Home » Fedora » How to Install LXQt on Fedora Linux
How to Install LXQt on Fedora 39/38/37 Linux
Last Updated on by Joshua James
The LXQt desktop environment is a modern, lightweight, and user-friendly alternative to the default GNOME desktop environment on Fedora Linux. Designed for efficiency and performance, LXQt has gained popularity among Fedora users who seek a more streamlined and customizable user experience. In this introduction, we’ll explore the reasons why Fedora users, especially those using GNOME, may want to consider installing the LXQt desktop environment.
Key Benefits of LXQt for Fedora Users:
Lightweight and resource-efficient: LXQt uses fewer system resources than GNOME, making it an excellent choice for users with older or less powerful hardware.
Fast and responsive: Due to its lower resource usage, LXQt offers a snappier and more responsive user experience, even on systems with limited hardware capabilities.
Modular and customizable: LXQt allows users to easily customize their desktop experience by selecting and installing only the components they need, resulting in a clean and personalized workspace.
User-friendly interface: The LXQt desktop environment features a straightforward and intuitive interface, making it accessible for both new and experienced Linux users.
Wide range of applications and utilities: LXQt comes with a variety of pre-installed applications and utilities, providing users with a comprehensive set of tools for their computing needs.
Compatibility with various display managers: LXQt works seamlessly with multiple display managers, such as LightDM and SDDM, enabling users to choose the one that best suits their preferences.
For Fedora users who find the default GNOME desktop environment resource-intensive or seek a more customizable and efficient alternative, the LXQt desktop environment is an excellent choice. The following guide will demonstrate how to install LXQt on Fedora Linux, allowing you to experience its features and benefits firsthand.
Table of Contents
Section 1: Update Fedora OS
Before installing new software packages on your Fedora OS, it’s crucial to update your system with the latest patches and updates. This process enhances system stability and improves security by addressing known issues and vulnerabilities.
Step 1: Update Your Fedora OS
To update your Fedora OS, open the terminal and run the following command:
sudo dnf upgrade --refresh
When you execute this command, the system will ask for your password. After providing the correct password, the system checks for any available updates and upgrades them as needed. The duration of this process depends on the number of updates and the speed of your internet connection, so it may take a few minutes to complete.
Section 2: Install LXQt Desktop Environment
The LXQt desktop environment is a lightweight, fast, and user-friendly alternative to the default GNOME desktop environment. Before installing LXQt, you need to ensure it’s available and understand its packages. This information will help you decide if LXQt is the right choice for your computing needs.
Step 1: Check the Availability of LXQt and Its Packages
To check if LXQt is available and to view the list of packages included in the LXQt group, open the terminal and run the following command:
sudo dnf group info "LXQt Desktop"
Executing this command will provide you with a comprehensive list of all packages in the LXQt group. You can use this information to assess if LXQt includes all the applications and utilities required for your computing needs.
Once you’ve confirmed the availability of LXQt and its packages, you can proceed with the installation process. To install LXQt on your Fedora system, open the terminal and enter the following command:
sudo dnf group install "LXQt Desktop"
This command will download and install the LXQt desktop environment along with all necessary packages and dependencies. After the installation is complete, you must reboot your computer to apply the changes.
Step 4: Install Optional LXQt Packages (Optional)
If you want to install additional packages, such as LXQt Office and Multimedia support groups, you can do so by running the following command:
sudo dnf group install "LXQt Desktop" "LXQt Office" "Multimedia support for LXQt" "Applications for the LXQt Desktop"
Executing this command will install the LXQt desktop environment along with LXQt Office and Multimedia support groups, which include extra applications and utilities that might be useful for your computing needs. Note that these additional packages are optional and may not be required for all users. Make sure to verify the package list to ensure they meet your requirements.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer to Apply Changes
After installing the LXQt desktop environment and any optional packages, it’s crucial to restart your computer to apply the changes and ensure that the new environment is fully functional.
To restart your computer, click on the “Activities” menu in the top left corner of your screen, and select the power icon. Choose the “Restart” option to reboot your system.
Alternatively, you can restart your computer from the terminal by executing the following command:
sudo reboot
This command will immediately reboot your computer, allowing you to quickly apply any changes made during the installation process.
Section 3: Log in to LXQt
After rebooting your computer, you’ll arrive at the login screen. It’s crucial to ensure that the LXQt desktop environment has been set as the default environment for your system before logging in. This step guarantees that you can access all the features and capabilities of LXQt.
Step 1: Verify LXQt as the Default Desktop Environment
To check if LXQt is set as the default desktop environment, click the configuration button next to the login button. This button may appear as a gear icon or as three vertically arranged dots, depending on your Fedora version.
