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Asked: 2024-09-23T17:52:24+05:30 In:

What are the steps to launch .desktop files from the terminal in Ubuntu?

I’ve been trying to figure out how to launch .desktop files from the terminal in Ubuntu, and it’s been quite the adventure! So, I downloaded this cool application, and it comes with a .desktop file to make things easier. But honestly, using the GUI feels a bit sluggish at times, you know? I want that sweet, quick access right from the terminal.

But here’s where I’m getting a bit stuck. I know that .desktop files are meant to be used in the graphical interface, but I’ve heard there’s a way to launch them directly from the terminal as well. I mean, who doesn’t want to impress friends with some terminal wizardry?

I’ve tried a few things, but it seems like the terminal just keeps giving me the cold shoulder. I remember reading something about needing to make the file executable first, but I’m not sure about the exact commands. I guess I should start by navigating to the directory where the .desktop file is located, right?

Then, I think there’s a command like `chmod`, but do I really need to add parameters to that? And once I’ve done that, how do I actually run the .desktop file? Is it just a matter of typing its name in? Or does it have to be in a specific format? What if the file contains spaces in its name or some weird characters?

Also, do I need to worry about the desktop environment? I’m not sure if it matters if I’m using GNOME, XFCE, or something else. I’ve seen some people mention that certain DEs handle .desktop files differently.

If anyone has walked this path before and could share the exact steps or commands, I would really appreciate it! I want to get this down so I can add it to my little collection of terminal tricks. Plus, if this works out, I’ll be able to show off a bit in front of my fellow nerdy friends! So, hit me up with your wisdom!

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    2 Answers

    1. To launch a .desktop file from the terminal in Ubuntu, you’ll want to start by navigating to the directory where the .desktop file is located using the `cd` command. For example, if your .desktop file is located in the `Downloads` directory, you would run: cd ~/Downloads. After that, you’ll need to ensure the file is executable. To do this, use the chmod command followed by +x to make the file executable: chmod +x yourfile.desktop. Replace yourfile.desktop with the actual name of your file. If your file name contains spaces, make sure to wrap it in quotes, like this: chmod +x "your file.desktop".

      Once the file is executable, you can launch it from the terminal by running: ./yourfile.desktop. Again, if there are spaces in the name, you can use quotes. Alternatively, you can also run it using the gtk-launch command, if your .desktop file is placed in the ~/.local/share/applications/ directory. The desktop environment shouldn’t affect the launching process significantly, but in case of issues, you can always check if your .desktop file has the necessary fields like Exec to specify the command to run. By following these steps, you should be able to impress your friends with your terminal skills!

    2. Launching .desktop files from the terminal in Ubuntu is actually not too tough once you get the hang of it! Here’s a simple guide to help you out:

      1. First, you’ll want to navigate to the directory where your .desktop file is located. You can use the cd command for this. For example:
        2. cd /path/to/your/directory
      2. Now, yes, you need to make the .desktop file executable. You just need to use the chmod command. The command you want is:
        3. chmod +x yourfile.desktop
      3. Once it’s executable, you can run it! To do that, you just type:
        4. ./yourfile.desktop
      4. If your file has spaces in its name (like “My Application.desktop”), you need to either wrap it in quotes or escape the space with a backslash. Here’s how:
        5. ./"My Application.desktop"
        ./My\ Application.desktop
      5. And about that desktop environment thing—yeah, it can matter a bit. Most desktop environments should handle .desktop files similarly, but just keep an eye on any specific quirks related to your environment (like GNOME or XFCE).

      That’s pretty much it! Give it a shot, and soon you’ll be impressing your friends with your terminal skills!

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