Browse free open source Window Managers and projects below. Use the toggles on the left to filter open source Window Managers by OS, license, language, programming language, and project status.

  • Visitor Management and Staff Sign In | Sign In App Icon
    Visitor Management and Staff Sign In | Sign In App

    Sign In App is a modern, enjoyable way to sign in visitors and staff, and book desks and meeting rooms.

    Our visitor management system streamlines registration, check-in, and authorization processes, while our facility management tools streamline room booking, resource allocation, and asset management. We prioritize security with our advanced risk mitigation measures, including health and safety protocols, emergency messaging, and robust analytics for thorough auditing.
  • Manage your IT department more effectively Icon
    Manage your IT department more effectively

    Streamline your business from end to end with ConnectWise PSA

    ConnectWise PSA (formerly Manage) allows you to stop working in separate systems, and helps you build a more profitable business. No more duplicate data entries, inefficient employees, manual invoices, and the inability to accurately track client service issues. Get a behind the scenes look into the award-winning PSA that automates processes for each area of business: sales, help desk, support, finance, and HR.
  • 1
    Borderless Gaming

    Borderless Gaming

    A simple tool for turning windowed video games into fullscreen apps

    Play your favorite games fullscreen and borderless with Borderless Gaming. It's a simple tool that allows you to turn windowed video games into "fullscreen" applications without all of the negative side effects and time-consuming alt-tabs.
    Downloads: 366 This Week
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  • 2
    Project has been moved to https://github.com/marchaesen/vcxsrv Windows X-server based on the xorg git sources (like xming or cygwin's xwin), but compiled with Visual C++ 2012 Express Edition. Source code can also be compiled with VS2008, VS2008 Express Edition and VS2010 Express Edition, although current project and makefile are not fully compatible anymore. Versions starting from 1.14.3.0 are not compatible with Windows XP anymore.
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    Downloads: 6,888 This Week
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  • 3
    PowerToys

    PowerToys

    System utilities to maximize productivity

    PowerToys is a set of utilities for power users to tune and streamline their Windows experience for greater productivity.
    Downloads: 65 This Week
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  • 4
    Xming X Server for Windows

    Xming X Server for Windows

    X Window System Server for Windows

    Xming is the leading X Window System Server for Microsoft Windows 8/7/Vista/XP (+ server 2012/2008/2003). It is fully featured, small and fast, simple to install and because it is standalone native Microsoft Windows, easily made portable (not needing a machine-specific installation).
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    Downloads: 6,199 This Week
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  • High-performance Open Source API Gateway Icon
    High-performance Open Source API Gateway

    KrakenD is a stateless, distributed, high-performance API Gateway that helps you effortlessly adopt microservices

    KrakenD is a high-performance API Gateway optimized for resource efficiency, capable of managing 70,000 requests per second on a single instance. The stateless architecture allows for straightforward, linear scalability, eliminating the need for complex coordination or database maintenance.
  • 5
    Mabox Linux

    Mabox Linux

    Lightweight ready to use OpenBox Desktop Rolling-release Manjaro based

    Mabox is a Manjaro based, desktop Linux distribution. The project ships with Openbox as the default desktop with pinch of customistations and home-brewed tools, like improved menu, side-panels and Mabox Control Center. Works great even on weaker computers.
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    Downloads: 1,070 This Week
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  • 6
    Archcraft

    Archcraft

    Yet another minimal Linux distribution, based on Arch Linux.

