How to Install Compiz and Emerald on CentOS 7

Ready to add some sizzle to your CentOS 7 desktop? You’ve come to the right place. We’re going to make your desktop pop with Compiz and Emerald, and we promise, no tech jargon here – just straightforward steps.

Before We Dive In

Here’s what you’ll need:

A CentOS 7 system with your desktop up and running.
Your trusty terminal – make sure you’ve got root or sudo powers.
Don’t forget your internet connection – we’re going to need that too.

Step 1: Get the EPEL Repository Ready

Let’s get this party started! Fire up your terminal and pop in this command to set up the EPEL repository:

sudo yum install epel-release

Step 2: Installing Compiz and Emerald

Now, let’s get Compiz and Emerald on board. Just run this command:

sudo yum install compiz compiz-plugins-main compiz-plugins-extra emerald

Step 3: Configuring Compiz and Emerald

To make Compiz your go-to window manager, you’ll want to enter a couple of commands. Don’t worry; it’s a breeze. Open a terminal and type this:

echo "export WINDOW_MANAGER=/usr/bin/compiz" >> ~/.bashrc
source ~/.bashrc

Step 4: Starting Compiz and Emerald

Time to let Compiz shine. Fire it up with this simple command:

compiz --replace

Step 5: Configuring Compiz Settings

Now, let’s dive into the settings and make your desktop truly yours. We’ll need the CompizConfig Settings Manager (CCSM). Install it by typing:

sudo yum install ccsm

After that, just type ccsm in your terminal, and the magic window will appear. Here, you can tweak all sorts of Compiz settings to your liking – window effects, desktop cube, you name it. Customize it as you see fit.

Step 6: Configuring Emerald Themes

Ready to give your desktop some style? Time to play with Emerald themes. Launch your terminal again and type:

emerald-theme-manager

This nifty tool will pop up a window where you can browse through available themes. Find one that tickles your fancy, select it, and hit the “Apply” button – voilà, your desktop’s got a fresh new look.

Step 7: Automatic Compiz and Emerald Startup

Now, let’s make sure Compiz and Emerald come to life every time you boot up your system. Open your terminal once more and type:

echo "compiz --replace &" >> ~/.xprofile
echo "emerald --replace &" >> ~/.xprofile

Give your system a reboot, and you’ll find Compiz and Emerald ready and waiting to make your desktop awesome.

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