Install Xfce on Ubuntu | Xubuntu Setup Guide

Installing Xfce (Xubuntu) on Ubuntu Linux

The standard Ubuntu distribution features the Gnome desktop environment. However, installing an alternative window manager is a straightforward process.

We have previously detailed the installation of KDE, resulting in Kubuntu, in a separate guide.

Introducing Xubuntu and Xfce

Xubuntu represents a lightweight iteration of Ubuntu, utilizing the Xfce window manager. According to its official website, Xfce is designed as a lightweight desktop environment suitable for a variety of *NIX-based operating systems.

Installation Procedure

Begin the installation by opening a terminal window. Then, execute the following command:

sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop

The system will request your user password. Following password entry, you’ll be asked to confirm the installation; simply press Enter to proceed.

Once the installation is complete, a logout or system reboot is necessary.

Selecting Xfce at Login

Upon reaching the login screen, locate and click the "Options" button, typically found in the lower-left corner.

This action will present a selection of available window managers.

Choose Xfce from the list and then proceed to log in.

The Xfce Desktop Environment

The Xfce desktop shares visual similarities with Gnome, but it omits many of the more elaborate features and visual effects.

It provides a streamlined and resource-efficient user experience.

Further explorations of different window managers will be published in future articles.