Make Your Kali linux Desktop Look Professional // Amazing Kali Linux And HYPRLAND Setup

Summary

This video guides viewers through the process of installing and configuring Hyperland on Kali Linux, transforming it into a highly customizable and professional-looking desktop environment. Hyperland, a Wayland compositor based on WL Roots, offers smooth animations, dynamic tiling, and keyboard-driven interaction. The tutorial covers everything from system updates, backup setups, and NVIDIA driver installation to setting up Hyperland using an automated script. It also includes configuring SDM as a display manager, customizing key bindings, and adjusting the desktop layout and wallpapers. For users who prefer to revert, a backup restoration option is also provided.

Takeaways

• 😀 Hyperland is a powerful Wayland compositor for Linux, designed for keyboard enthusiasts with key bindings for interaction and smooth animations.
• 😀 Before installing Hyperland, ensure you have a fresh copy of Kali Linux with XFCE desktop installed and backup your data, as the process involves custom scripts.
• 😀 To set up Hyperland, update Kali Linux and modify the source list to enable package sourcing, followed by installing the necessary backup tools.
• 😀 For users with Nvidia GPUs, it is crucial to install the proper Nvidia drivers before proceeding with Hyperland installation to avoid compatibility issues.
• 😀 The installation of Hyperland can be done using a custom script created by the developer, available on GitHub, which automates much of the process.
• 😀 During installation, the script asks for user input to configure various options, such as enabling GTK themes, installing a file manager, and choosing display managers.
• 😀 After installation, you may need to reboot and use a command (hyper) to launch Hyperland if it doesn't boot automatically.
• 😀 SDM (Simple Desktop Manager) can be used to switch between XFCE and Hyperland sessions, allowing flexibility to choose the environment at login.
• 😀 After setting up Hyperland, the system may require a reboot to properly display wallpapers and apply configuration changes.
• 😀 Hyperland offers flexibility in customization, such as changing key bindings, adjusting keyboard shortcuts, and modifying wallpapers and system layouts.
• 😀 If Hyperland doesn't work well, you can restore your Kali Linux system to its previous state using the backup tool, TimeShift, to revert to the original XFCE environment.

Q & A

What is Hyperland, and why is it recommended for Kali Linux users?

Hyperland is a Wayland compositor based on WL Roots, designed to provide smooth animations, dynamic tiling, and a streamlined configuration process. It’s ideal for keyboard enthusiasts since it relies heavily on key bindings and shortcuts for interacting with the environment.

What is the first step in setting up Hyperland on Kali Linux?

The first step is to ensure you have a fresh copy of the latest Kali Linux with the XFCE desktop environment installed on your system.

Why is it important to back up your system before proceeding with Hyperland installation?

Since the Hyperland installation process involves using a custom installer script, it’s important to back up your system to avoid potential data loss or configuration issues, allowing you to restore your system to its previous state if something goes wrong.

How do you install NVIDIA drivers on Kali Linux before installing Hyperland?

To install NVIDIA drivers, you first determine your GPU model using a specific command, then set up the NVIDIA package using the PCI ID of the GPU, and install the drivers. After installation, reboot your system to apply the changes.

What is the role of the installer script for Hyperland?

The installer script automates the installation of Hyperland on Kali Linux. It handles tasks like enabling necessary repositories, installing dependencies, and configuring the system for Hyperland, saving time and effort during the setup process.

What should you do if your system doesn’t boot into Hyperland after installation?

If Hyperland doesn’t boot, you can switch to a terminal (CLI) by pressing Ctrl + Alt + F2, log in, and type 'hyper' to manually start the Hyperland environment.

How can you switch between XFCE and Hyperland on the login screen?

At the login screen, click on your username, then click on the desktop session option at the bottom left. From there, you can choose either XFCE or Hyperland as your session.

What is SDM, and how does it work with Hyperland on Kali Linux?

SDM (Simple Desktop Manager) is a login manager that allows you to switch between XFCE and Hyperland. Once configured, SDM enables a seamless transition between these environments directly from the login screen.

How can you customize key bindings in Hyperland?

You can customize key bindings by editing the 'key binds' configuration file. For example, you can set up shortcuts like Super + D to open a terminal or Super + A for the file manager.

What should you do if Hyperland doesn’t display wallpapers correctly?

If the wallpaper doesn't display correctly, it's recommended to reboot your system to apply the changes. This usually resolves the issue and ensures that the wallpaper displays properly in the Hyperland environment.