Introduction
GNOME Shell debuted a sleek, minimalist desktop experience centered around a single panel. However, many Linux users still prefer the conventional dual panel layout popularized by past versions of GNOME.
Thankfully, the flexibility of GNOME Shell extensions enables modifying the user interface to suit different preferences. One such option is Dash to Panel, a fully customizable dock and panel replacement.
In this beginner-friendly guide, you will learn how to configure Dash to Panel extension to emulate a two panel layout in GNOME Shell.
Installing Dash to Panel
First, enable support for browser installation of GNOME Shell extensions by installing the Chrome GNOME Shell integration plugin. Firefox users can utilize this dedicated add-on instead.
Next, visit the Dash to Panel page and flip the switch to turn it ON. Click Install to finalize enabling. Log out and back in for changes to take effect.
Activating the Dual Panel Mode
Right click the Dash to Panel toolbar and select "Settings" from the context menu. Under the Fine-Tune tab, check the "Keep original gnome-shell top panel" option.
This will retain the default top GNOME Shell panel while utilizing Dash to Panel as an additional bottom panel. You may notice duplicate system tray icons which we will address next.
Removing Duplicate Symstems Tray Icons
Still within Dash to Panel settings, choose the Position tab. Here you can toggle visibility for individual UI elements on an as needed basis.
For a cleaner dual panel experience, I recommend disabling the system tray, date menu and activities button from Dash to Panel. These functions are already handled by the top panel.
Configuring an Enhanced Taskbar
Navigate to the Behavior settings and disable icon grouping to show labels alongside application icons. This improves visual association compared to a icons-only workflow.
Click the adjacent gear icon to further tweak options like label size, truncation preferences and more based on your requirements.
Conclusion
And that‘s all there is to it! With just a few tweaks, Dash to Panel can provide a refined GNOME two panel layout that still retains the performance benefits of a GNOME Shell session.
The extensive customizability of this extension enables molding it into the optimal workflow to boost your productivity. Dash to Panel has quickly become an indispensable addition to my desktop.