    Archcraft is an arch-based rolling-release distribution aimed at users who cares more about minimalism and aesthetics of their desktop. It comes pre-configured with various lightweight applications which makes it super fast. It can run under 500Mb of memory. There's no desktop environment in (main) Archcraft, just two highly configured window managers - Openbox and Bspwm. The default username & password is 'liveuser' for live ISO. The installer can be found in the app launcher and in openbox menu under the Application > System category, namely 'Install Archcraft'. Archcraft uses two Installers, Calamares and ABIF
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    Downloads: 1,028 This Week
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  • 7
    Enlightenment
    Enlightenment is a window manager for the X11 windowing system. Its design goal is to be as configurable as possible - in look AND in feel.
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    Downloads: 660 This Week
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  • 8
    KMSpico All in One Activation 2.0.6

    KMSpico All in One Activation 2.0.6

    KMSpico Activate Windows and Office

    What are Windows KMSpico all in one Activation 2.0.6 Tools? Windows kmspico Tools is a set of tools that allow IT administrators to manage the activation of Windows installations. kmspico tools are designed to help simplify the activation of Windows systems and ensure that the installation is properly licensed. kmspico tools are an important part of any Windows system and are used by IT professionals to manage Windows activation and license keys. kmspico tools are typically used in large organizations or corporate environments where a large number of systems need to be activated or managed. KMS tools are also used by smaller organizations or individuals who have a single system or just a few systems that need to be activated. KMS tools provide an easy way to manage the activation of Windows systems and to ensure that the system is properly licensed. KMS Full - KMSpico for Windows 11, 10, 8, 7 & Office , KMSPico Activator Download RAR PASSWORD=KMSpico
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    Downloads: 1,747 This Week
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  • 9
    QTTabBar is extension for Windows Explorer that brings tabbed browsing to Microsoft's file browser, along with a host of other great features. Under new management! Now in public beta!
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    Downloads: 363 This Week
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  • Finance Automation that puts you in charge Icon
    Finance Automation that puts you in charge

    Tipalti delivers smart payables that elevate modern business.

    Our robust pre-built connectors and our no-code, drag-and-drop interface makes it easy and fast to automatically sync vendors, invoices, and invoice payment data between Tipalti and your ERP or accounting software.
  • 10
    VirtuaWin - Multiple virtual desktops

    VirtuaWin - Multiple virtual desktops

    Multiple desktops on a Windows box

    VirtuaWin is an application for the Windows user community that misses the wonderful multiple desktop functionality often used on Unix systems. It is simple, reliable and highly configurable, supporting up to 20 virtual desktops.
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    Downloads: 281 This Week
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  • 11
    IDM Trial Reset Tool 2024 V6.42

    IDM Trial Reset Tool 2024 V6.42

    Use IDM forever without cracking. If you can, buy a license to support

    RAR Password = idm2024 IDM Trial Resetter Features: Safe to Use: IDM Trial Resetter has been used by many IDM users to increase IDM trial period. As you will be using Internet Download Manager's original version you do not even need to worry about any virus. Small Download Size: IDM trial reset zip is less than 1MB [it's too small] so don't think about downloading cost download it like downloading an HD image. Support All Windows Version: You can use this tool in Windows 11/10/7/8 without thinking about computer architecture i.e. 64-bit and 32-bit. so you can use IDM trial reset 64-bit in 32-bit Windows version too because it supports both. FAQs Is the IDM Trial Reset tool safe to use? Yes, J2TEAM, is a renowned developer team that built this useful tool and it is completely safe to use as I have been using it since 2020. Never get any error. Is IDM Reset Trial the only way to register IDM FREE? No, You can use IDM Crack and Serial Key to activate it.
    Downloads: 838 This Week
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  • 12
    AMTEmu Adobe AI 2024 Universal Patcher

    AMTEmu Adobe AI 2024 Universal Patcher

    AMTEmu Adobe AI 2024 Universal Unlock all Adobe products on Windows.

    Password = AMTEmu AMTEmu Adobe AI 2024 Universal Patcher Full Version Features: Universal Patch: Unlock all Adobe products on Windows Automate the unlocking process, save time and effort Entirely compatible with Adobe Creative Cloud and Creative Suite Patch thousands of Adobe products (Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, etc.) Works with all Adobe versions, and can be used to unpatch products as well Supports 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows Easy-to-use user interface with simple navigation Offline patching mode for when an internet connection is unavailable Seamlessly integrates with your existing Adobe software for maximum efficiency Security features to ensure the highest level of safety Ability to mark patched products so they are not patched again
    Downloads: 405 This Week
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  • 13
    Fluxbox
    Fluxbox is a X11 windowmanager build for speed and flexibility.
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    Downloads: 142 This Week
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  • 14

    Rename-It!

