Chapter 5. The X Window System

Table of Contents
5.1. Synopsis
5.2. Terminology
5.3. Installing Xorg
5.4. Xorg Configuration
5.5. Using Fonts in Xorg
5.6. The X Display Manager
5.7. Desktop Environments
5.8. Installing Compiz Fusion
5.9. Troubleshooting

5.1. Synopsis

An installation of FreeBSD using bsdinstall does not automatically install a graphical user interface. This chapter describes how to install and configure Xorg, which provides the open source X Window System used to provide a graphical environment. It then describes how to find and install a desktop environment or window manager.

Note:

Users who prefer an installation method that automatically configures the Xorg should refer to FuryBSD, GhostBSD or MidnightBSD.

For more information on the video hardware that Xorg supports, refer to the x.org website.

After reading this chapter, you will know:

  • The various components of the X Window System, and how they interoperate.

  • How to install and configure Xorg.

  • How to install and configure several window managers and desktop environments.

  • How to use TrueType® fonts in Xorg.

  • How to set up your system for graphical logins (XDM).

Before reading this chapter, you should:

All FreeBSD documents are available for download at https://download.freebsd.org/ftp/doc/

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