8 Zorin OS settings I change on every new install - and why you should, too

Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google.

I'm a big fan of Zorin OS . I've compared the operating system to the likes of Linux Mint and AnduinOS and always found that it comes out on top. In short, 10 out of 10; would recommend.

Out of the box, Zorin OS looks and behaves great, but there are always tweaks and customizations to make the desktop OS better suited to your aesthetic or your workflow.

I want to show you the Zorin OS settings I always tweak for every installation.

Also: 8 most Windows-like Linux distros - if you're ready to ditch Microsoft

Do note that these modifications are a matter of taste. What I enjoy might not perfectly align with your requirements. However, I'm confident you'll want to use at least some of these tweaks.

One of the coolest tools found in Zorin OS is the Appearance tool. With Zorin Appearance, you can quickly change the desktop layout. The free version provides four layouts, and the Pro version ($47.99) gives double that.

But even the available options can be tweaked. For instance, you can take the default GNOME layout and easily turn it into a MacOS-like desktop. Each layout can be customized, so choose one and start tinkering until you get it exactly how you want.

The Zorin Appearance is one of the first tools I use.

If you're like me, you'll wind up changing the layout several times.

In every desktop I use, there's a dock at the bottom of the screen. I find docks incredibly efficient, and they also align with my aesthetic. Whether I'm on Linux or MacOS (sorry, Windows), there's a dock, and I use it extensively.

On Zorin OS, you can enable the Dash, which is similar to GNOME's Dash To Dock extension.

Also: I've tested so many Linux email clients - why I'm recommending Aerion above all else

With Zorin Dash, you can customize the dock in multiple ways to make it unique and effective. The Zorin Dash is also quite elegant and can be given a transparent look with ease.

Zorin Dash is a must for anyone who wants a dock on their desktop.

To enable Zorin Dash, open the Extensions app, scroll down, and click the On/Off slider associated with the feature until it's in the On position.