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Discussion on: Replace operating system shell/explorer on Linux and Apple systems.

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codemouse92 profile image
Jason C. McDonald • Edited

Linux is built quite differently from Windows. It isn't just a matter of "replacing" a binary file, as you'd be liable to completely break something.

What you are literally describing is creating your own desktop environment. This is no easy task, and is considerably beyond my own experience level. You will need to have a deep understanding of Linux in general before you undertake this. Even learning aside, understand that you are looking at years of dedicated effort to achieve your goal.

Now, again, if you only want to create a file browser, that's a little simpler, and probably fairly easily achievable. You might also fork an existing desktop environment, or create Add-Ons for extensible DEs, such as GNOME, MATE, or Cinnamon.

As to how to switch things out on Linux, there are a ton of tutorials. DuckDuckGo for 'em.

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jochemstoel profile image
Jochem Stoel

You are right. I am literally describing creating a desktop environment. I already did that actually, but for Windows. Since the application can be compiled for all three platforms I figured it can also replace the desktop environment on all three platforms too.