How to Install Xfce on Debian 12

Linux distributions like Debian 12 were originally limited to the command-line interface, and their use was limited to those with sound knowledge of command execution. However, with the introduction of different desktop environments for Linux distributions, the number of users has drastically increased.

Since most people use Windows and MacOS, the Linux-based desktop environment interface can be transformed into Windows and Mac on Linux. Xfce’s lightweight design and extensive customization options make it one of the most popular desktop environments. We will explore all the possible ways to install Xfce on Debian 12 in this blog post.

Step 1: Update your system

Before we begin the installation, ensuring your system is up-to-date is crucial. Open a terminal window and run the following command:

# apt update
# apt upgrade

Step 2: Install Xfce Desktop Environment

Now, let’s install the core Xfce packages and some additional goodies:

# apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies

The xfce4 package installs the core Xfce desktop environment, while xfce4-goodies provides additional applications and utilities commonly used with Xfce.

Step 3: Configure Display Manager (Optional)

By default, Debian might not have a graphical login manager installed. If you prefer a graphical login screen instead of logging in directly through the console, you can install a display manager like LightDM:

# apt install lightdm

Step 4: Reboot your system

Once the installation is complete, restart your system to apply the changes:

# reboot

Step 5: Log in to Xfce Desktop

After rebooting, you should see a login screen. From the list of available sessions, choose “Xfce Session” instead of the default “Default Xsession.” The “Xfce Session” option will direct your system to start the XFCE desktop environment upon login, thus allowing you to experience the lightweight and customizable features that XFCE offers.

This procedure ensures that you log into the correct environment and are all set to leverage the features of XFCE. Remember, this selection is not permanent; you can switch between different desktop sessions from the login screen anytime you reboot your system. The interface of the Xfce session will look like this as in the image below:

Now you will see your Xfce desktop environment on Debian 12.

Remove XFCE

In certain situations, you may decide to uninstall XFCE. You might want to try a different desktop environment or revert to your previous setup. The command to purge XFCE and its associated files is:

# apt autoremove '^xfce' task-xfce-desktop --purge

This command will remove XFCE and any related files, returning your desktop environment to its prior state.

Additional Tips

Explore Xfce settings

Xfce offers a wide range of customization options. You can access the settings from the panel menu and personalize the desktop to your liking.

Install additional applications

While Xfce provides essential tools, you might want to install additional applications like a web browser, file archiver, or office suite. Use the built-in software center or the apt command-line package manager to install them.

Conclusion

With just a few commands, you’ve transformed your Debian system into a lean machine with the lightweight Xfce desktop.

Now you can enjoy a faster and more responsive computing experience, along with the extensive customization options Xfce offers.