Strings

  2025/07/06

Posted Tag: #Linux
Other Tags: #Windows, #Personal, #All

I first wrote my bash script Strings back in April of 2022. I have used it extensively since then but have been through several complete rewrites. The largest one being after removing Arch Linux on ZFS , which was a failed experiment. I actually still have that version. It was extensive. Maybe I should release it as a different project. But Strings installs Arch Linux with a Cinnamon desktop. The Linux Mint icons and such are released on Github so it is easy to keep the Cinnamon desktop up to date. Below is my desktop.

If you use the script as it is with no configuration file, you get limited applications. I use the script in this way for virtual machines or computers I want to use particular applications on such as a HTPC. To get all the applications I have on my everyday computer you would need to use a configuration file.

I could use Linux Mint's Cinnamon distribution and I did when I first started using Linux. It was and still is based either on Ubuntu or Debian. I guess I just wanted more excitement with my operating system. But when I discovered I could put Linux Mint's Cinnamon desktop on Arch Linux I was sold. There are a lot of distributions that offer a Cinnamon desktop but none as pure as mine is.

I came from the world of Window 3.11 on DOS and for the first time I know how my operating system is put together. I had to create Strings. The freedom Linux offers. My servers use Linux. Sure you need to learn some things about managing Linux. But Windows 11 is so convoluted. You can game on this using Steam, although I do not game and never have. I understand gaming is an adventure in itself on Arch Linux. I do keep Windows 11 in a dual boot with Arch Linux so game on Windows and use Arch Linux as your daily driver. Don't game, use Strings. Yes Arch Linux is on the bleeding edge as they call it with Linux. But I have been using Arch Linux for four years now and never have I had an issue I can not solve easily. It is usual about keys. The Arch Linux Wiki is great.

Try Strings in a virtual machine. See what it is about. I do not want anything for it nor credit for it. I created it for me and decided to share it.