Create a Bootable Device - Revision history

Sir-edge: Drive was hardcoded to /dev/sda1 in one place

2026-02-05T03:31:57Z

Drive was hardcoded to /dev/sda1 in one place

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:31, 5 February 2026
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	# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}		# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/~~sda1~~}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sdXY}}
	# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}		# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}
	# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}		# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}

Prabuanand: rephrased sentence for clarity and added information related to pi

2025-09-30T17:45:20Z

rephrased sentence for clarity and added information related to pi

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:45, 30 September 2025
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	This page is about preparing customizable boot device ~~using a writable filesystem~~ i.e~~. non-iso9660 on~~ USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk.		This page is about preparing a directly customizable boot media or '''customizable boot device''' for Alpine Linux, i.e a USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk based boot device with a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660.

	A ~~directly customizable Alpine Linux boot medium or simply '''~~customizable boot device~~'''~~ is basically an Alpine system in '''[[Diskless_Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data_Disk_Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode installed to (and booting from) a device with a writable filesystem. ~~It allows to also upgrade the kernel with its modules and firmware that is used to boot the system with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.~~		A customizable boot device is basically an Alpine system in '''[[Diskless_Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data_Disk_Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode installed to (and booting from) a device with a writable filesystem. A customizable boot device allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations as [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] file and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]]. It also allows to upgrade the kernel with its modules and firmware that is used to boot the system with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

	~~When performing [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|diskless installation]],~~ customizable boot device allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations as [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] file and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]].

	~~The Customizable boot device can~~ also be used ~~as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools~~.

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==

	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired [https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Alpine release] ~~on an existing Alpine Linux machine~~.		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> or <code>.img.gz</code> file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.img.gz</code> containing the desired [https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Alpine release].
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.

	== Preparing customizable boot device ==		== Preparing customizable boot device ==

	[[~~Alpine_setup_scripts~~#setup-bootable\|~~Setup~~-bootable]] script is the preferred method ~~to create~~ a customizable boot device ~~on a FAT32 filesystem for x86_64 and x86~~. For other filesystems/architectures refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] section.		To create a customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem for x86_64 and x86 using [[#Using setup-bootable\|setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method. For [[Raspberry Pi]], using the image file i.e img.gz and following the [[Installation#Preparing installation media\|installation media preparation steps]] with the SD card results in a customizable boot device. For other filesystems/architectures refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] section.

	=== Using setup-bootable ===		=== Using setup-bootable ===

	~~Follow the below steps to use the <Code>Setup-bootable</Code> script to create a directly customizable~~ boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.		Customizable boot device can be created on a FAT32 filesystem using the [[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script by following these steps. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.

	# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.		# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.
	# Ensure that '''customizable boot device''' is ~~already~~ plugged in~~. Install~~ the necessary tools ~~to prepare the customizable bootable device so that it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later~~:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools ~~wipefs~~ util-linux}}		# Ensure that '''customizable boot device''' is plugged in before installing the necessary tools:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools util-linux}}
	#: {{Warning\|Do not proceed if you're unsure of device name or if you have valuable data on your USB drive.The instructions in this section use {{Path\|/dev/sda}}. Alter the device name i.e {{Path\|/dev/sda}} as needed. }}		#:{{Warning\|Use <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the correct device name for your '''customizable boot device''' and use it instead of {{Path\|/dev/sdX}} used here. If you are unsure, do not proceed, seek [[Alpine Linux:Support\|support]].}}
	~~# Run~~ <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your '''customizable boot device'''~~. Let's say~~ it's /dev/~~sda for this example~~, ~~change as needed~~. ~~Issue the below command to~~ nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/~~sda~~:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/~~sda~~}}		# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] ~~sda1~~ with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it.		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], figure out where the install media files are mounted.		# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}
	~~#:{{Tip\| If you run {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a~~ read only('''ro''') mount for ~~something like~~ '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment~~.}}~~		# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}
	~~# If the install media is mounted at '''/~~media/cdrom~~''', issue~~ the command:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/~~sda1~~}}
	# Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command ~~in an existing Alpine Linux machine~~: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/~~sda1~~}}

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===

Prabuanand: fixed typo

2025-09-30T04:10:40Z

fixed typo

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:10, 30 September 2025
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	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==

	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired ~~Alpine release (~~[https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ ~~Download~~])		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired [https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Alpine release] on an existing Alpine Linux machine.
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.

