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Almost every linux docks, one way or another, exists to mimic the functions of Mac OS X docks. gOS and ZenWalk are two of the few Linux distributions that has docks by default. Let’s look at some of the mainstream Linux docks out there:
Why is the Dock becoming more and more popular? It’s probably got something to do with clever window management, doesn’t it? Well, in my opinion it’s just the eye candy, though I’m sure that people appreciate the psychological trick; every tried to open 2 instances of a program with a Dock? ;) Now here’s a list of 5 different Docks you can use on Linux.
Dock applications is really cool way to get quicker access to your installed applications, directories, or files, it’s fully customized with different desktop and window managers. you will find a lot of docks available to use with different features for extra plugins, docks applets, and themes.
Cairo dock is a Mac OSX dock-like application that you can install in your Linux machine. One of the advantage that it has over other docks is that it does not require any compositing window manager to work. Even on a low-end PC, it will still work fine. This is not possible for docks like Avant Window Navigator which depends on compositing manager (such as Compiz) to function.
An update today brings helpers and multiple docks to Avant Window Navigator from the AWN trunk PPA. "Multiple docks" means you'll be able to run multiple instances of Avant Window Navigator, each with its own configuration.
"`Single Window` mode in the current development version of GIMP is so named because it allows you to attach GIMP's Docks to the main window. It does not force you to have one singular window, as you can have Docks attached and detached in single-window mode"...
To have or not to have a dock in Linux is really dependent on individual preferences. While popular Linux distros such as Ubuntu and Fedora do not come with a dock by default, there are plenty around.
Mac style docks or launchers have become very popular among *nix users with the increase in popularity of Macs. And unlike Snow Leopard users there are quite a few free options for Linux.
