop environment or window manager, and configure/customize the operating system as you see fit. Which also means that the operating system is targeted towards experienced users.
Bottom line
Summing up, Parabola GNU/Linux-libre is a great fork of Arch Linux, specifically designed for people who want to use only libre, fully open source software. It also features a rolling-release model, which means that you won’t have to download a new ISO image to upgrade the installation to the most recent version.
