In this article, we’ll take a look at Gnome Shell extensions. Just before we proceed, let’s ask ourselves, what are shell extensions? Shell extensions are tiny pieces of software code that enhance or add functionality to a GNOME desktop. Think of extensions as browser add-ons that perform a specific task like checking spelling errors, downloading movies or blocking ads. Most extensions are accessible at the top bar of your GNOME Desktop.
Installing gnome-shell extensions
You can choose the following ways to install extensions
- Installing from your web browser by visiting https://extensions.gnome.org/
- Download and install extensions manually
- Using the gnome shell extensions package
The easiest way to install extension is by installing the extensions package
Run the following commands and restart shell or reboot
For Ubuntu 14.04, 16,04 , 17,04
apt-get install gnome-shell-extensions
For Fedora 21 and later
dnf install gnome-shell-extensions
For Centos & RHEL 7
yum install gnome-shell extensions
The other method is by navigating to the GNOME shell extensions page on https://extensions.gnome.org/
Select your preferred extension.
We are going to install the weather extension called Open Weather
TURN ON the toggle on the right side and select your GNOME shell version at the bottom.
A screen will prompt you to click on Install to install the extension.
Click on Install
You can locate the extension on the top bar
Gnome tweak tool
This is a utility tool used for managing and customizing shell extensions.
To install, run the commands below
For Debian 8 , 9 & Ubuntu 14.04 , 16.04 & 17.10
apt-get install gnome-tweak-tool
For Fedora 21 and later
dnf install gnome-tweak-tool
For Centos & RHEL 7
yum install gnome-tweak-tool
