This step-by-step guide explains how to add custom programs, standalone binaries, or app images directly into your Linux Application Launcher (Start Menu). Linux desktops (such as COSMIC, GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, and Cinnamon) follow a unified system standard. Creating a single .desktop shortcut file works universally across almost all layout environments.
Step 1: Create a New Shortcut File ➥
Create a new configuration text file named after your program. For example, if you are setting up a tool named “my-app”:
cd ~/.local/share/applications
nano my-app.desktop
Step 2: Paste and Edit the Shortcut Template ➥
Paste the following block of code into the text editor. Make sure to change the placeholder paths to match your exact program configuration:
[Desktop Entry]
Type=Application
Version=1.0
Name=My Application Name
Comment=A brief description of my app
Exec=/path/to/your/program-folder/executable_file
Icon=/path/to/your/icon-folder/icon.png
Terminal=false
Categories=Utility;Development;
- Name: The actual text that displays below the icon in your application grid.
- Exec: The absolute file path pointing directly to your program’s executable file.
- Icon: (Optional) The absolute path to a .png or .svg image to use as your menu logo.
- Terminal: Set to true if your tool requires a terminal window to run; otherwise, leave it as false.
Step 3: Save and Grant Execution Permissions ➥
chmod +x my-app.desktop
The application will instantly register and appear when you press your Super (Windows) key to search your desktop launcher.
