Xfce is the default desktop enviornment for Xubuntu and just like KDE (from Kubuntu) it can be installed from the Synaptic Package Manager or using a Terminal command line. I will show you how to install Xfce using the command line in a Terminal window.
Xfce is a lightweight desktop environment for unix-like operating systems. It aims to be fast and low on system resources, while still being visually appealing and user friendly. Xfce embodies the traditional UNIX philosophy of modularity and re-usability. It consists of a number of components that provide the full functionality one can expect of a modern desktop environment. Xfce Homepage
To install Xfce open a Terminal window (Applications -> Accessories -> Terminal) and copy+paste the following line:
sudo apt-get install xfce4
The Xfce Goodies Project includes additional software and artwork that are related to the Xfce desktop, but not part of the official release. I didn’t add the install goodies in the same command line with Xfce because i like to install software when i need it. When installing the Xfce goodies you will install a lot of extra programs you probably don’t need. To install the Xfce goodies copy+paste the following line:
sudo apt-get install xfce4-goodies
When installed log out and select your user name then click on Change Session (bottom panel) and change it to Xfce Session and log in again.
For Xfce goodies project visit: xfce Goodies Poject
For Xfce themes and other stuff visit: xfce-look.org
why not just use “sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop” and the whole xubuntu experience?
I did a minimal install for Xfce instead of the xubuntu-desktop because i only wanted Xfce and when installing xubuntu-desktop you will install more then just Xfce. Besides installing Xfce you will install xubuntu’s default applications and there is a change that when you remove xubuntu some applications won’t be removed.
Perfect timing. I was looking for a post like this. My old dimension 4600 is just too darn slow with gnome desktop in 10.10. Thanks.
-Desktop installs various other things the user may not need or require. For example “chromium” browser.
Indeed, trial and error is the key in Ubuntu. If you dont like it, you can remove it, and try something else. Thats why its so beautiful!