Ubuntu Linux uses the GNOME desktop environment by default. This being the case the default Ubuntu Linux desktop is a slightly modified GNOME desktop. You will notice that there are two panels- a top panel and a bottom panel. These two panels are where all the action takes place in Ubuntu, so let's take a closer look at each.
Top Panel: From left to right you will find your main menu bar, quick links, notification area, and fast user switch applet.
- Main Menu Bar: Similar to the start menu for the Windows OS (operating system), the Main Menu Bar is where you will find all your programs, folders, and system options.
- Quick Links: The Quick Links area of the panel is used for easy access to frequently used applications. By default Ubuntu places your web browser, e-mail client and the Ubuntu help system in this location. You can customize this area by using the right click menu of your applications. For example, if you decided to remove the Ubuntu help system from this area, simply right click its icon and select Remove From Panel. To add applications to the quick links area of the panel browse to the application using the Applications menu, right click the application shortcut, and Add this launcher to panel.
- Notification Area: This area is used for application icons and system notifications. Many applications will place icons in this area, for example the pidgin IM client, allowing quick access when the application is minimized to the notification area as opposed to the window list. This helps keep the number of applications in the window list to a minimum reducing clutter. The Notification Area is also used by Ubuntu to notify you of some system events including but not limited to Ubuntu updates and available wireless networks. You will also find your volume control and clock to the right of the Notification Area. We will talk more about adding applets to the panel near the end of this section.
- Fast User Switch Applet: The Fast User Switching Applet is a simple but useful applet should you share your Ubuntu desktop with more than one person. This applet allows you to switch users, lock the screen, logout, suspend, hibernate, reboot or shutdown your Ubuntu desktop.
The Ultimate Beginners Guide to Ubuntu Linux
If you've decided to make the switch to one of the world's most popular Linux distributions (Ubuntu), but are unsure where to start, you've come to the right place! In this guide I will introduce you to the basics of the Ubuntu Linux OS (operating system).