How to Install XFCE Desktop on Arch Linux?

In this section, we will explore the detailed steps to install XFCE Desktop on Arch Linux. So, follow each step with proper command execution to install XFCE Desktop without any error.

Step 1: Update System

Before proceeding with the installation, it’s essential to ensure that your Arch Linux system is up to date. Open a terminal and execute the following commands:

sudo pacman -Syu

This command synchronizes the package databases and upgrades all installed packages to their latest versions.

Step 2: Install XFCE

Once your system is up to date, you can proceed to install the XFCE desktop environment along with additional packages for a complete experience. Execute the following command in the terminal:

sudo pacman -S xfce4 xfce4-goodies

This command installs the core XFCE components as well as additional goodies such as plugins and utilities that enhance the desktop environment.

Step 3: Install Display Manager (Optional)

A display manager provides a graphical login screen for your system. While not strictly necessary, installing one can enhance the user experience. Popular choices include LightDM and SDDM. To install LightDM, execute the following command:

sudo pacman -S lightdm lightdm-gtk-greeter

During the installation process, you’ll be prompted to choose your default display manager. Select LightDM and proceed with the installation.

Step 4: Enable Display Manager

Once installed, enable the display manager to start automatically at boot. Execute the following command:

sudo systemctl enable lightdm

This command configures LightDM to start on boot.

Step 5: Reboot

To apply the changes and start using XFCE, reboot your system:

sudo reboot

After the reboot, you should be greeted with the XFCE desktop environment.

Step 6: Customize XFCE (Optional)

With so many customization options available, XFCE lets you create a desktop environment that suits your tastes. To modify the desktop’s background, icons, and behavior, right-click on it and choose “Desktop Settings”. Explore the “Settings Manager” as well to personalize the system’s appearance, display, keyboard shortcuts, and other features.

Lightweight and highly configurable, Arch Linux is a popular Linux distribution that prides itself on its flexibility and simplicity. It provides a basic minimal installation, but users can tailor their systems to suit their requirements. XFCE is a well-liked desktop environment for Arch Linux that is well-known for its effectiveness, ease of use, and wide range of customization possibilities. We’ll go over how to install XFCE on Arch Linux in this tutorial, which enables users to set up a stylish and useful desktop environment.