For configuring the X Window System on legacy Linux distributions, which tool from the list is specifically the X-based graphical setup utility?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: XF86Setup

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Before auto-configuration was common, administrators used setup tools to generate X server configuration files (for example, XF86Config). Some tools were text-mode dialogs, while others ran within X itself (graphical). Knowing which utility is X-based helps when an exam or legacy environment expects the historical distinction.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The context is XFree86-era tooling.
  • We distinguish between graphical (X-based) and text/dialog-based utilities.
  • Tool names are historically accurate: 'XF86Setup', 'XConfigurator' (Red Hat specific), and 'xf86config'.


Concept / Approach:
'XF86Setup' is the X-based configuration program distributed with XFree86; it launches under the X server and presents graphical dialogs. By contrast, 'xf86config' is a text-mode, question-and-answer program. 'XConfigurator' (Red Hat) primarily provided text-based/newt dialogs rather than a true X-based GUI in most releases. Hence, among these options, only 'XF86Setup' is definitively the X-based tool.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify the requirement: X-based (graphical) configuration utility.Match tools to interfaces: XF86Setup → graphical; xf86config → text; XConfigurator → largely text/newt.Select XF86Setup as the correct answer.Note that modern systems prefer auto-detection or Xorg.conf.d snippets.


Verification / Alternative check:
Consult legacy XFree86 documentation showing screenshots and instructions for running 'XF86Setup'. Comparisons demonstrate that 'xf86config' runs fully in a terminal, confirming the interface difference.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • XConfigurator: Historically a distribution tool with text-based dialogs; not strictly X-based.
  • xf86config: Pure text-mode tool.
  • All of the above: Incorrect because not all listed tools are X-based.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming any tool with 'X' in the name is graphical, or confusing distribution-specific utilities with upstream XFree86 tools.


Final Answer:
XF86Setup

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