The Fedora Linux installer, Anaconda, is getting a major overhaul. The new interface is web-based and designed to make installing Fedora Linux easier and more user-friendly. The new and improved Anaconda Web UI aims to simplify the installation process by providing a guided, step-by-step experience with clear defaults and options for different installation scenarios.
It's designed to be user-friendly, particularly for newcomers to Fedora, and to replace the existing GTK-based interface, which has been deemed complex and outdated.
The new Anaconda Web UI will debut in Fedora Linux 42, beginning with the Workstation Live ISO. The rollout will happen in stages, starting with the Workstation installation, then expanding to other desktops, and finally, to server installations.
In this blog post, we will discuss the reasons for the change, the benefits of the new Anaconda Web UI, and how to try it out.
Table of Contents
Why is the Fedora Installer Changing?
The current Anaconda installer is based on GTK, a toolkit that provides the buttons and other widgets that make up many applications and desktops on Linux.
The current design has been around for decades and can be complex and jargon-heavy, especially for newcomers. The hub-and-spoke design can feel like jumping around sections during installation.
The Anaconda team wanted to create a more streamlined experience that guides users through the installation process step-by-step in a linear fashion.
What's New in the Anaconda Web UI Installer?
The new web UI is designed to be more user-friendly and accessible. Some of the key features include:
Task-oriented design
The new interface is designed around common installation tasks, making it easier to find the options you need. These tasks include:
- Using the entire disk for a fresh installation,
- Sharing a disk with another operating system in a dual-boot mode,
- Reinstalling Fedora while keeping your data,
- Custom partitions, using mount point assignment.
Simplified storage configuration
The new interface makes it easier to partition your disk and install Fedora, even if you're not familiar with disk partitioning. You can decide how you’ll install on a system, based on the current system’s available storage.
Improved accessibility
The new interface is designed to be more accessible for users with disabilities.
Benefits of a Web-Based Interface
Using a web-based UI for the installer has a number of benefits, including:
- Easier to update and maintain: Web-based applications are generally easier to update and maintain than traditional desktop applications.
- Easier to adapt to future changes: The web-based interface is more flexible and can be easily adapted to future changes.
- Enables more community contributions: The web-based interface makes it easier for developers to contribute to Anaconda, as web development is a more common skill than GTK development.
- Remote installation capabilities: The web-based interface could be extended to allow for remote installations from a web browser in the future.
Trying Out the New Fedora Installer
The Anaconda Web UI will be shipped with Fedora Linux 42 version. A test ISO is available for those who want to try out the new web UI installer. You can install it on a virtual machine or a secondary physical machine. Do not install this on your main computer or any machine with important information.
Download the ISO from this link. Once downloaded, create a bootable USB drive using a bootable USB creation software like Fedora Media Writer or Ventoy.
After creating the bootable drive, use it to boot your system and proceed with the installation as usual. Instead of the old Anaconda installer, you will now be using the new and improved Anaconda installer through out the installation.
The Fedora team have put together a few demo videos to show you what it would be like to use Anaconda.
Anaconda Web UI Demo - Dual Boot:
Anaconda Web UI Demo - Reinstall Fedora:
A Few Things to Keep in Mind
The new Anaconda Web UI is still under development, so there are a few things to keep in mind:
- The current demo is English only. Translations are in progress.
- The text used in the installer is still being refined.
- The new installer will be rolled out in stages, starting with the Workstation installation experience.
The Fedora team is looking for feedback on the new installer, so be sure to let them know what you think!
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