# Debian Atomic Terminal Installer

This directory contains a terminal-based installer approach for Debian Atomic, designed as a simpler alternative to the Calamares GUI installer.

## Overview

Instead of using Calamares GUI, this approach:
1. Boots from a minimal ISO in a VM
2. Stays in terminal mode
3. Uses automated scripts to:
   - Partition the drive
   - Create user accounts
   - Transfer the OS to the target drive
   - Make it bootable

## Structure

- `Containerfile` - Builds the minimal bootable image
- `scripts/` - Installation and automation scripts
- `justfile` - Build and test commands
- `config/` - Configuration files for the installer

## Workflow

1. Build minimal bootable ISO
2. Boot ISO in VM (terminal only)
3. Run automated installation script
4. Reboot into installed system

## Advantages

- Simpler than Calamares (no GUI dependencies)
- More reliable (fewer moving parts)
- Easier to debug and customize
- Consistent with atomic principles
- Can be fully automated for testing

## Usage

```bash
# Build the installer
just build

# Create bootable ISO
just create-iso

# Test in VM
just test-vm
``` 