    Windows software to safely rename of thousands of files via regex.

    Define some filters to apply to a list of files, which can be in multiple folders, to rename the whole list at once. It checks the file names, integrates in the Shell (via Explorer context menu), supports regular expressions, ID3 tags, and much more. Moved to GitHub https://github.com/wernight/renameit/
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    Downloads: 130 This Week
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  • 15
    CDE - Common Desktop Environment

    CDE - Common Desktop Environment

    The Common Desktop Environment, the classic UNIX desktop

    The Common Desktop Environment was created by a collaboration of Sun, HP, IBM, DEC, SCO, Fujitsu and Hitachi. Used on a selection of commercial UNIXs, it is now available as open-source software for the first time. For support, see: https://sourceforge.net/p/cdesktopenv/wiki/Home/
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    Downloads: 91 This Week
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  • 16
    WinSize2
    WinSize: Move windows automatically to a predefined place. Resize width and/or height. Moving OR changing size possible. Supports text CONTAINED in titles (like "Notepad") to identify window. One hotkey for all fcts. Multi lang. support; Handbook:EN+DE
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    Downloads: 163 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 17
    SmartSystemMenu

    SmartSystemMenu

    Extends system menu of all windows in the system

    SmartSystemMenu extends system menu of all windows in the system.
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    Downloads: 144 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 18
    Menu Maker is 100% Python heuristics-driven menu generator for a number of X Window Managers and desktop environments. It features large knowledge base of known programs, powerful and flexible search algorithms, persistence of menus across several WMs
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    Downloads: 95 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 19
    Lilidog

    Lilidog

    Lightweight and stable Debian based Linux distro with Openbox.

    Lilidog Linux is a lightweight, full featured distribution based on Debian stable with the Openbox window manager. Available versions: Full - (Approx. 1300 packages), comes with everything necessary to get started. Use the full version if looking for an 'out of the box' computing solution with everything you need. Minimal - (Approx. 1080 packages), has everything the full version does, minus most of the main packages so people can choose their own. This version is great for people that like to tinker. Beardog - (Approx. 920 packages), is the 'bare' version of lilidog, allowing users to choose most of what they want. A general knowledge of linux is recommended. i386 - (Approx. 1080 packages), - For 32 bit computers. Based from the Minimal build. Please click on "Files" and then "Releases" for further information and download options. Website: https://lilidog.org/ Forum: https://forum.lilidog.org
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    Downloads: 75 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 20
    Window Maker Live

    Window Maker Live

    Window Maker Live Linux Distribution

    The Window Maker Live DVD is an installable Linux live ISO, and is based mostly on the recently released “Bookworm” branch of Debian. It relies on the Window Maker window manager as its default graphical user interface. It can also be considered as an alternative installation medium for Debian/Bookworm. As such, wmlive is fully compatible with and relies on the official Debian/Bookworm repositories for security updates and bug fixes. ISO images of "Window Maker Live" and its source code are provided "as is" without any promise for fitness for a particular purpose. There is no warranty or support provided whatsoever. If it breaks anything you are entitled to keep the broken pieces and fix them yourself.
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    Downloads: 96 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 21
    Circle Dock
    A circular, oval, and spiral dock for Windows implemented in .Net using C#. It is based on the idea of pie menus but in a dock form. Official Hompage: http://circledock.wikidot.com
    Downloads: 54 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 22
    komorebi

