Alternative file manager for Gnome
Divide and Conquer

© Valery Sibrikov, Fotolia
Twenty years ago, Peter Norton created a simple file manager with a split-view display. Can Gnome Commander inherit the veteran's crown?
Gnome Commander integrates seamlessly with the Gnome desktop, and in contrast to the standard Gnome file manager, Nautilus, it offers a split-view mode – with two directories in one window – that simplifies copying and moving files.
Points of View
One of the most strongly criticized features of Gnome is the "spatial view" approach used by the Gnome file manager Nautilus.
In the spatial view approach, a new window opens to display the content of a folder. If you dig deep into your file structure, this can really clutter up your desktop with excess windows. Thus, a split-view file manager, such as Gnome Commander [1], can be a blessing, especially if you frequently copy and move files and folders.
The ability to see the source and target directories in the same window (for example, see Figure 3) reduces the number of windows on the desktop.

The Gnome developers also have discussed at regular intervals whether to implement a split-view feature for Nautilus – see the box titled "Split View" – but thus far, no definitive results have been forthcoming [2].
The first time Gnome Commander launches, you will see a clear-cut window with a toolbar that includes navigation buttons for fast scrolling, to launch file operations (such as copying, moving, or deleting), and to edit and mail files. The buttons also include fast access options for your home directory and Windows networks.
Split View
File managers typically display the contents of a single directory in each window. In split-view mode, a feature that Gnome Commander and other programs offer, the program displays two folders in a single window (Figure 1). Many users think that file operations are much easier in a split-view file manager than in single-view variants. Some programs – including the KDE 3 file manager, Konqueror – give users the option of displaying more than two directories in one window, but this can affect clarity.
Sub-Windows
Most of the window is occupied by two vertically tiled sub-windows, although you can tile horizontally if you prefer. To do so, go to the View menu and select Change to horizontal layout.
In the bottom of the window, you can access frequently used commands such as file View, Edit, Copy, Move, and Mkdir.
Also, you can enter commands directly, just as in a terminal.
If Gnome Commander is not set up to your liking, you can change it by going to Settings | Options | Layout (Figure 4). Here, you configure the program, starting with the font type and size, through line height and icon size, to themes.
Filter
To specify file types that you do not want to view, you can use the Filter tab. The ability to store Gnome Commander passwords in the Gnome keyring (Network tab) takes the pain out of handling confidential data.
External applications that the file manager uses to display documents are entered in the Programs tab. To access different drives, define them in Devices.
Buy this article as PDF
(incl. VAT)
Buy Linux Magazine
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Find SysAdmin Jobs
News
-
KDE Plasma 5.27 Beta is Ready for Testing
The latest beta iteration of the KDE Plasma desktop is now available and includes some important additions and fixes.
-
Netrunner OS 23 Is Now Available
The latest version of this Linux distribution is now based on Debian Bullseye and is ready for installation and finally hits the KDE 5.20 branch of the desktop.
-
New Linux Distribution Built for Gamers
With a Gnome desktop that offers different layouts and a custom kernel, PikaOS is a great option for gamers of all types.
-
System76 Beefs Up Popular Pangolin Laptop
The darling of open-source-powered laptops and desktops will soon drop a new AMD Ryzen 7-powered version of their popular Pangolin laptop.
-
Nobara Project Is a Modified Version of Fedora with User-Friendly Fixes
If you're looking for a version of Fedora that includes third-party and proprietary packages, look no further than the Nobara Project.
-
Gnome 44 Now Has a Release Date
Gnome 44 will be officially released on March 22, 2023.
-
Nitrux 2.6 Available with Kernel 6.1 and a Major Change
The developers of Nitrux have officially released version 2.6 of their Linux distribution with plenty of new features to excite users.
-
Vanilla OS Initial Release Is Now Available
A stock GNOME experience with on-demand immutability finally sees its first production release.
-
Critical Linux Vulnerability Found to Impact SMB Servers
A Linux vulnerability with a CVSS score of 10 has been found to affect SMB servers and can lead to remote code execution.
-
Linux Mint 21.1 Now Available with Plenty of Look and Feel Changes
Vera has arrived and although it is still using kernel 5.15, there are plenty of improvements sure to please everyone.