On the CAE Linux computers we support a number of different Desktop Environments. These environments appear cosmetically different from each other, but all have the same basic functionality. Choosing which one to use comes down to a matter of personal preference.

You can select your Desktop Environment in the login window as follows:

Linux:

Before entering your username and password, select Session and then select the session name.

When you login, linux will ask you whether you want the choice to be permanent or not.

Xfce

Xfce is a lightweight desktop environment designed for those who want a simple, efficient desktop which is nevertheless easy to use and configure. Designed for productivity, it loads and executes applications fast, while conserving system resources.

This is the CAE default environment.

GNOME

GNOME is a user-friendly desktop designed for ease of use and ease of configuration. GNOME includes a panel (for starting applications and displaying status), a desktop (where data and applications can be placed), a set of standard desktop tools and applications, and a set of conventions that make it easy for applications to cooperate and be consistent with each other. Users of other operating systems or environments should feel right at home using the powerful graphics-driven environment that GNOME provides.

Fvwm, PWM3, Ion3

While not strictly desktop environments, these window managers are extremely lightweight and customizable. For this reason, many power-users prefer these over the mainstream desktop environments.