    komorebi

    A tiling window manager for Windows

    komorebi is a tiling window manager that works as an extension to Microsoft's Desktop Window Manager in Windows 10 and above. komorebi allows you to control application windows, virtual workspaces and display monitors with a CLI which can be used with third-party software such as AutoHotKey to set user-defined keyboard shortcuts. komorebi aims to make as few modifications as possible to the operating system and desktop environment by default. Users are free to make such modifications in their own configuration files for komorebi, but these will remain opt-in and off by default for the foreseeable future.
    Downloads: 2 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 23
    The IceWM Control Center allows you to run various tools for configuring IceWM's options. It contains menu/toolbar editor, winoptions editor, keys editor, themes switcher and some other tools. It supports themes, so you can add new (or replace exist
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    Downloads: 134 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 24
    The docking library for .Net Windows Forms development which mimics Visual Studio .Net.
    Downloads: 25 This Week
    Last Update:
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  • 25
    Macbuntu
    Mac OS X Transformation Pack. Macbuntu is an open-source program, designed to transform Linux’s appearance and layout into a Mac OS X environment. Although Macbuntu is dedicated to Ubuntu Linux OS, it could be used in other OS based on Debian/GTK
    Downloads: 28 This Week
    Last Update:
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Guide to Open Source Window Managers

Open source window managers are programs that allow users to customize their computer desktop environment. They enable users to change the look and feel of their graphical user interface (GUI). While open source window managers are often used in conjunction with desktop environments, they can also be used without them. Open source window managers rely on a set of technologies such as the X Window System, which is an application programming interface (API) responsible for running applications and managing windows.

The most popular open source window managers are Compiz, Enlightenment and Fluxbox. Compiz is a lightweight window manager that offers features like 3D desktops, live wallpapers and eye candy animations. It also allows users to easily manage multiple windows at once through its tabbed-style approach and provides powerful keybinding capabilities. Enlightenment is another lightweight window manager that offers support for themes, widgets and customizable panels. Fluxbox is the oldest open source window manager and works with almost any UNIX-like operating system including Linux distributions. It uses a tabbed style approach similar to Compiz but has fewer features for customizing windows or using themes.

Other popular open source window managers include KWin, IceWM, Openbox, Window Maker and FVWM-Crystal. Kwin focuses on providing stability over flashiness; it's known as one of the most stable yet resource-friendly open source window managers available today. Ice WM was designed with simplicity in mind; however it still provides several options for configuration adjustments so users can make the most out of their computing experience by customizing things such as menus or keybindings available in this program. Openbox is very minimalistic yet highly configurable due to its wide range of customization options - even allowing access to code snippets within XML documents if needed. Finally FVWM-Crystal combines both minimalist aesthetics/functionality along with more advanced features like icon/desktop management provided by a companion daemon process called CetiXDAemon (a part of FVWM family since 2006.)
allowing great levels of control over your GUI environment while giving it more modern look than traditional low resource consuming systems like Icewm were capable of offering back then.

In short, open source window managers provide powerful tools for managing graphical user interfaces across different types of computers or operating systems – from light weight & fast programs like Compiz & Enlightenment all way up to visually pleaser solutions like FVWM Crystal. Ultimately these tools give power back into hands of end user - allowing him/her create personal experience tailored according specific needs.

What Features Do Open Source Window Managers Provide?

Open source Window Managers provide a variety of features and tools for users to customize their desktop environment, allowing for greater control and flexibility in how the user interacts with their machine. Below are some of the notable features provided by open source window managers:

  • Window Management: Open source window managers allow for better organization of windows on a desktop workspace, enabling users to easily switch between different windows or applications using keyboard shortcuts or mouse input. It also provides options for tiling windows side-by-side so that two programs can be used simultaneously and seamlessly.
  • Customization Options: Users have full control over the appearance of their desktop environment, including changing fonts and displaying wallpaper images, as well as adding support for third-party plugins like dock apps. Themes can also be applied to change the overall look and feel of the window manager.
  • Modular Design: Unlike closed-source solutions, open source window managers are inherently more modular in design, making it easier to add new features or modify existing ones without having to make changes in multiple places. This ensures that user tweaks remain intact even when upgrading to a newer version of the program.
  • Session Saving: Many open source programs provide session saving capabilities which allows users to save all currently open windows and applications upon logging out from one session and start up from where they left off during another one — no need for manual launching of every application after each restart or reboot.

