Linux desktop selection (legacy Red Hat tools): Which utility allows a user to change the default X Window desktop environment/session?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: switchdesk

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Historically, some Linux distributions (notably Red Hat–based systems) provided a small utility to change the default X Window desktop or window manager without manual editing of startup scripts. Recognizing such tools is useful on certification exams and when maintaining older systems.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The system uses the X Window System with multiple desktop options (e.g., GNOME, KDE).
  • There exists a distribution-provided helper to switch defaults.
  • Names like utilinux or window are not standard desktop-switch tools.


Concept / Approach:
switchdesk is a utility that lets users select their preferred desktop environment, updating configuration so that the chosen desktop starts on the next login. While modern environments provide graphical display managers to select sessions, switchdesk was an accessible command-line/GUI helper in certain releases.



Step-by-Step Solution:

Run switchdesk or its GUI variant (where available).Choose the target desktop (e.g., GNOME, KDE).Log out and log back in to see the selected desktop start.If absent, adjust display manager session options or ~/.xinitrc manually.


Verification / Alternative check:
Inspect desktop session files under /usr/share/xsessions/ and confirm default symlinks or configuration changes after using switchdesk.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
utilinux, cempre, window: Not standard tools for this task. None of the above: incorrect because switchdesk is the appropriate utility.



Common Pitfalls:
Expecting switchdesk on modern minimal installs; current systems often rely on display managers (GDM, SDDM, LightDM) to select sessions per login.



Final Answer:
switchdesk

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