A desktop environment is defined as a combination of components that makes up a graphical user interface (GUI). Thus in Linux, you can use a mouse and keyboard to operate the Operating System the same way it’s done in Windows and macOS. Such components include things that you see on your monitor including file explorer, applications menu, wallpapers, text editors, toolbars, and desktop widgets. In simple terms, a desktop environment determines how the Solus Linux system looks or feels as you are using it.
Desktop Environment for Solus Linux
- KDE Plasma
- Budgie desktop environment
- GNOME
- MATE
What is KDE?
In this article, we will tackle one of the Solus Linux Desktop environments. KDE is a popular desktop environment that dominates in the world of Linux-based operating systems. KDE is a short form for K Desktop Environment where the letter K means Kool. KDE has proved to be effective for Linux users due to the outstanding benefits it provides.
Benefits of KDE
- Easy to use: Provides a user-friendly interface where new Linux users can flow with it seamlessly.
- Appearance: KDE looks appealing to most Linux users with a modern and elegant appearance
- Free and open source
- Customization: KDE allows you to customize it up to your satisfaction.
- App Widgets
- Fast and high performance
Install KDE Desktop Environment on Solus Linux
As we have seen, the KDE desktop environment portrays a couple of benefits. In order to have an amazing experience with this DE, there is a need to install it on your Solus Operating System
Open your computer’s terminal and type the code below and press the Enter button.
sudo eopkg install -c desktop.kdeDuring the installation process, type YES if asked whether you want extra packages to be installed.
KDE desktop environment will install successfully
Enjoy using it!
Using KDE Desktop Environment on Solus
After KDE DE has been installed on your computer, log out or power off.
Power on your system. On the log-in window, find a setting icon and switch from the previous desktop environment to KDE plasma DE. Then enter the password for Solus Operating System.
KDE Desktop Environment will appear as illustrated below.
Click on the icon on your far left to access the application menu.
Customizing KDE Desktop Environment on Solus
It is possible to change the way KDE DE behaves and looks to suit your taste and preferences.
Theme Changing
On the KDE search bar, type the theme and press the Enter button.
Choose the theme you want and click on Apply to save the changes.
Desktop Wallpaper
If you want to change the wallpaper, right-click on an empty patch on the desktop then select the option on configuring desktop wallpaper.
Choose the wallpaper you want, click on apply, and then OK.
If you choose PubSide wallpaper, your desktop will change its wallpaper as shown below.
Display Settings
When you want to change the way your screen appears in terms of resolution or orientation, search for display configurations and modify the settings to your satisfaction.
Colors
KDE Desktop environment on Solus allows you to choose colors that will appear as you navigate through the system. Search for colors on the application menu and modify them.
Icons
It always feels good when you realize an application at a glance. Changing the icons to your preference allows you to navigate quickly through KDE DE for Solus. Choose the icon that you want and click on apply.
Click apply. You can see the changes that have taken place, especially on the taskbar.
On your taskbar, is possible to open the software center. In that case, you can see the installed software, and search and update programs.
You can also see the files manager folder where the documents will be located.
Conclusion
Solus offers a couple of desktop environments. KDE is a perfect fit for you if you are looking for a fast, elegant, and easy-to-use desktop environment. Follow the above steps to install and enjoy using the KDE desktop on Solus operating system.
Other useful guides:
- Install Cinnamon Desktop Environment on KDE Neon|Kubuntu
- Install Go (Golang) on KDE Neon / Kubuntu
- Install and Use Anydesk on KDE Neon|Kubuntu
- How To Install Node.js on Windows