What Are the Different Types of Open Source Window Managers?

  • Tiling: Tiling window managers are designed to be used entirely with the keyboard. They divide the screen into sections, which can be adjusted according to preference. Windows and applications are launched in ‘tiles’ that remain fixed by default, though they can be resized or moved around.
  • Dynamic: Dynamic window managers offer a combination of both tiling and floating features, providing users with maximum flexibility and control over how their windows are displayed. They give users the ability to resize and rearrange their windows as desired, while still making use of several tiling features like snap-to-grid placement and hotkey support.
  • Styles of Open Source Window Managers: Classic/Traditional: Traditional window managers focus on offering a familiar desktop experience akin to what users have become accustomed to through Windows or MacOS. Usually featuring a taskbar at the bottom of the screen for quick access to open applications, these styles take more from traditional desktop interfaces than any other type.
  • Minimalist/Lightweight: Minimalist window managers aim to keep things as simple as possible by presenting only the most necessary tools needed for basic computing tasks while using fewer resources than other manager types might require. They strive for minimalism in design and may even omit certain features altogether, such as icons or even buttons found on windows themselves.
  • Modern/Futuristic: Modern window managers stand out due to their sleek designs that feature highly customizable themes allowing users to make their setups look however they want them too (within reason). These styles also tend towards incorporating better support for alternative input methods such as touchscreens or styluses than more traditional alternatives might provide.

What Are the Benefits Provided by Open Source Window Managers?

  1. Increased Customization: Open source window managers offer users greater customization options than traditional ones. With open source window managers, users can customize the look and feel of their desktop environment by changing themes, colors, fonts, and other visual elements. They can also customize how windows behave and how applications interact with each other.
  2. Security Benefits: Because open source window managers are developed by an open-source community of developers who are committed to providing secure software solutions, they tend to be more secure than traditional window managers. Additionally, since updates and changes to the software are often available quickly from the community, any security issues can be identified and patched more easily.
  3. Support for Multiple Platforms: The majority of open source window managers support multiple operating systems such as Windows, Linux and Mac OS X. This allows users to run the same look-and-feel across multiple platforms without needing to make any changes or adjustments specific to each platform.
  4. Cost Savings: Since open source window managers are free software solutions they provide a huge cost savings compared with proprietary solutions that may have initial costs as well as additional licensing fees. Moreover, many companies find that making use of open source window managers saves them money in terms of reduced staff time spent on development and maintenance tasks associated with proprietary solutions.
  5. Reliability: Open source projects have generally proven themselves to be very reliable in terms of quality assurance testing process that are performed before releasing new versions or patches which helps reduce bugs from entering into production environments.

What Types of Users Use Open Source Window Managers?

  • Hobbyists: These users are typically interested in finding ways to customize and personalize the look and feel of their computer, often using open source window managers to do so.
  • Prosumer: These types of users are more likely to use an open source window manager than a regular user as they may be creating media or doing other tasks that require greater flexibility than a traditional window manager allows.
  • System Administrators: For system administrators, an open source window manager can provide all the features needed for running multiple applications at once with minimal resources required. This makes it attractive for larger organizations who need to manage many machines across multiple locations.
  • Multitaskers: Multitaskers tend to favor open source window managers for the sheer amount of customization options available. As multitasking is a common activity these days, being able to have multiple windows viewable simultaneously can be very helpful and efficient.
  • Power Users: People who consider themselves power users will appreciate the ability of an open source window manager to customize every aspect of their workspace environment, and even add new features when necessary. They like having full control over how their computer works - and looks.
  • Gamers: Gamers tend to prefer open source window managers due to its flexibility in setting up different gaming activities with hotkeys assigned specifically for each task needed during gameplay sessions. This can help them get faster response times while playing online or on LANs with friends or opponents

How Much Do Open Source Window Managers Cost?

