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Auto-Hide Dock in Ubuntu Linux: A Step-by-Step Guide

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 28, 2022 Updated Mar 21, 2026 1 min read
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You auto-hide the Ubuntu Dock when a window overlaps it by changing a simple setting in Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and newer.

The Ubuntu Dock, which functions similarly to a Windows taskbar, displays your running apps and favorite icons. Auto-hiding it means the Dock cleverly disappears when an application window comes near, giving you more screen real estate.

This prevents accidental clicks and keeps your view unobstructed. Unlike older methods that hid the Dock when inactive, the modern approach intelligently detects overlapping windows.

Follow these steps, and you’ll gain this screen-saving enhancement in moments.

⚡ Quick Answer

Auto-hide the Dock in Ubuntu by opening Settings, clicking Appearance, and toggling “Auto-hide the Dock” to the On position. This will make the Dock disappear when a window overlaps it.

How to auto-hide the Dock in Ubuntu Linux

As mentioned above, you can configure Ubuntu Linux to hide the Dock automatically once any window overlaps with it.

Here’s how to do that.

You can find most Ubuntu Linux settings in one place: the System Settings panel. This is where you manage everything from system configurations (like how your computer operates) to creating new users and updating software.

Ubuntu Linux activities overview with Dock visible
ubuntu linux activities overview

Alternatively, click on the System menu at the top-right corner of the top bar on your desktop.

On the System menu, select Settings, as highlighted below.

Ubuntu Linux system menu showing Settings option
ubuntu linux system menu top bar settings

Click on the Appearance tile to open the panel in the Settings app.

Ubuntu Linux Appearance tile in System Settings
ubuntu linux appearance tile system settings

In the System Settings -> Appearance panel, under Dock, toggle the switch button for Auto-hide the Dock to On or Off to enable or disable the Dock automatically when a window overlaps with it.

Ubuntu Linux Dock auto-hide setting toggle
ubuntu linux auto hide dock

That should do it!

Conclusion:

  • Configuring the Dock to hide when a window overlaps with it automatically can improve screen space utilization in Ubuntu Linux.
  • The step-by-step guide provided easy-to-follow instructions for toggling the “Auto-hide the Dock” setting in the System Settings panel.
  • Users can now effortlessly manage the visibility of the Dock based on their preferences.

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Richard

About the Author

Richard

Tech Writer, IT Professional

Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.

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