What is a Desktop Environment(DE)
A Desktop Environment(DE) is a graphical user interface that provides a visual way for users to interact with their computer's operating system. Desktop environments aim to simplify the user experience by providing a consistent and intuitive interface, making it easier for users to navigate and manage their system. They often include features like virtual desktops, task switching, and system settings, which help users organize their work and customize their environment to suit their preferences.
Why install KDE Plasma
KDE Plasma is a highly customizable desktop environment developed by the KDE community for Unix-like operating systems, including various Linux distributions. It offers a visually appealing interface that can be tailored to individual user preferences, allowing for extensive modifications in layout, themes, and functionality.
Key features include support for virtual desktops, a variety of widgets, and a flexible panel system that enables users to create a personalized workspace. Plasma's architecture allows for the integration of various applets and tools, enhancing user productivity and experience. The environment is designed to be both powerful and user-friendly, making it suitable for a wide range of users, from beginners to advanced enthusiasts.
My experience with KDE Plasma
I have been using the KDE Plasma Desktop Environment for years now, and as a perfectionist, I truly appreciate the ability to customize nearly every aspect of it. From visual aesthetics like themes and wallpapers to functional elements such as keybindings, the level of personalization enhances my enjoyment every time I boot up my PC, whether I'm working or just casually browsing. This flexibility allows me to create a workspace that perfectly aligns with my preferences and workflow, making KDE Plasma a standout choice for any user seeking a tailored work environment.
Getting Started with KDE Plasma
The simplest way to begin your journey with the KDE Plasma desktop environment is by installing the KDE Neon Linux distribution. However, if you're feeling adventurous, you can also install KDE Plasma alongside Arch Linux.
If you haven't yet installed Arch Linux, I recommend checking out the guide I wrote recently, which provides detailed instructions on how to set it up.
Installing the Plasma Desktop Environment
Now that you have installed Arch Linux, it's a good idea to update the libraries, especially if you installed it some time ago. To do so, run the following command:
sudo pacman -Syu
This command will synchronize the package databases and upgrade all installed packages on your system to their latest versions.
After updating the libraries, you can proceed to install the KDE Plasma desktop environment. To do this, run the following command:
sudo pacman -S plasma kde-applications sddm
This command will install the KDE Plasma DE along with a selection of KDE applications and a Display Manager(sddm). Once the installation is complete, make sure to enable the Simple Desktop Display Manager(SDDM) to manage your login sessions:
sudo systemctl enable sddm
SDDM supports both X and Wayland sessions, making it easy for you to choose between the two. By default, both X and Wayland sessions are installed when you install Plasma, with Wayland being the default option as of a few months ago. While Wayland still has a few bugs, they are not as severe as they were previously. Therefore, I choose Wayland as my default display server protocol on Plasma.
After enabling SDDM, you will need to reboot your system to apply the changes and see the desktop environment you've just installed. To do this, simply type the following command into the terminal:
reboot
Now, you should be greeted by the Plasma login screen, which you can customize to your liking later. Select the user you wish to log in as, enter your password, and you will be taken to the Plasma desktop environment.
Enjoy your new setup!
In the next guide, I will walk you through the process of installing the NVIDIA drivers on Arch Linux.