Running Cinnamon on Linux Mint 12

I have been using Linux Mint since Mint 8 and I love it.  I run Linux Mint 13 in the office and it covers all of my day to day needs.  It is fast, slick and generally a pleasure to use  because it just works.  However, recently there are some small issues with the new desktop which has made me think about tweaking it a bit.

You see when Mint changed the default desktop to Gnome 3 with Mint Gnome Shell Extensions (MGSE) from Gnome 2 I was as sceptical as the rest.  Overtime you get used to the new interface and begin to appreciate the finer points (e.g attaching applications to the favourites bar and showing all open windows at once to name two) but I still miss the ‘traditional’ interface of Gnome 2.  So this is where Cinnamon comes in.  The Mint developers decided that Gnome 3 isn’t really their bag so they have started a project called Cinnamon which uses Gnome 3 technology but looks more like the Gnome 2 desktop.  And yes you can run the current stable release on Mint 12!!

Open up a terminal and type:

sudo apt-get install cinnamon

When prompted enter your password.  When the software has been downloaded and installed you need to logout.  When you see the login screen click on settings and choose Cinnamon from the choice of desktop environments and voila you are now running Cinnamon!!

Word of warning here.  Although Cinnamon is classed as a stable release it is still undergoing development so it might still be rusty around the edges (I have had no issues so far though).  With Cinnamon you lose the top panel (never did like being able to load applications from the top or bottom) but retain the ability to view all open windows on one screen.  You still get the traditional Menu button which allows you to launch you applications and desktop effects come as standard.

So far my first impressions of Cinnamon are positive.  Don’t take my word for it go and have a play.

About the Author

Hi I am Chris the owner of ComTech. I provide IT Support, Laptop repairs and Computer repairs to both personal and business clients in and around Stirling. For a list of what I can offer you why not visit my website www.comtech247.net where you will find my blog, testimonials, services and much more.  Start supporting a local business today so I can start supporting you.

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