Add explanation for rEFInd

[RayBB]

Hello,

I've read the wiki quite thoroughly at this point and it's really great. There's one thing though that is missing and that's more info/context about rEFInd.

The guide for installing it is quite detailed but it leaves me with some questions:

1. What exactly is rEFInd? Just a grub alternative?
2. Everything seems to be working without it. Do I need it? Or do certain setups need it?
3. What are the pros and cons of installing it? Does it make boot faster/slower? Will it make debugging more complicated in the future?
4. In Discord there are mentions not to use it to install Linux because that causes issues but then what is it good for?

For now, I think I've settled to leave it as is but I think it would improve the guide quite a bit to clarify this. Especially for people that are not so deep into the Linux world (yet).

Thanks again for putting together this outstanding resource!

[sharpenedblade]

Some people have boot issues that are fixed by rEFInd, and sometimes it causes boot issues. I don't think we really have investigated the specifics, or at least I haven't seen it written down anywhere. rEFInd is usually used as a replacement for the mac startup manager. Most people don't use rEFInd.

[AdityaGarg8]

rEFInd is a grub alternative. It can directly boot Linux without invoking grub. The advantage over grub is that it can also boot macOS, unlike other Linux Bootloaders. It's a good option for those who wish to have an option to choose the OS they want during every boot. It kinda also seems to be faster than grub but that's just a personal experience.

[RayBB]

@sharpenedblade @AdityaGarg8

What do you think about adding this to the of the rEFInd docs page?

rEFInd is an optional boot manager and alternative to GRUB that provides a graphical interface for selecting your operating system at startup. While most users do not need it, rEFInd is particularly useful for dual-booting as it can directly boot both Linux and macOS, serving as replacement for the native Mac Startup Manager. Some users find it offers a faster and it can occasionally resolve specific boot issues that other loaders struggle with. However, because it can also introduce its own complexities or conflicts depending on your configuration, it is generally recommended only for those who prefer its interface or have a specific technical requirement for it.

[AdityaGarg8]

I'm am neutral here. Let's ask @NoaHimesaka1873 as well.

[asavageiv]

That's a great paragraph imo. I love it.

[NoaHimesaka1873]

I'm am neutral here. Let's ask @NoaHimesaka1873 as well.

I'm for that paragraph. It looks good.
(And I use rEFInd on my T2 Mac. It's great!)

[sharpenedblade]

+1

[AdityaGarg8]

Open a PR then

[RayBB]

PR opened: #673