Prabuanand: rephrased sentence to make the steps acccurate and easier to follow

2025-09-29T17:04:54Z

rephrased sentence to make the steps acccurate and easier to follow

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:04, 29 September 2025
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	This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 on USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk.		This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 on USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk.

	~~The Customizable~~ boot device ~~can be used to~~ [[Diskless_Mode~~#Finishing_diskless_installation~~\|~~perform~~ diskless ~~installation~~]]~~. In [~~[~~Diskless Mode]], this allows <code>~~[~~[Alpine_local_backup~~\|~~Local Backup Utility~~]](~~lbu~~)~~</code> utility~~ to ~~store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]]. The~~ kernel modules and firmware ~~can be updated using~~ the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.		A directly customizable Alpine Linux boot medium or simply '''customizable boot device''' is basically an Alpine system in '''[[Diskless_Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data_Disk_Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode installed to (and booting from) a device with a writable filesystem. It allows to also upgrade the kernel with its modules and firmware that is used to boot the system with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

	The Customizable boot device can also be used as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools ~~or serve as an installation media for Alpine Linux [[Installation\|installation]]~~.		When performing [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|diskless installation]], customizable boot device allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations as [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] file and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]].

			The Customizable boot device can also be used as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools.

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==

	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|~~Installation Media~~]], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download]) ~~on an existing Alpine Linux machine.~~		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download])
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a customizable boot device.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.

	== Preparing customizable boot device ==		== Preparing customizable boot device ==

	[[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method to create a ~~directly~~ customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. For other filesystems refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]].		[[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method to create a customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem for x86_64 and x86. For other filesystems/architectures refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] section.

	=== Using setup-bootable ===		=== Using setup-bootable ===
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	Follow the below steps to use the <Code>Setup-bootable</Code> script to create a directly customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.		Follow the below steps to use the <Code>Setup-bootable</Code> script to create a directly customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.

	# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|~~Installation Media~~]]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.		# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.
	# Ensure that customizable boot device is already plugged in ~~or installed~~. Install the necessary tools to prepare the customizable bootable device so that it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools wipefs util-linux}}		# Ensure that '''customizable boot device''' is already plugged in. Install the necessary tools to prepare the customizable bootable device so that it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools wipefs util-linux}}
	#: {{Warning\|Do not proceed if you're unsure of device name or if you have valuable data on your USB drive.The instructions in this section use {{Path\|/dev/sda}}. Alter the device name i.e {{Path\|/dev/sda}} as needed. }}		#: {{Warning\|Do not proceed if you're unsure of device name or if you have valuable data on your USB drive.The instructions in this section use {{Path\|/dev/sda}}. Alter the device name i.e {{Path\|/dev/sda}} as needed. }}
	# Run <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your ~~bootable~~ device. Let's say it's /dev/sda for this example, change as needed. Issue the below command to nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/sda:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sda}}		# Run <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your '''customizable boot device'''. Let's say it's /dev/sda for this example, change as needed. Issue the below command to nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/sda:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sda}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it.
	# ~~Figure~~ out where ~~your~~ install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. ~~Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for~~ the install media ~~files and~~ '''/~~dev~~/~~sda1~~''' ~~for~~ the ~~customizable boot device~~:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}		# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], figure out where the install media files are mounted.
			#:{{Tip\| If you run {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment.}}
			# If the install media is mounted at '''/media/cdrom''', issue the command:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}}
			# Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command in an existing Alpine Linux machine: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===

	~~If you do not want to use <Code>Setup-bootable</Code> script or need non-FAT32 partitions, you can manually create a~~ customizable boot device by manually copying Alpine Linux ~~Files~~ from ~~the~~ ISO~~/tarball~~ and ~~install the bootloader to make the device bootable.~~		The '''customizable boot device''' can be created by manually copying Alpine Linux files from both ISO(.iso) and tarballs (.tar.gz files) with a one line tweak (see below).

	~~This method is written for copying files from an Alpine ISO file but also works for Alpine~~ tarballs (.tar.gz files) with a one line tweak (see below).