Open source window managers typically don't have a cost associated with them as they are usually free to use. Many popular window managers that are open sourced, such as GNOME, KDE, and Xfce, can be downloaded without any monetary investment. If you do choose to purchase a commercial version of an open source window manager, the pricing will vary depending on which program you select and the features included in the software. Generally speaking, most open source window manager platforms are available for free to download and install on your computer system.

However, some developers may offer paid support services or may provide additional features at an additional cost. Additionally, if you need premium features like custom skins or more powerful tools then these may also require a payment up front. Exact costs will depend upon your specific needs and requirements for the project so it’s important to research options before purchasing or downloading any particular software package.

What Software Can Integrate With Open Source Window Managers?

Open source window managers can be integrated with various types of software, such as productivity and multimedia applications, graphics and web development tools, and system monitoring utilities. Productivity software typically integrates well with open source window managers, allowing users to work more effectively within the UI environment. These applications often provide capabilities such as text editing, spreadsheets and database management. Multimedia applications such as audio players or video editors also integrate easily with open source window managers, allowing users to access their media library while taking advantage of features such as hotkeys or drag-and-drop operations. Graphics applications like image viewers or design programs are usually compatible with open source window managers too, providing a streamlined user experience for working with digital images or vector shapes. Web development tools are often designed to work in tandem with open source window managers too, so that developers can focus on creating websites without having to worry about dealing with compatibility issues. Finally, system monitoring utilities like task schedulers or network analysis apps can be set up to run consistently in conjunction with an open source window manager for detailed performance tracking and optimization.

Recent Trends Related to Open Source Window Managers

  1. Increased Popularity: Open source window managers have become increasingly popular in recent years, due to their flexibility and customizability. They are often seen as a great alternative to more expensive, proprietary window managers.
  2. Increasing Features: As open source window managers become more widely used, more developers are creating more features for them. These features include things like better window management, improved keyboard shortcuts and hotkeys, and improved support for multiple monitors.
  3. Improved Performance: Open source window managers are becoming increasingly efficient and responsive, making them suitable for use in a variety of different settings. This is especially important for those who need their computer to work quickly and efficiently.
  4. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Many open source window managers are now compatible with multiple operating systems, meaning that users can use the same software across different platforms. This makes it easy to switch between computers without having to reinstall the software each time.
  5. Easier Configuration: Open source window managers are typically easier to configure than their proprietary counterparts, making them ideal for those who want to customize their setup without having to dive into complex menus or settings.
  6. Increased Security: Open source window managers often offer better security than proprietary solutions, as they are constantly being updated with the latest fixes and patches. This means that users can rest assured that their data is safe from malicious attackers.

How To Get Started With Open Source Window Managers

  1. Getting started with open source window managers is relatively simple. The first step for users to take is to download the necessary software. Most open source window managers are available from their respective websites, and some may also be downloaded through various app stores. Once the software has been downloaded, it will need to be installed on the user's computer or device.
  2. The second step in getting started with an open-source window manager is to familiarize oneself with how they work. Many of these window managers feature visual themes, which offer a variety of customization options and can greatly improve the user experience. Windows can also be resized and set up to display multiple applications at once, allowing users to easily multitask across different programs and windows. Other features such as manual positioning of opened apps, keyboard shortcuts, taskbar settings and desktop wallpapers should also be explored.
  3. The third step towards mastering open source window managers is to become familiar with popular keyboard shortcuts that allow for easy navigation within windows without having to use a mouse or trackpad. Using shortcuts can make navigating through windows much faster than using traditional methods like click & drag or point & click controls found in most operating systems today.
  4. Finally, users should explore the vast array of plugins and add-ons that are available for many open source window managers - these third-party programs often expand upon what’s already built into the operating system by adding additional functions and customizations that would otherwise only exist on more powerful software suites like Photoshop or Illustrator. With so many options at your disposal there’s no excuse not to find something you like when using an open source window manager.