Installing a new desktop environment on your Debian GNU/Linux system can significantly enhance your user experience by offering a fresh look, improved functionality, and additional applications. One popular choice among Linux users is the XFCE desktop environment. XFCE provides a lightweight, yet fully functional desktop experience, ideal for users with older hardware or those who prefer a minimalist desktop. This guide will walk you through the process of installing the XFCE desktop environment on a Debian GNU/Linux system.
In this tutorial you will learn:
- How to update your system to ensure compatibility and security
- Steps to install the XFCE desktop environment and LightDM desktop manager
- How to reboot your system to apply changes
- Instructions for selecting XFCE as your default desktop environment
Category | Requirements, Conventions or Software Version Used |
---|---|
System | Debian-based Linux Distribution |
Software | XFCE desktop environment, LightDM |
Other | Internet connection for downloading packages |
Conventions | # – requires given linux commands to be executed with root privileges either directly as a root user or by use of sudo command$ – requires given linux commands to be executed as a regular non-privileged user |
Installing XFCE Desktop on Debian GNU/Linux
Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to understand why you’re performing each step and what it entails. This ensures a smooth installation process and helps you troubleshoot any issues that might arise.
- Update Your System: Keeping your system updated is crucial for security, compatibility, and performance. This step ensures that all your system packages are up to date before installing new software.
# apt update # apt upgrade
This command updates the list of available packages and their versions, and then installs the latest versions of all packages currently installed on your system.
- Install XFCE Desktop and LightDM Desktop Manager: XFCE is known for its simplicity and light resource usage, making it an excellent choice for older hardware. LightDM is a display manager that manages user sessions and provides a graphical login interface.
# apt install xfce4-goodies xfce4 lightdm
During the installation, you will be prompted to choose LightDM as your default desktop manager. Selecting LightDM integrates it with the XFCE desktop, providing a seamless user experience.
- Reboot System: Once the installation is completed, rebooting your system applies the changes and initializes the new desktop environment.
# reboot
This command safely restarts your computer, allowing you to proceed with setting up XFCE as your default desktop. -
: After rebooting, you’ll reach the login screen. Here, you can select XFCE from the session options, setting it as your default desktop environment.
- Log into Your XFCE Desktop: Enter your username and password on the login screen to access your new XFCE desktop environment on Debian. Enjoy the clean, efficient workspace XFCE provides!
Conclusion
By following these steps, you’ve successfully installed the XFCE desktop environment on your GNU/Debian Linux system. XFCE offers a combination of lightweight performance and aesthetic appeal, making it a great choice for both new and experienced Linux users. Enjoy exploring your new desktop environment!