	# Install some prerequisites. (If you're not currently using Alpine Linux then you probably have these installed already, otherwise you'll have to figure out how to install them.)		# Install some prerequisites. The {{pkg\|syslinux}} is required only for x86_64 and x86. (If you're not currently using Alpine Linux then you probably have these installed already, otherwise you'll have to figure out how to install them.)
	#: {{Cmd\|apk add dosfstools syslinux}}		#: {{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools syslinux}}
	# Set the environment variable 'mydev' to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Device_file device file] name of the USB stick that Alpine Linux is to be installed to:		# Set the environment variable 'mydev' to the [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Device_file device file] name of the USB stick that Alpine Linux is to be installed to:
	#: {{Warning \| BE SURE TO GET THIS RIGHT OR ELSE YOU COULD OVERWRITE THE WRONG DISK! }}		#: {{Warning \| BE SURE TO GET THIS RIGHT OR ELSE YOU COULD OVERWRITE THE WRONG DISK! }}

Prabuanand: placed the Tip related to ARM/Pi at the exact location, where it can be used

2025-09-29T11:49:13Z

placed the Tip related to ARM/Pi at the exact location, where it can be used

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:49, 29 September 2025
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	The Customizable boot device can also be used as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools or serve as an installation media for Alpine Linux [[Installation\|installation]].		The Customizable boot device can also be used as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools or serve as an installation media for Alpine Linux [[Installation\|installation]].

	~~{{Note\|Some of these instructions are exclusively for x86_64 and x86. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}~~

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==
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	# Run <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your bootable device. Let's say it's /dev/sda for this example, change as needed. Issue the below command to nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/sda:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sda}}		# Run <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your bootable device. Let's say it's /dev/sda for this example, change as needed. Issue the below command to nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/sda:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sda}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}		# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}}
			# Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===
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	EOF</nowiki>}}		EOF</nowiki>}}
	# Format the new FAT32 partition with a FAT32 filesystem:		# Format the new FAT32 partition with a FAT32 filesystem:
	#: {{Cmd\|<nowiki>mkdosfs -F32 ${mydev}1</nowiki>}}		#:{{Cmd\|<nowiki>mkdosfs -F32 ${mydev}1</nowiki>}}
			#: {{Tip\|For ARM boards like [[Raspberry Pi]], ignore the next three steps and go to the 9th step related to tarball. Refer [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]] for more information.}}
	# Copy the [https://wiki.syslinux.org/wiki/index.php?title=Mbr syslinux executable boot code] into the bootstrap code area of the MBR boot sector (if you're not currently using Alpine Linux you may need to adjust the path to syslinux's mbr.bin file):		# Copy the [https://wiki.syslinux.org/wiki/index.php?title=Mbr syslinux executable boot code] into the bootstrap code area of the MBR boot sector (if you're not currently using Alpine Linux you may need to adjust the path to syslinux's mbr.bin file):
	#: {{Cmd\|<nowiki>dd bs=440 count=1 conv=notrunc if=/usr/share/syslinux/mbr.bin of=$mydev</nowiki>}}		#: {{Cmd\|<nowiki>dd bs=440 count=1 conv=notrunc if=/usr/share/syslinux/mbr.bin of=$mydev</nowiki>}}

Prabuanand: minor rewording to make the purpose of Customizable boot device easier to understand

2025-09-26T18:33:37Z

minor rewording to make the purpose of Customizable boot device easier to understand

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:33, 26 September 2025
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	This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660.		This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 on USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk.

	~~This~~ allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]] ~~in the customizable boot device~~. ~~It also allows upgrading the~~ kernel modules and firmware~~, that is used to boot the diskless system, with~~ the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.		The Customizable boot device can be used to [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|perform diskless installation]]. In [[Diskless Mode]], this allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]]. The kernel modules and firmware can be updated using the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

			The Customizable boot device can also be used as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools or serve as an installation media for Alpine Linux [[Installation\|installation]].

	{{Note\|Some of these instructions are exclusively for x86_64 and x86. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}		{{Note\|Some of these instructions are exclusively for x86_64 and x86. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}
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	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|Installation Media]], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download]) on an existing Alpine Linux machine.		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|Installation Media]], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download]) on an existing Alpine Linux machine.
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a customizable boot device.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a customizable boot device.

