How to make Xfce look like almost any desktop you want

You can change your Linux desktop's look and feel to mimic other operating systems in a few clicks.

Xfce, a lightweight Linux desktop environment with a 30-year history, can be configured to emulate the appearance and functionality of various other operating systems through an optional tool called Panel Profiles. This tool allows users to switch between predefined desktop layouts, such as those resembling Windows versions, macOS, or Ubuntu Unity, with minimal effort and without needing to log out. While other desktop environments like KDE Plasma offer similar customization, Xfce's Panel Profiles simplifies the process significantly by automating most of the configuration. The article details how to install Panel Profiles, which requires the Python psutil module on some distributions, and outlines several available profiles including "Cupertino" for a macOS-like feel and "Unity" for Ubuntu Unity emulation. The second part of the workshop will cover more advanced under-the-hood reconfigurations for unconventional layouts.

Panel Profiles offers a significant advantage for users seeking to personalize their Xfce experience without deep technical knowledge. Unlike KDE Plasma, which requires extensive manual configuration across numerous settings, Xfce's approach democratizes desktop customization. This makes Xfce a more accessible and adaptable platform, appealing to users who value both lightweight performance and diverse aesthetic options.

This feature's ability to transform Xfce into interfaces like macOS or Windows Unity without requiring users to switch distributions or undertake complex manual setups is noteworthy. It broadens Xfce's appeal beyond its traditional user base, potentially attracting individuals who are accustomed to other operating systems but prefer a more resource-efficient Linux environment.