If you’re looking to install the Cinnamon desktop environment on Ubuntu without all the extra software that typically comes bundled, this guide is for you. It covers the essential steps and commands needed to set up Cinnamon with a minimal footprint, ideal for users wanting a lightweight, clean desktop or those who prefer to customize their system from the ground up.
1. Update Your System Before Installation
Before installing Cinnamon, it’s important to update your Ubuntu system to ensure all packages and repositories are current. Running sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade refreshes package lists and applies any available upgrades, preventing conflicts during Cinnamon installation. This step helps avoid issues caused by outdated dependencies.
2. Add the Official Cinnamon PPA (Optional but Recommended)
Ubuntu’s default repositories include Cinnamon, but they might not have the latest stable version. Adding the official Linux Mint PPA (ppa:embrosyn/cinnamon) can provide a more recent Cinnamon release. Use sudo add-apt-repository ppa:embrosyn/cinnamon followed by sudo apt update to enable this source, ensuring you get the freshest features and fixes.
3. Install the Minimal Cinnamon Core Package
Instead of installing cinnamon-desktop-environment, which pulls in many applications, use the lighter cinnamon-core package. This package contains the essential components of Cinnamon without additional apps like file managers or media players. Install it via sudo apt install cinnamon-core to keep your system lean.
4. Avoid Installing Extra Cinnamon Applets and Extensions
Many Cinnamon applets and extensions come bundled with the full desktop environment package. By sticking to cinnamon-core, you avoid these extras by default. If you want specific applets later, you can install them individually from the Cinnamon Spices website or via apt, giving you control over what’s included.
5. Set Cinnamon as the Default Desktop Environment
After installation, you can select Cinnamon at the login screen by clicking the gear icon or session menu and choosing Cinnamon. This ensures your user session launches Cinnamon instead of GNOME or another desktop. You may also configure your display manager (like GDM or LightDM) to default to Cinnamon for seamless startup.
6. Remove Unwanted Packages from Previous Desktop Environments
If you previously used GNOME or another desktop, it’s a good idea to remove unnecessary packages to save space and reduce clutter. Commands like sudo apt purge ubuntu-desktop gnome-shell help clean up. Be cautious to avoid removing essential system packages, and always back up data before making large changes.
7. Customize Cinnamon Settings for Performance
Once Cinnamon is running, access System Settings to disable animations and effects if you want a lighter experience. Turning off desktop effects reduces CPU and GPU load, which is beneficial on older hardware. You can also adjust startup applications to prevent unnecessary services from running, further optimizing performance.
8. Install a Lightweight Window Manager or Terminal Emulator (Optional)
To complement a minimal Cinnamon install, consider adding lightweight tools like the xfce4-terminal or the openbox window manager for specific workflows. While Cinnamon includes its own window manager (Muffin), some users prefer alternatives for scripting or resource savings. Install these selectively to maintain minimalism.
9. Manage Dependencies Using Apt-Get’s No-Install-Recommends Flag
When installing Cinnamon or related packages, use sudo apt install --no-install-recommends cinnamon-core to avoid pulling in recommended but non-essential packages. This flag helps keep the installation minimal by only including required dependencies. It’s a useful option for advanced users aiming to control package bloat.
10. Keep Cinnamon Updated and Monitor System Logs
Regularly update Cinnamon and system packages with sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade to maintain security and stability. Additionally, monitor logs in /var/log and use journalctl to troubleshoot any issues related to Cinnamon or system services. Staying proactive helps maintain a smooth minimal desktop environment.
How to Choose
Choosing how to install Cinnamon minimally on Ubuntu depends on your priorities: whether you want bleeding-edge features, absolute minimalism, or ease of use. If you prefer stability and fewer updates, the default Ubuntu repositories suffice. For the latest Cinnamon versions, the Embrosyn PPA is better. Also, consider whether you want to manage individual applets and extensions yourself or prefer a more ready-to-use setup. Your hardware capabilities and familiarity with package management influence how aggressive you can be about stripping down packages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the difference between cinnamon-core and cinnamon-desktop-environment?
cinnamon-core includes only the essential Cinnamon components, while cinnamon-desktop-environment bundles many additional apps and utilities.
Q: Can I install Cinnamon without removing GNOME?
Yes, you can install Cinnamon alongside GNOME and switch between them at login without uninstalling GNOME.
Q: Is Cinnamon resource-heavy compared to other desktops?
Cinnamon is moderately lightweight but uses more resources than ultra-minimal desktops like LXDE or Openbox. Using cinnamon-core and disabling effects reduces its footprint.
Q: How do I uninstall Cinnamon completely?
Use sudo apt purge cinnamon-core and then remove any leftover configuration files manually if needed.
Q: Will adding the Embrosyn PPA affect system stability?
Adding third-party PPAs can introduce instability if packages conflict, but Embrosyn’s Cinnamon PPA is well-maintained and generally safe on supported Ubuntu versions.
Q: How do I add specific Cinnamon applets after minimal install?
Install them individually via apt or download from the Cinnamon Spices repository and add them through System Settings.
Final Thoughts
Installing Cinnamon on Ubuntu with minimal packages is straightforward if you focus on the core components and avoid installing the full desktop environment package. By updating the system, optionally adding a trusted PPA, and carefully selecting packages, you can enjoy a clean, efficient Cinnamon desktop tailored to your needs. Customizing settings and managing dependencies thoughtfully will help maintain a fast, responsive system without unnecessary software bloat.
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