Best applications for the operating system Zenwalk Linux (formerly Minislack)

Introduction

Zenwalk Linux combines speed and simplicity with a carefully curated set of applications designed to deliver a seamless desktop experience. Formerly known as Minislack, Zenwalk focuses on providing a lightweight environment without sacrificing functionality. This article explores the best applications that shine on Zenwalk, covering everything from productivity and development to multimedia and system utilities. Each recommendation is selected for its performance, integration and ease of use.

Desktop Environment Essentials

Xfce Desktop Environment

• Lightweight and Fast – Xfce delivers a responsive interface on older hardware while remaining polished and customizable.
• Panel and Window Manager – Intuitive panel plugins for task switching, system monitors and quick launches keep workflow smooth.
• Thunar File Manager – Integrated seamlessly with Xfce, Thunar offers custom actions, bulk renaming and a clean interface.

Productivity Suite

LibreOffice

• Writer – A full featured word processor with templates and advanced formatting tools.
• Calc – Spreadsheet application with charting, data analysis and formula support.
• Impress and Draw – Powerful tools for presentations and vector graphics with seamless export options.

Gnumeric

• Lightweight Spreadsheet – Faster startup than many alternatives and perfect for basic to intermediate data tasks.
• Statistical Analysis – Includes support for advanced formulas, scripts and plugins.

Development Tools

Geany

• Fast IDE – Supports multiple programming languages with syntax highlighting and code folding.
• Plugin System – Extendable via plugins for version control, code snippets and build commands.

GCC and Make

• Core Compiler Suite – Essential for C and C development with optimizations for Zenwalk’s glibc.
• Build Automation – Make simplifies complex build processes with custom rules and dependency tracking.

Internet and Communication

Firefox

• Privacy Focused – Tracking protection and extensive add on support for ad blocking and security.
• Performance Tuning – Adjusted default settings ensure fast page loads on Zenwalk’s lean environment.

Thunderbird

• Email Client – Integrated address book, calendar and support for multiple protocols including IMAP and POP.
• Encryption – Built in OpenPGP support for secure communication without external plugins.

Multimedia

VLC Media Player

• Universal Codec Support – Plays virtually any audio or video file without additional codecs.
• Streaming Capabilities – Acts as a streaming server or client for network media playback.

Pavucontrol

• Advanced Audio Mixer – Fine grain control over application volumes and device profiles.
• PulseAudio Integration – Easy switching between input and output devices on the fly.

Graphics and Image Editing

GIMP

• Professional Grade – Layer support, advanced filters and scripting for complex workflows.
• Customization – Dockable dialogs and plugin repository for additional brushes and effects.

Inkscape

• Vector Illustration – Perfect for logo design, diagrams and scalable graphics.
• SVG Native – Full support for the SVG standard with exporting to multiple formats.

System Utilities

GParted

• Disk Management – Resize, move and format partitions with ease in a graphical interface.
• Live CD Compatibility – Can be used outside the running system for safe partition operations.

htop

• Interactive Process Viewer – Color coded display of CPU, memory and load with mouse support.
• Customizable – Filter and sort processes, trace processes and manage priorities on the fly.

Advanced Package Management

Netpkg

• Zenwalk Native – Simplified command line package manager with dependency resolution and rollback support.
• Repository Access – Access to core, extra and community repositories for a balanced selection of software.

SlackBuild Scripts

• Compatibility Layer – Build and install packages from Slackware builds with minimal modifications.
• Community Driven – Thousands of scripts maintained by contributors for the latest software versions.

Summary Table

Conclusion

Zenwalk Linux excels by pairing a nimble desktop environment with a selective array of top tier applications. Whether crafting documents, coding software, browsing securely or managing system resources, Zenwalk’s curated software stack delivers efficiency and elegance. Explore these best applications to unlock the full potential of Zenwalk and experience a streamlined, high performance Linux ecosystem.

Official website of Zenwalk Linux (formerly Minislack)