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arch-linux — GitHub Copilot rule: what it does and how to install

This rule guides GitHub Copilot when it writes Arch Linux instructions, scripts, or documentation. Use it for package management, service troubleshooting, and system configuration.

Install into GitHub Copilot · Manually: put the files in place All methods and platforms ↓
.github/instructions/arch-linux.instructions.md
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What arch-linux does

The rule applies to every project file (applyTo: **). It recommends full system upgrades with pacman -Syu, package inspection with pacman -Qi, pacman -Ql, and pacman -Ss, and systemctl and journalctl for service work. Troubleshooting guidance calls for checking the current kernel and recent package changes.

It also covers systemd drop-ins under /etc/systemd/system/<unit>.d/, least-privilege sudo use, and validation after changes. The rule advises against editing files under /usr and notes that kernel or core library upgrades can require a reboot. For AUR packages, it calls for explicit cautions and a reminder to review the PKGBUILD; partial upgrades are discouraged.

What it helps with

  • choose a command for a full Arch Linux upgrade
  • inspect details and files for an installed package
  • find systemd service status and logs
  • write validation and rollback steps for a configuration change

Example prompts for the agent

  • Explain how to fully upgrade Arch Linux and inspect installed packages.
  • Help diagnose a failing systemd service on Arch Linux, with commands to check its status and logs.
  • Write instructions for installing an AUR package and include a reminder to review the PKGBUILD.

How to install arch-linux

Manually: put the files in place

.github/instructions/arch-linux.instructions.md

The applyTo field sets which files it applies to

Step by step, with commands for each platform: AGENTS.md vs CLAUDE.md: what they are and which one to use

Questions about arch-linux

How do I install arch-linux in GitHub Copilot?

Add .github/instructions/arch-linux.instructions.md to your project.

What does the arch-linux rule do?

It guides Arch Linux instructions, scripts, and documentation, covering package upgrades, service management, configuration, and security.

Why does the rule recommend pacman -Syu?

Arch Linux follows a rolling-release model. The rule recommends full system upgrades and warns against partial upgrades.

Source text

arch-linux.instructions.md · MIT
---
description: 'Guidance for Arch Linux administration, pacman workflows, and rolling-release best practices.'
applyTo: '**'
---

# Arch Linux Administration Guidelines

Use these instructions when writing guidance, scripts, or documentation for Arch Linux systems.

## Platform Alignment

- Emphasize the rolling-release model and the need for full upgrades.
- Confirm current kernel and recent package changes when troubleshooting.
- Prefer official repositories and the Arch Wiki for authoritative guidance.

## Package Management

- Use `pacman -Syu` for full system upgrades; avoid partial upgrades.
- Inspect packages with `pacman -Qi`, `pacman -Ql`, and `pacman -Ss`.
- Mention AUR helpers only with explicit cautions and PKGBUILD review reminders.

## Configuration & Services

- Keep configuration under `/etc` and avoid editing files in `/usr`.
- Use systemd drop-ins in `/etc/systemd/system/<unit>.d/`.
- Use `systemctl` and `journalctl` for service control and logs.

## Security

- Note reboot requirements after kernel or core library upgrades.
- Recommend least-privilege `sudo` usage and minimal packages.
- Call out firewall tooling expectations (nftables/ufw) explicitly.

## Deliverables

- Provide commands in copy-paste-ready blocks.
- Include validation steps after changes.
- Offer rollback or cleanup steps for risky operations.

© github · MIT · github/awesome-copilot

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