How to change the default file manager in Linux

To change the default file manager in Linux edit /usr/share/applications/defaults.list

$ sudo nano /usr/share/applications/defaults.list

Then search for “inode/directory”. In nano, press Ctrl-W to search.

It should look like this:

inode/directory=pcmanfm.desktop

Change the part after the equal sign to whatever file manager you prefer such as nautilus, thunar, nemo, dolphin, or pcmanfm. You’ll need to have the file manager you choose installed and a corresponding valid .desktop file in the /usr/share/applications directory.

inode/directory=nautilus.desktop

A guide on the Community Ubuntu Documentation for changing the default file manager also recommends setting the value of “x-directory/normal” as well.

2 thoughts on “How to change the default file manager in Linux

  1. I would like to have Kubuntu 10.04 completely installed on a thumb drive, so I can plug it into ANY computer and boot in Kubuntu. Does such a file exist?

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