GNOME Files

 

 



In the Linux world, Nautilus stood as a reliable and feature-rich file manager for many years. However, with its recent name change to "Files," it continues to evolve while maintaining its reputation as an efficient open-source tool. In this article, we delve into the history of Files and explore some notable features that make it beloved by users worldwide.

A Brief History
Nautilus was initially developed in 1998 as part of the GNOME project's mission to create a user-friendly desktop environment for Unix-like operating systems. It quickly gained popularity due to its intuitive interface and extensive functionality. Over time, Nautilus became synonymous with superior file management on Linux distributions such as Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian.

The Name Change - Becoming "Files"
In 2012, during major changes within GNOME Shell’s design philosophy (GNOME being the desktop environment where Nautilus resided), developers decided on a more simplified approach which led to renaming applications using generic names indicative of their core functionalities rather than specific features or software types.
Henceforth known simply as “Files,” this shift aimed at enhancing clarity and making application usage more straightforward for both newcomers and experienced users alike.

Open Source Prowess
Files embodies the spirit of open source software, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize transparency and community collaboration. Being part of the GNOME project, Files is licensed under the GNU General Public License (GPL), ensuring that its source code remains accessible to everyone.

This open nature allows developers from around the world to contribute improvements, bug fixes, and new features to Files constantly. With a dedicated development team supported by passionate contributors worldwide, this file manager continues to grow in functionality while maintaining stability and adhering to high-quality standards.

Feature Highlights:
a. Intuitive Interface: Files presents users with a clean interface designed for simplicity without compromising on advanced functionalities.

b. Navigation: Users can easily navigate through their files using navigation buttons or keyboard shortcuts.
c. Customizable Views: Users have the flexibility to choose between different views such as icon view, list view or compact view based on their preferences.
d. Tabs and Split View Mode: Multiple tabs enable efficient multitasking within one window; additionally,
   split-view mode lets users compare two directories side-by-side conveniently.
e.Integration with Cloud Services & Network Shares: Access files stored in cloud storage services like Google Drive or network shares seamlessly from within Files itself.
f. Integrated Search Functionality: Quickly locate specific files or folders utilizing powerful search capabilities, including search filters and real-time results.
g.File Operations: Files supports a wide range of file operations, such as copying/moving files and folders, renaming multiple items simultaneously,
   creating symbolic links or shortcuts, deleting files securely with options for undoing accidental deletions.
h.Thumbnail Previews: Get visual previews of images and video thumbnails directly within the file manager for easy identification.
i. Behavior Customization: Tailor the behavior of Files to your liking by adjusting preferences like default folder opening behavior or enabling/disabling various features.


Files (formerly known as Nautilus) has come a long way since its inception in 1998. As an open-source project under GNOME's umbrella, it continues to thrive thanks to its dedicated community of contributors who maintain and improve this essential Linux file management tool continuously. With intuitive navigation, powerful search functionality, and integration with cloud services & network shares among other impressive features—Files offers users control over their digital assets while ensuring ease-of-use is prioritized at every level.


Popular posts from this blog

Open Source Street Names

Image
  I really didn't know how to title this one. Maybe it should've been "Street Names named after Open Source Projects". Maybe this is unconscious clickbait thing. Anyways, as some of you may know, I am the Chairperson of the Geographic Naming Committee in our Ward (23) at Thembisile Municipality. Actually we don't only do street names, we name other places too. A friend reminded me that with great power comes great responsibility. What has this have to do with Open Source? A friend (Eric Mabena) suggested we name some of the streets after Open Source Projects in order to raise awareness on Open Source Software. We have reached out to the community but not all of it, we still need to do some more selling to this idea but the Committee is on board. We must also look into legality around using trademarked names, Firefox and Red Hat for example. Some of the Street Names suggestions that came out from different people we spoke to that we liked and shortlisted are: 1. Li...
Read more

Unveiling the Backbone of Technology: The Role of Open Source Software in Server Environments

Image
In today's digital age, it is hard to imagine a world without servers. Servers are an integral part of the technology ecosystem and are responsible for storing data, running applications and facilitating communication between devices. What many people may not realize is that most servers use open source software. Open source refers to software that is free to use, modify and distribute. It allows users access to the underlying code which they can then customize as per their needs. The benefits of using open source software in server environments are numerous: Cost-effectiveness: One of the primary advantages of open-source solutions like Linux operating systems or Apache web server is its cost-effective nature. Without any upfront costs associated with licensing fees or vendor lock-in requirements, organizations can easily implement these solutions on top-quality hardware at relatively minimal expense compared to proprietary alternatives. Flexibility: Since anyone has access to the...
Read more

Unveiling KDE Karbon

Image
KDE Karbon is an open-source vector graphics editor that provides users with the ability to create and manipulate various types of graphical content. It was first introduced back in 2003 as part of the KDE Project, which aimed to develop a desktop environment for Linux-based operating systems. Over the years, KDE Karbon has undergone numerous updates and improvements, making it one of the most popular tools among graphic designers and digital artists today. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what makes this software so great. A Brief History As mentioned earlier, KDE Karbon was initially released in 2003 under version number 1.0. Since then, several versions have been launched featuring new functionality enhancements including support for SVG files (Scalable Vector Graphics), multi-page documents creation capabilities along with improved layer management functionalities such as grouping layers into folders or hiding them from view when not needed. Features of K...
Read more