Select the “LXQt Desktop” option from the configuration menu as the desktop environment. Fedora may have another desktop environment selected by default, so it’s essential to double-check and ensure that LXQt is the chosen option.
Step 2: Sign in and Explore LXQt
Once you’ve set LXQt as the default desktop environment, you can sign in to your system and start exploring all the features and functionalities of LXQt. This lightweight desktop environment offers a user-friendly interface and a variety of customizable options to enhance your computing experience.
Section 4: Getting Started with LXQt on Fedora Linux
This section will explore tips and tricks to help you get the most out of the LXQt desktop environment on Fedora Linux. From general tips to customizations, we will provide valuable information to enhance your user experience.
General Tips for LXQt on Fedora
Take advantage of the PCManFM-Qt file manager: The default file manager in LXQt is PCManFM-Qt, a lightweight and feature-rich file manager. Spend some time exploring its features, such as dual-pane view, customizable interface, and built-in support for remote filesystems.
Use the LXQt Configuration Center for system settings: The LXQt Configuration Center is your one-stop-shop for managing system settings. You can access it by clicking on the main menu and navigating to Preferences > LXQt settings > Configuration Center. Here, you’ll find options to customize your desktop, manage power settings, and configure keyboard shortcuts.
Customizing LXQt Desktop Environment
Personalize the LXQt panel: Right-click on the panel and choose Configure Panel to access various customization options. You can change the panel’s position, size, and appearance, as well as add, remove, or rearrange panel widgets.
Change the desktop wallpaper: Right-click on the desktop and select Desktop Preferences to change the wallpaper. You can choose from preinstalled wallpapers or add your own images.
Customize the LXQt theme: Access the LXQt Appearance Configuration tool by going to Preferences > LXQt settings > Appearance. Here, you can change the widget style, icon theme, and color scheme to match your preferences.
Manage startup applications: To control which applications start automatically when you log in, go to Preferences > LXQt settings > Session Settings. In the Autostart tab, you can add, remove, or modify the list of startup applications.
Other Tips and Tricks for LXQt on Fedora
Use keyboard shortcuts for increased productivity: LXQt has a set of default keyboard shortcuts, but you can also create your own. Go to Preferences > LXQt settings > Shortcut Keys to view and edit the list of shortcuts.
Configure display settings: Manage your monitor settings by going to Preferences > LXQt settings > Monitor Settings. Here, you can adjust the resolution, refresh rate, and display orientation.
Add and manage virtual desktops: LXQt supports multiple virtual desktops to help you organize your workspace. Right-click on the desktop pager located in the panel, and select Configure Desktops to add or remove virtual desktops, as well as set their names and layout.
If you decide to uninstall the LXQt desktop environment from your Fedora system, you can do so easily via the command-line terminal. Follow the steps below to remove LXQt and any additional packages you may have installed:
Step 1: Uninstall the LXQt Desktop Environment
To remove LXQt from your Fedora system, execute the following command:
sudo dnf group remove "LXQt Desktop"
Step 2: Remove Supplementary LXQt Packages
If you installed any supplementary LXQt packages, such as the LXQt Office or Multimedia support groups, and wish to remove them as well, execute the following command:
"LXQt Desktop" "LXQt Office" "Multimedia support for LXQt" "Applications for the LXQt Desktop"
Step 3: Clean Up the Remaining Files and Dependencies
After uninstalling the packages, cleaning up any remaining files and dependencies associated with the LXQt desktop environment is good practice. You can accomplish this by executing the following command:
sudo dnf autoremove
This command will remove any residual dependencies and files connected to the LXQt desktop environment, ensuring your Fedora system remains clean and organized.
Conclusion: Installing LXQt on Fedora Linux
In conclusion, installing the LXQt desktop environment on Fedora Linux is a straightforward process that provides users with a lightweight, customizable, and efficient alternative to GNOME or other desktop environments. By following the steps outlined in this guide, Fedora users can enjoy a desktop environment tailored to their preferences and needs, ultimately enhancing their overall computing experience.
Additional Resources and Links
For further information and resources regarding the LXQt desktop environment and Fedora Linux, consider exploring the following official sources:
LXQt Official Website: The official website of the LXQt project provides an overview of the desktop environment, its features, and latest news.
LXQt GitHub Repository: The LXQt GitHub repository hosts the source code for the project, enabling users to contribute or browse through the codebase.
LXQt Wiki: The LXQt Wiki provides in-depth information on various aspects of the LXQt desktop environment, including customization, configuration, and troubleshooting.
