How to Install and Configure Xfce on Arch Linux

Arch Linux is known for its simplicity, flexibility, and rolling-release model. However, it does not come with a graphical desktop environment by default, allowing users to build their systems from the ground up. One of the most popular choices for a lightweight yet feature-rich desktop environment is Xfce. It’s fast, stable, and consumes minimal system resources—making it ideal for older hardware or users who prefer a snappy experience.

In this guide, we will walk through the complete process of installing and configuring Xfce on Arch Linux, including system preparation, display manager setup, basic customization, and tips for an optimal experience.

Prerequisites

Before installing Xfce, ensure you have:

• A working Arch Linux installation (base system)
• Internet connectivity
• A user with sudo privileges (or use the root account)

If you haven’t installed Arch Linux yet, consider reading the Arch installation guide first or refer to a dedicated article on installing Arch in UEFI mode.

Update Your System

Always begin by synchronizing your system with the latest packages from the Arch repositories:

sudo pacman -Syu

This ensures all system packages and dependencies are current, reducing compatibility issues during installation.

Install Xorg Display Server

Xfce, like other desktop environments, requires a display server. Arch uses Xorg, which you can install using:

sudo pacman -S xorg

This command installs the core Xorg packages, input drivers, and utilities.

If you are using a laptop, it’s also a good idea to install input and video drivers:

sudo pacman -S xf86-input-libinput mesa

You may also need GPU-specific drivers. For example:

• Intel GPU: xf86-video-intel
• AMD GPU: xf86-video-amdgpu
• NVIDIA GPU: nvidia (or nvidia-dkms for broader compatibility)

Choose the one appropriate for your system.

Install Xfce and Xfce4 Goodies

Xfce is modular and can be installed as a minimal package or with additional utilities.

To install the core Xfce desktop environment:

sudo pacman -S xfce4

To enhance the experience with extra tools and plugins, also install the xfce4-goodies package:

sudo pacman -S xfce4-goodies

This package includes helpful extras such as:

• Task manager
• Panel plugins
• Screen savers
• File system mounter

It’s recommended for a complete desktop experience.

Install a Display Manager (LightDM)

You can start the Xfce desktop environment manually using startx, but it’s more convenient to use a display manager. A popular lightweight choice is LightDM, which pairs well with Xfce.

Install LightDM and a greeter (graphical login interface):

sudo pacman -S lightdm lightdm-gtk-greeter lightdm-gtk-greeter-settings

You can use lightdm-gtk-greeter-settings to customize the look of the login screen later.

Enable and Start the Display Manager

Once LightDM is installed, enable it to start on boot:

sudo systemctl enable lightdm.service

You can start it immediately with:

sudo systemctl start lightdm.service

If all is well, you should be greeted with a graphical login screen. Log in to your user account, and Xfce should load automatically.

Initial Login and Configuration

Upon first login, Xfce may prompt you to choose between a default configuration or an empty panel. Choose the default setup if you’re unfamiliar with customization—it provides a good starting point.

From here, you can explore:

• Panel settings: Right-click the panel → Panel → Panel Preferences
• Appearance: Settings Manager → Appearance
• Window Manager: Settings Manager → Window Manager
• Workspaces: Configure multiple virtual desktops

Essential Post-Installation Tweaks

Here are some useful tweaks to enhance your Xfce experience:

1. Set a Preferred Terminal Emulator

If Xfce’s terminal isn’t launching correctly, install a terminal:

sudo pacman -S xfce4-terminal

Then set it as the default from the Settings Manager.

2. Install a File Manager

Xfce comes with Thunar, a lightweight and fast file manager:

sudo pacman -S thunar gvfs

Install gvfs for mounting USB drives, network shares, and other filesystem integrations.

3. Enable Compositor for Smooth Effects

To enable window transparency and shadows:

• Go to Settings → Window Manager Tweaks → Compositor tab
• Enable compositor and configure settings as you like

This enhances the visual appeal without much resource consumption.

4. Set Default Applications

Navigate to:

Settings Manager → Preferred Applications

Set your default browser, email client, terminal, and file manager.

5. Automount External Drives

Install udisks2 and make sure your user belongs to the storage group:

sudo pacman -S udisks2
sudo usermod -aG storage your_username

Log out and log back in for changes to take effect.

Performance Tips for Xfce

Though Xfce is already light, here are tips to make it even faster:

Disable Unused Services

Use systemctl to disable unnecessary services:

systemctl list-unit-files --state=enabled

Disable any services you don’t use, such as bluetooth.service, if not needed.

Use a Lightweight Web Browser

Consider using midori, qutebrowser, or firefox with performance tweaks instead of heavier alternatives like Chromium.

Reduce Panel Plugins

Too many panel applets can slow down the system. Keep it minimal with only essential indicators.

Manage Startup Applications

Go to Settings Manager → Session and Startup → Application Autostart
Disable any startup applications you don’t need.

Optional: Manually Start Xfce Without a Display Manager

If you prefer not to use LightDM, you can start Xfce manually:

1. Install xorg-xinit:

   sudo pacman -S xorg-xinit
   

2. Create or edit the ~/.xinitrc file and add:

   exec startxfce4
   

3. Start Xfce by typing:

   startx
   

This method avoids the overhead of a display manager and gives you more control over the boot process.

Conclusion

Xfce is an excellent choice for Arch Linux users who want a responsive and lightweight desktop environment without sacrificing usability or features. In this guide, we covered the entire process from preparing your system to installing Xfce, configuring a display manager, and fine-tuning your environment for performance and aesthetics.

Because Arch Linux gives you full control, you’re free to extend your Xfce setup with tools like Conky, Docky, or additional panel plugins. Whether you’re reviving an older machine or just prefer a snappy, minimal interface, Xfce on Arch Linux offers a balanced and customizable desktop experience.