Red Hat Linux includes a powerful graphical desktop environment where you can
easily access your applications, files, and system resources. Both new and
experienced users will be able to take full advantage of their Red Hat Linux
system using the graphical desktop.
This chapter covers the fundamentals of the desktop and how you can
customize it for your needs.
Using the Desktop
Your first view of the graphical desktop will look something like Figure 2-1.
The graphical desktop gives you access to the applications and
system settings on your computer. You will notice that it offers three
main tools to make use of the applications on your system: panel icons,
desktop icons, and menu systems.
The long bar across the bottom of the desktop is the
panel. The panel contains application launchers,
status indicators, and small applications called
applets that let you control sound volume, switch
workspaces, and indicates the status of your system.
The icons elsewhere on the desktop can be file folders, application
launchers, and removable devices such as CD-ROM and diskettes when they
have been mounted. To open a folder or launch an application,
double-click on its icon.
The menu systems can be found by clicking on the button. They can also be found by double-clicking on the
Start Here icon located on the desktop and then
clicking the Applications icon.
The desktop works in the manner you might expect it to when working
with other operating systems. You can drag and drop files and
application icons to areas that are easily accessible. You can add new
icons for files and applications to the desktop, panel, and file
manager. You can change the appearance of most of the tools and
applications, as well as changing system settings with provided
configuration tools.