	== Preparing customizable boot device ==		== Preparing customizable boot device ==
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	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}		# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}
	# Once the above steps are complete, [[Installation#Reboot\|reboot]] the system with only the Customizable boot device inserted and follow the steps to [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|complete the diskless installation]]

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===
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	rm /media/$mydevname/*.apkovl.tar.gz		rm /media/$mydevname/*.apkovl.tar.gz
	umount /media/$mydevname</nowiki>}}		umount /media/$mydevname</nowiki>}}
	~~# Follow the steps to [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|complete the diskless installation]].~~

	== Troubleshooting ==		== Troubleshooting ==

Prabuanand: moved the duplicated content related Finishing diskless installation to Diskless Mode page

2025-09-26T07:02:28Z

moved the duplicated content related Finishing diskless installation to Diskless Mode page

@@ Line 1: / Line 1: @@
-This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 and the installation of Alpine Linux in [[Diskless Mode|diskless mode]] on it.
+This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660.
 This allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache|local package cache]] in the customizable boot device. It also allows upgrading the kernel modules and firmware, that is used to boot the diskless system, with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System|update-kernel]] script.
@@ Line 24: / Line 24: @@
 # [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
 # Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files  and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}
-# Once the above steps are complete, [[Installation#Reboot|reboot]] the system with only the Customizable boot device inserted and Proceed to [[#Finishing diskless installation|Finishing diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.
+# Once the above steps are complete, [[Installation#Reboot|reboot]] the system with only the Customizable boot device inserted and follow the steps to [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation|complete the diskless installation]]
 === Manually copying Alpine files ===
@@ Line 76: / Line 76: @@
 rm /media/$mydevname/*.apkovl.tar.gz
 umount /media/$mydevname</nowiki>}}
-# Proceed to [[#Finishing diskless installation|Finishing diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.
+# Follow the steps to [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation|complete the diskless installation]].
 == Troubleshooting ==

Prabuanand: fixed typo, reverted the note

2025-03-28T10:06:14Z

fixed typo, reverted the note

Prabuanand: updated headings, fixed some typo added tar file

2025-03-28T09:37:52Z

updated headings, fixed some typo added tar file

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:37, 28 March 2025
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	This page is about ~~creating~~ customizable boot device ~~for '''[[Diskless Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data Disk Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode Alpine Linux~~ using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660~~. This allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files~~ and [[Diskless Mode~~#Local Package Cache~~\|~~local package cache]] in the customizable boot device. It also allows upgrading the kernel modules and firmware, that is used to boot the~~ diskless ~~system, with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel~~]] ~~script~~.		This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 and the installation of Alpine Linux in '''[[Diskless Mode\|diskless]]''' on it.

	{{Note\|~~These instructions are~~ exclusively for x86_64 and x86. For ARM boards, see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}		This allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]] in the customizable boot device. It also allows upgrading the kernel modules and firmware, that is used to boot the diskless system, with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

			{{Note\|[[#Using setup-bootable\|Using setup-bootable]] is exclusively for x86_64 and x86. [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] from the tarball is more generic. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==

	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|Installation Media]], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> ~~file~~ or an compressed tarball file containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download]) on an existing Alpine Linux machine.		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|Installation Media]], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired Alpine release ([https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Download]) on an existing Alpine Linux machine.
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a customizable boot device.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a customizable boot device.

	== ~~Diskless installation on~~ customizable boot device ==		== Preparing customizable boot device ==

	[[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method to create a directly customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. For other filesystems refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]].		[[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method to create a directly customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. For other filesystems refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]].

Prabuanand: updated the instructions and made device name consistent

2025-03-28T09:22:22Z

updated the instructions and made device name consistent

Show changes

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:31, 5 February 2026
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	# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}		# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/~~sda1~~}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sdXY}}
	# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}		# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}
	# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}		# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:45, 30 September 2025
Line 1:		Line 1:
	This page is about preparing customizable boot device ~~using a writable filesystem~~ i.e~~. non-iso9660 on~~ USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk.		This page is about preparing a directly customizable boot media or '''customizable boot device''' for Alpine Linux, i.e a USB-Stick/CompactFlash/SDCard or SSD/NVMe harddisk based boot device with a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660.

