awesome

Start awesome window manager

$ awesome

$ awesome -c [~/.config/awesome/rc.lua]

$ awesome -k

$ awesome -k -c [path/to/rc.lua]

$ awesome -v

$ awesome --replace

awesome [-v | --version] [-h | --help] [-c | --config FILE] [-k | --check] [--search DIR] [--no-argb] [--replace]

awesome is a highly configurable, tiling window manager for X11. It manages windows in tiled, floating, and other layouts, maximizing screen space efficiency for keyboard-driven workflows.
Configuration is done through ~/.config/awesome/rc.lua using the Lua programming language, allowing extensive customization of layouts, keybindings, widgets, and appearance. The default configuration provides a functional starting point with sensible defaults.
Key concepts include tags (virtual desktops), layouts (tiling algorithms), and widgets (status bar components). The Mod4 key (typically Windows/Super key) is the default modifier for keybindings.
Default keybindings include:
- Mod4 + Enter: Open terminal
- Mod4 + r: Run prompt
- Mod4 + j/k: Focus next/previous client
- Mod4 + Shift + c: Close focused client
- Mod4 + Space: Cycle layouts
- Mod4 + 1-9: Switch to tag
The window manager includes a built-in menu, notification system, and status bar with system information.

-v, --version

Display version information and exit

Display help message and exit

Use specified Lua configuration file instead of default

Check configuration file syntax and exit

Add directory to Lua library search path

Disable ARGB visuals (transparency)

Replace an existing window manager

Disable composite manager visual effects

Requires X11; does not support Wayland. Configuration errors in rc.lua will cause awesome to fall back to defaults. Some features require a compositor for transparency effects. The learning curve for Lua configuration can be steep for new users.

awesome was created by Julien Danjou and first released in 2007. It was designed as a successor to dwm with greater extensibility through Lua scripting. The name is a playful reference to being "awesome" rather than just "good." The project continues active development with a focus on stability and customization.

i3(1), dwm(1), bspwm(1), xmonad(1), lua(1)