How to use the Ubuntu logo as the Menu Icon in Ubuntu 20.04

Introduction

Ubuntu, a popular linux distribution, has become synonymous with user-friendliness, robust performance, and a vibrant community. Customization options, such as setting unique icons for menu applications, allow users to personalize their experience further. One of the most cherished symbols within the Ubuntu community is the Ubuntu logo itself. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore how to replace your default menu icon with the Ubuntu logo in Ubuntu 20.04. By the end of this article, you will not only be able to execute this task effectively but also understand the background and the various customizable features Ubuntu offers.

What is the Ubuntu Logo?

First, let’s take a moment to appreciate the intricacies of the Ubuntu logo. The logo consists of three stylized human figures forming a circle, symbolizing the community-oriented approach of Ubuntu — ‘I am because we are,’ as the saying goes. This logo is a recognizable identity that resonates with millions of users worldwide and serves as a brilliant representation of open-source software and collaboration.

Why Customize Your Menu Icon?

Customizing your menu icon can not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your desktop environment but also serve practical purposes:

1. Personal Identity: Showcase your love for Ubuntu or personalize your workspace.
2. Enhanced Visual Recognition: Easily identify your menu icon amid various applications.
3. Creative Expression: Display your creativity by choosing unique variants of the logo.

Prerequisites

Before diving into the customization process, there are a few prerequisites to ensure smooth execution:

• Ubuntu 20.04 Installed: Make sure your Ubuntu operating system is up to date.
• Basic Terminal Knowledge: Familiarity with Linux terminal commands will be beneficial, as some steps require terminal access.
• Ubuntu Logo Image: Download the high-resolution Ubuntu logo in PNG format. You can easily find it on the official Ubuntu website.

Step-by-Step Guide to Change Your Menu Icon

Let’s break down the process into detailed steps for clarity.

Step 1: Download the Ubuntu Logo

1. Access the Ubuntu Logo Source: Open your web browser and navigate to the Ubuntu logo page.
2. Choose the Right Format: It’s best to download a transparent PNG version for seamless integration.
3. Save to Your Local Drive: Make sure to remember the download location, as you’ll need this file later.

Step 2: Convert the Image (Optional)

While it’s often optional, converting the image to a suitable size can ensure that it looks great in the menu:

1. Open the Terminal: You can do this by searching for “Terminal” in your application launcher.

2. Navigate to the Image Location: Use the cd command. For example:
   bash
   cd ~/Downloads

3. Install ImageMagick: If you don’t have it already, install ImageMagick for image manipulation. Enter:
   bash
   sudo apt install imagemagick

4. Resize the Image: Once installed, you can resize your image using:
   bash
   convert ubuntu-logo.png -resize 128×128 ubuntu-logo-icon.png

Step 3: Create a New Icon File

Now you will create a custom icon file that the system can recognize:

1. Open the Directory: Use this command to navigate to the appropriate icons folder:
   bash
   cd ~/.icons

   If the .icons folder does not exist, you can create it:
   bash
   mkdir ~/.icons

2. Create a New Directory: To make it organized, create a new directory for your custom icon:
   bash
   mkdir custom-icons
   cd custom-icons

3. Copy the Ubuntu Logo: Copy the logo file into this directory:
   bash
   cp ~/Downloads/ubuntu-logo-icon.png ~/.icons/custom-icons/

Step 4: Apply the Icon to the Menu

To finalize your customization, apply the icon to your menu:

1. Find the Desktop Entry for Your Menu: This file usually resides in /usr/share/applications/. Use the following command to locate it. For instance, for the main menu, you might type:
   bash
   cd /usr/share/applications/

2. Edit the Desktop Entry: Open your application’s .desktop file using a text editor, like nano:
   bash
   sudo nano <your-application.desktop>

3. Modify the Icon Entry: Look for the line that starts with Icon= and change it to:
   plaintext
   Icon=/home/your_username/.icons/custom-icons/ubuntu-logo-icon.png

   Make sure to replace your_username with your actual Ubuntu username.

4. Save Changes and Exit: In nano, you can save changes with CTRL + O and exit with CTRL + X.

Step 5: Refresh Your Desktop Environment

To see the changes, you might need to refresh your desktop or simply log out and log back in. This action enables the system to recognize your new configuration.

Additional Customization Tips

While you are customizing your menu icon, consider exploring some additional customization features in Ubuntu:

Themes and Icons

1. Installing New Icon Themes: Use tools like GNOME Tweaks to change not just the menu icon but the entire icon theme for a cohesive look.
2. Changing the GTK Theme: You may also want to tweak your GTK theme for improved visual compatibility.

Using Extensions

Consider leveraging GNOME Shell extensions such as Dash to Panel or Arc Menu, which allow even more customization of your menu experience.

Conclusion

Customizing your Ubuntu menu icon by replacing it with the iconic Ubuntu logo is not just a simple aesthetic change but also a statement about community and collaboration. This guide has walked you through the steps needed to achieve this personalization, along with additional customization options to make your desktop uniquely yours.

With a few terminal commands, you can transform your workspace into a reflection of your style and preferences. Now go ahead and show off that Ubuntu pride!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How do I find the default menu icon file in Ubuntu 20.04?

The default menu icons are usually found under /usr/share/icons/hicolor/ or /usr/share/applications/. You can explore these directories using the terminal or a file manager.

2. Will changing the menu icon affect system performance?

No, changing the menu icon does not affect system performance. It is purely a visual customization.

3. Can I revert to the original menu icon after customization?

Yes, you can revert to the original icon by editing the .desktop file again and restoring the original Icon= line.

4. What formats are acceptable for menu icons in Ubuntu?

Common formats include PNG, SVG, and XPM. PNG is the most frequently used due to its support for transparency.

5. Are there any risks involved in customizing system icons?

As long as you follow the steps carefully and back up any files you modify, there are minimal risks involved in customizing your system icons. However, it’s always advisable to create a backup of the original files first.

6. What should I do if my new icon doesn’t appear?

If the new icon doesn’t appear, try logging out and back in. If that doesn’t work, double-check the file path in the .desktop file for accuracy.