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Set Up WiFi from Terminal in Arch Linux

This guide explains how to connect to WiFi in Arch Linux entirely from the terminal, especially useful on fresh installations, headless setups, or minimal environments.

Tools You Can Use

Tool Availability Recommended For
iwctl Default on Arch ISO Simple connections (iwd users)
nmcli NetworkManager Full-feature WiFi & config
wifi-menu netctl (deprecated) Legacy, less preferred

1. Using iwctl (iwd - Internet Wireless Daemon)

This is the recommended method during Arch installation or for minimal setups without NetworkManager.

Step-by-step

  1. Run iwctl:

    iwctl

  2. Inside the shell, find your wireless device:

    device list

  3. Start a scan:

    station wlan0 scan

  4. Then list networks:

    station wlan0 get-networks

    (Replace wlan0 with your actual wireless interface)

  5. Connect to WiFi:

    station wlan0 connect YourNetworkName

    You'll be prompted for the WiFi password.

  6. Exit:

    exit

Tip

Test with:

ping archlinux.org

2. Using nmcli (NetworkManager CLI)

Recommended post-installation if you’re using a desktop environment or want persistent WiFi setup.

First, install and enable NetworkManager

sudo pacman -S networkmanager
sudo systemctl enable NetworkManager
sudo systemctl start NetworkManager

Scan & Connect

  1. See your available interfaces:

    nmcli device

  2. Scan for networks:

    nmcli device wifi rescan
nmcli device wifi list

  3. Connect:

    nmcli device wifi connect "<SSID>" password "<password>"

    You’re connected! 🎉

Auto Connect Next Boot

Once connected, it will auto-connect every reboot unless disabled.

3. (Optional) Using wifi-menu (Legacy - netctl)

You can use wifi-menu if you're using netctl but it's deprecated. Use only if nothing else is available.

Setup Steps

  1. Install dialog:

    sudo pacman -S dialog

  2. Use wifi-menu:

    sudo wifi-menu

  3. Select your network and enter the password.

  4. Enable auto-connect (Optional):

    sudo netctl enable <profile_name>

This method is outdated and not recommended for long-term usage.

Verify Network Connectivity

Try pinging a website:

ping archlinux.org

Press Ctrl + C to stop the ping.

Common Troubleshooting

NetworkManager not detecting WiFi?

  • Ensure services are running:
sudo systemctl start NetworkManager
sudo systemctl enable NetworkManager
  • Reboot if needed.

Wireless Interface not detected?

Check your interface list:

ip link

No wlan0 or similar?

  • Run:
lspci | grep -i network
  • Or for USB adapter:
lsusb

Make sure the correct drivers are installed.

References

TL;DR Quick Connect using iwctl

iwctl
device list
station wlan0 scan
station wlan0 get-networks
station wlan0 connect YourSSID