XFCE is a lightweight and highly customizable desktop environment known for its speed and low system resource usage. It provides a clean and intuitive user interface while balancing performance and functionality. XFCE includes a suite of applications and utilities that offer a consistent user experience, making it an excellent choice for users looking for a responsive and efficient desktop environment.
Follow the steps outlined in this guide to install the XFCE desktop environment on CentOS Stream 9. This will provide a fast and efficient desktop experience tailored to your needs.
Refresh CentOS Stream 9 Packages Before Xfce Installation
The first order of business is to update and upgrade all existing system packages. This action is significant as it helps maintain the most recent versions of installed packages, ensure compatibility, and minimize potential conflicts with new installations.
Run the following command to refresh your repositories and proceed with any outstanding upgrades:
sudo dnf upgrade --refreshImport EPEL and EPEL Next Repositories for Xfce
Our subsequent action is incorporating the Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux (EPEL) and EPEL Next repositories into our system. The EPEL repository hosts additional and supplementary software packages that are not included in the standard CentOS repositories. In contrast, the EPEL Next repository contains packages intended for the upcoming minor RHEL release.
The following command will facilitate the integration of these repositories:
sudo dnf install \
https://dl.fedoraproject.org/pub/epel/epel-release-latest-9.noarch.rpm \
https://dl.fedoraproject.org/pub/epel/epel-next-release-latest-9.noarch.rpmInstall XFCE on CentOS Stream 9 via DNF Command
With the repositories in place, we can install the XFCE Desktop Environment on CentOS Stream. We will use the dnf command, the default package manager for CentOS, to perform this operation:
sudo dnf --enablerepo=epel,epel-next,crb group install "Xfce"The –enablerepo option guides the command in retrieving the XFCE Desktop Environment packages from the EPEL, EPEL Next, and CRB repositories.
Initiate System Reboot to Complete XFCE Installation
Once the XFCE Desktop Environment is successfully installed, the concluding action is to reboot the system. This crucial step allows the system to initialize the newly installed desktop environment, ensuring its readiness for use upon the next system startup.
sudo rebootSystem Reboot to Complete XFCE Installation
After completing the XFCE Desktop Environment installation, our concluding step involves rebooting the system. This essential measure allows the system to initialize and configure the freshly installed XFCE environment, ensuring it is ready for use upon the system’s next start.
sudo rebootLogin to XFCE on CentOS Stream 9
In the aftermath of the XFCE installation, our next pivotal transition involves logging into the newly installed XFCE environment. Post-installation, when you restart your system, you’ll encounter the user login screen, where the opportunity to select your preferred desktop environment arises.
Navigate to Desktop Environment Options
Once you reach the login screen, your attention should be directed towards a gear-like symbol akin to a settings cogwheel. When interacted with, this icon unveils a list of the different desktop environments currently installed on your system.
Choose XFCE Environment on CentOS Stream
After interacting with the settings cogwheel, you will see the dropdown menu visible. Your next move is to select “XFCE Session.” This action initiates your new session in the XFCE environment, welcoming you to its lightweight, efficient, and highly customizable workspace.
Additional XFCE Commands
Update XFCE on CentOS Stream
Maintaining your XFCE desktop environment in an updated state is paramount. Regular updates bring forth the latest features, improvements, and, most importantly, security patches. Utilizing the Command Line Interface (CLI) becomes highly beneficial in this aspect, especially if you choose to bypass desktop notifications.
To update XFCE and, consequently, all other packages installed on your system, we turn to the dnf package manager. Execute the following command in your terminal:
sudo dnf upgrade --refreshWith this command, you’re prompting the dnf package manager to refresh the package database and upgrade all software packages on your CentOS Stream system. This includes XFCE and any related packages installed from the EPEL and Appstream repositories.
Remove XFCE From CentOS Stream
There might arise scenarios where you decide to try out a different desktop environment or need to uninstall XFCE. The process is uncomplicated; thanks again to the dnf package manager.
To initiate the removal of XFCE and all associated packages, execute the following command in your terminal:
sudo dnf group remove "XFCE"Once the process is finished, a system reboot is necessary. Execute the following command to restart your system:
sudo rebootReselecting Your Default Desktop Environment
You will be directed to the login screen upon rebooting your system after uninstalling XFCE. Here, you will be required to select a default desktop environment. Remember to select one that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Closing Thoughts
With the XFCE desktop environment successfully installed on your CentOS Stream system, you can enjoy a lightweight and responsive user interface. Regularly update your system to ensure you have the latest features and security patches. Enjoy XFCE’s balance of performance and functionality, providing a streamlined and efficient desktop experience.