steamos-chroot

Switch to the other A/B partition

$ steamos-chroot [[-p|--partset]] other

$ steamos-chroot [[-d|--disk]] [/dev/sdX] [[-p|--partset]] [A|B]

$ steamos-chroot [[-h|--help]]

steamos-chroot

The `steamos-chroot` command provides a way to enter a chroot environment specifically tailored for SteamOS development or debugging. It creates a contained filesystem environment, isolating changes and preventing them from affecting the host SteamOS system. This is particularly useful for testing new packages, kernel modules, or system configurations without risking instability on the primary SteamOS installation.

The command typically sets up necessary environment variables and mounts required filesystems, such as `/proc`, `/sys`, and `/dev`, to make the chroot function correctly. Think of it as creating a sandboxed copy of your OS inside your OS. This allows you to simulate a SteamOS environment, build and test applications, or perform system administration tasks in isolation. Any changes made within the chroot environment are confined to that environment, and won't persist after exiting the chroot.

This makes `steamos-chroot` an invaluable tool for Steam Deck developers, system administrators, and anyone looking to experiment with SteamOS without impacting their primary system.

Requires root privileges to execute correctly. Ensure proper configuration of the SteamOS chroot environment before use. Incorrect configuration can lead to unexpected behavior or inability to enter the chroot.

The primary purpose of `steamos-chroot` is to facilitate development, testing, and debugging within a controlled SteamOS environment. It is a core element of safe modification and testing for system developers.

When entering the chroot, the command usually performs important filesystem mount operations. It will normally bind mount /proc, /sys and /dev to ensure the basic operation of the chroot.

The `steamos-chroot` command is a specific tool within the SteamOS ecosystem. Its development likely coincided with the development of SteamOS itself. It plays a key role in the testing and development workflow for SteamOS, allowing developers to work on the system in a safe, isolated environment before deploying changes to the main system or to end-users. The exact history of its implementation is likely tied to internal SteamOS development practices.

chroot(8), unshare(1)