dwm

dwm

dwm is a dynamic window manager for the X Window System. It manages windows in tiled, monocle and floating layouts. All of the screen real estate is used efficiently. dwm is extremely simple to configure because its configuration is done in C code, meaning no run-time parsing or complex configuration files are required. This also makes it very fast and secure.

dwm has a small code base (less than 3000 SLOC) and is designed for advanced computer users. It features multiple workspaces (tags), which can be assigned to each window. dwm supports keyboard and mouse interaction for managing windows, with mouse interaction being optional. dwm aims to provide a minimalist, efficient, and highly customizable window management experience, allowing users to tailor the environment to their exact needs.

dwm is configured by modifying its source code and recompiling. This requires familiarity with the C programming language and the Xlib library. Configuration changes require restarting dwm to take effect. dwm is not a complete desktop environment, and relies on external programs for tasks such as panel management, application launching, and volume control.

dwm's configuration is handled by modifying the config.def.h file, typically located in the dwm source directory. Keybindings, colors, fonts, gaps, and other settings can be adjusted by editing this file and recompiling dwm with make and installing with sudo make install.

dwm uses the concept of 'tags' as workspaces. Each window can be assigned to one or more tags. The user can switch between tags to focus on different groups of windows. The default configuration usually provides nine tags, accessible with the key combination ModKey + 1-9.

dwm supports three primary layouts: tiled, monocle, and floating. In tiled layout, windows are arranged to fill the screen without overlapping. In monocle layout, one window occupies the entire screen, and other windows are stacked behind it. Floating layout allows windows to be positioned and resized freely.

dwm was created by Anselm R. Garbe. The primary motivation was to create a simple, efficient, and customizable window manager with a small code base. It is developed and maintained by a small group of developers. dwm's simplicity and customizability have made it a popular choice among advanced Linux users who want fine-grained control over their window management.

st(1), dmenu(1)