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Configuration

MATE Desktop offers extensive customization options through the Control Center and various configuration tools.

MATE Control Center

Access the Control Center from the menu: System → Control Center

Appearance

Configure the look and feel of your desktop:

  • Theme - GTK+ and window border themes
  • Background - Desktop wallpaper settings
  • Fonts - System font preferences
  • Interface - Icon themes and toolbar styles

Hardware

  • Displays - Monitor configuration and resolution
  • Keyboard - Layout and shortcuts
  • Mouse - Pointer speed and button configuration
  • Power Management - Battery and power settings

Personal

  • About Me - User information
  • Preferred Applications - Default applications
  • Startup Applications - Programs that run at login

Panel Configuration

Right-click on any panel to access configuration options:

  • Add or remove panels
  • Add applets (clock, system monitor, launchers)
  • Change panel position and size
  • Configure auto-hide behavior

Keyboard Shortcuts

Customize keyboard shortcuts in System → Preferences → Keyboard Shortcuts:

ActionDefault Shortcut
Open TerminalCtrl+Alt+T
Show DesktopCtrl+Alt+D
Lock ScreenCtrl+Alt+L
Window SwitcherAlt+Tab

Caja File Manager Settings

Configure Caja through Edit → Preferences:

  • Views (icon, list, compact)
  • Behavior (single or double click)
  • Display options
  • Preview settings
Last updated on • mbkma