KWin Rules

Overview

KWin allows the end-user to define rules to alter the behavior of applications.

Tip

Plasmoids, Workspaces can also be affected.

For example, when an application is started, it can be forced to always run on Virtual Desktop #2. Or a defect in an application can be worked-around by using a rule to, say, always force the window on top of all others.

This page will define the different settings and the attributes. For the impatient folks, working examples will be listed. Whenever possible, screen shots will be used to show example settings.

Rule Evaluation

KWin evaluates the rules when an application starts. Any matching rule's attribute(s) override the application's corresponding attribute(s).

After editing rules, any matching windows will be immediately affected.

KWin Rule Editor

Invoking the Editor

There are several ways one can invoke the Rules editor. Below are a couple:

• Right-click on the title-bar of any window, choosing Configure Window Behavior ... and in the Configure window, selecting Window Rules or
• Configure Desktop -> Window Behavior -> Window Rules

KWin Rule Editor Anatomy

The editor is comprised of four tabs:

1. Window matching
2. Size & Position
3. Arrangement & Access
4. Appearance & Fixes

As the name implies, Window matching is used to specify criteria to match one or more windows. The other three tabs are used to alter the window's characteristics.

Examples

Force a Window to the Top

Good for knotes