	A ~~directly customizable Alpine Linux boot medium or simply '''~~customizable boot device~~'''~~ is basically an Alpine system in '''[[Diskless_Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data_Disk_Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode installed to (and booting from) a device with a writable filesystem. ~~It allows to also upgrade the kernel with its modules and firmware that is used to boot the system with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.~~		A customizable boot device is basically an Alpine system in '''[[Diskless_Mode\|diskless]]''' or '''[[Data_Disk_Mode\|data]]''' disk-mode installed to (and booting from) a device with a writable filesystem. A customizable boot device allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations as [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] file and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]]. It also allows to upgrade the kernel with its modules and firmware that is used to boot the system with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

	~~When performing [[Diskless_Mode#Finishing_diskless_installation\|diskless installation]],~~ customizable boot device allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations as [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] file and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]].

	~~The Customizable boot device can~~ also be used ~~as a rescue disk by adding necessary tools~~.

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==

	* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> containing the desired [https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Alpine release] ~~on an existing Alpine Linux machine~~.		* An Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], can be CD/DVD/USB or an <code>.iso</code>file like <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> or an compressed tarball file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.tar.gz</code> or <code>.img.gz</code> file like <code>alpine-rpi-{{AlpineLatest}}-aarch64.img.gz</code> containing the desired [https://alpinelinux.org/downloads/ Alpine release].
	* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.		* A device like an USB drive (flash, external HD/SSD/NVMe, card reader, etc.) or a CF "CompactFlash", or SDcard which will be used as a '''customizable boot device'''.

	== Preparing customizable boot device ==		== Preparing customizable boot device ==

	[[~~Alpine_setup_scripts~~#setup-bootable\|~~Setup~~-bootable]] script is the preferred method ~~to create~~ a customizable boot device ~~on a FAT32 filesystem for x86_64 and x86~~. For other filesystems/architectures refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] section.		To create a customizable boot device on a FAT32 filesystem for x86_64 and x86 using [[#Using setup-bootable\|setup-bootable]] script is the preferred method. For [[Raspberry Pi]], using the image file i.e img.gz and following the [[Installation#Preparing installation media\|installation media preparation steps]] with the SD card results in a customizable boot device. For other filesystems/architectures refer [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] section.

	=== Using setup-bootable ===		=== Using setup-bootable ===

	~~Follow the below steps to use the <Code>Setup-bootable</Code> script to create a directly customizable~~ boot device on a FAT32 filesystem. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.		Customizable boot device can be created on a FAT32 filesystem using the [[Alpine_setup_scripts#setup-bootable\|Setup-bootable]] script by following these steps. If you have an existing Alpine Linux machine and <code>iso</code> file, proceed directly to step 2.

	# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.		# Complete the [[Installation\|Installation]] until the [[Installation#Base_configuration\|base configuration]] step by booting from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']]. Perform the initial execution of <Code>setup-alpine</Code> as described in the base configuration step answering "none" to all disk-related questions.
	# Ensure that '''customizable boot device''' is ~~already~~ plugged in~~. Install~~ the necessary tools ~~to prepare the customizable bootable device so that it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later~~:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools ~~wipefs~~ util-linux}}		# Ensure that '''customizable boot device''' is plugged in before installing the necessary tools:{{Cmd\|# apk add dosfstools util-linux}}
	#: {{Warning\|Do not proceed if you're unsure of device name or if you have valuable data on your USB drive.The instructions in this section use {{Path\|/dev/sda}}. Alter the device name i.e {{Path\|/dev/sda}} as needed. }}		#:{{Warning\|Use <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the correct device name for your '''customizable boot device''' and use it instead of {{Path\|/dev/sdX}} used here. If you are unsure, do not proceed, seek [[Alpine Linux:Support\|support]].}}
	~~# Run~~ <Code>lsblk</Code> to identify the device name for your '''customizable boot device'''~~. Let's say~~ it's /dev/~~sda for this example~~, ~~change as needed~~. ~~Issue the below command to~~ nuke EVERYTHING on the disk /dev/~~sda~~:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/~~sda~~}}		# To nuke EVERYTHING on the disk {{Path\|/dev/sdX}}, so it doesn't have weird stuff that affects later, issue the command:{{Cmd\|# wipefs --all /dev/sdX}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] ~~sda1~~ with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it.		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sdXY with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it, or use the following command to use entire disk:{{Cmd\|<nowiki># echo 'type=c, bootable' \| sfdisk /dev/sdX</nowiki>}}
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], figure out where the install media files are mounted.		# If booted from an Alpine Linux [[Installation#Preparing_installation_media\|'''installation media''']], use {{ic\|mount}} command to figure out where the install media files are mounted. A read only('''ro''') mount will appear for '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment and adjust {{Path\|media/cdrom}} in the command :{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sdXY}}
	~~#:{{Tip\| If you run {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a~~ read only('''ro''') mount for ~~something like~~ '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment~~.}}~~		# Alternatively, if you have an existing Alpine Linux machine with <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sdXY}}
	~~# If the install media is mounted at '''/~~media/cdrom~~''', issue~~ the command:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/~~sda1~~}}
	# Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command ~~in an existing Alpine Linux machine~~: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/~~sda1~~}}

