You’re using Ubuntu and want to customize the location of the taskbar, also called the dock? Good news: it’s entirely possible to move it to the left, right, or bottom of the screen, depending on your preferences.
Why move the taskbar?
On Ubuntu, the taskbar is positioned by default on the left side of the screen. This may suit some users, but others prefer a more traditional layout, similar to Windows, at the bottom of the screen.
Moving the dock can improve ergonomics, depending on your habits or screen size. On a wide screen, the left side may be suitable, while on a smaller screen, the bottom of the screen might be more practical.
Explanatory video
Steps to move the taskbar
Here’s how to do it in just a few clicks:
- Open Ubuntu’s Settings.
- In the left column, click Appearance.
- In the Dock Position section, choose: Left, Bottom, or Right.
The change is immediate; you’ll see the dock reposition itself automatically.
What if I can’t find this option?
Make sure you’re using the standard version of Ubuntu with the GNOME desktop environment. If you’re using a variant like Xubuntu or Kubuntu, the interface is different and this method won’t apply.
Other customization tips
In the same Appearance menu, you can also:
- Adjust the dock icon size
- Enable or disable auto-hide
- Choose a light or dark theme
Conclusion
Moving the taskbar on Ubuntu is a quick and easy way to customize your desktop to your liking. It can improve your user experience, especially if you’re used to another operating system.