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:06, 28 March 2025
Line 1:		Line 1:
	This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 and the installation of Alpine Linux in ~~'''~~[[Diskless Mode\|diskless]]~~'''~~ on it.		This page is about preparing customizable boot device using a writable filesystem i.e. non-iso9660 and the installation of Alpine Linux in [[Diskless Mode\|diskless mode]] on it.

	This allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]] in the customizable boot device. It also allows upgrading the kernel modules and firmware, that is used to boot the diskless system, with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.		This allows <code>[[Alpine_local_backup\|Local Backup Utility]](lbu)</code> utility to store local customizations using [[Diskless Mode#Apkovl\|apkovl]] files and [[Diskless Mode#Local Package Cache\|local package cache]] in the customizable boot device. It also allows upgrading the kernel modules and firmware, that is used to boot the diskless system, with the [[Diskless Mode#Upgrading_a_Diskless_System\|update-kernel]] script.

	{{Note\|~~[[#Using setup-bootable\|Using setup-bootable]] is~~ exclusively for x86_64 and x86~~. [[#Manually copying Alpine files\|Manually copying Alpine files]] from the tarball is more generic~~. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}		{{Note\|Some of these instructions are exclusively for x86_64 and x86. For ARM boards see [[Alpine_on_ARM#Preparing_installation_media\|Alpine on ARM]].}}

	== Requirements ==		== Requirements ==
Line 24:		Line 24:
	# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}		# [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Creating_partitions\|Create a partition]] sda1 with the desired size, set the type to win95 fat, and set the bootable flag on it. [[Setting_up_disks_manually#Formatting_partitions\|Format]] the newly created partition: {{cmd\|# mkfs.vfat /dev/sda1}}
	# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}		# Figure out where your install media files are mounted. if you run a {{ic\|mount}} command, you should see a read only('''ro''') mount for something like '''/media/cdrom''' or '''/media/usb''' or something else, depending on your environment. Let's use '''/media/cdrom''' for the install media files and '''/dev/sda1''' for the customizable boot device:{{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v /media/cdrom /dev/sda1}} Alternatively, if you have <code>.iso</code> file, issue the command: {{Cmd\|# setup-bootable -v <code>alpine-standard-{{AlpineLatest}}-x86_64.iso</code> /dev/sda1}}
	# Once the above steps are complete, [[Installation#Reboot\|reboot]] the system with only the Customizable boot device inserted and Proceed to [[#~~Finshing~~ diskless installation\|~~Finshing~~ diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.		# Once the above steps are complete, [[Installation#Reboot\|reboot]] the system with only the Customizable boot device inserted and Proceed to [[#Finishing diskless installation\|Finishing diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.

	=== Manually copying Alpine files ===		=== Manually copying Alpine files ===
Line 76:		Line 76:
	rm /media/$mydevname/*.apkovl.tar.gz		rm /media/$mydevname/*.apkovl.tar.gz
	umount /media/$mydevname</nowiki>}}		umount /media/$mydevname</nowiki>}}
	# Proceed to [[#~~Finshing~~ diskless installation\|~~Finshing~~ diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.		# Proceed to [[#Finishing diskless installation\|Finishing diskless installation]] section to complete the diskless installation.

	== ~~Finshing~~ diskless installation ==		== Finishing diskless installation ==

	Boot using the customizable boot device i.e previously created Alpine Linux bootable USB medium. Prepare customizable boot device to hold local customizations before running the <code>setup-alpine</Code> script to finish the installation.		Boot using the customizable boot device i.e previously created Alpine Linux bootable USB medium. Prepare customizable boot device to hold local customizations before running the <code>setup-alpine</Code> script to finish the installation.