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

Richard
Written by
Richard
Sep 28, 2022 Updated Jul 14, 2026 2 min read
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Auto-hiding the Ubuntu Dock when it overlaps with a window is a built-in feature you can easily control.

The Ubuntu Dock is the panel that holds your open applications and favorite icons, much like the Windows taskbar. Setting it to auto-hide makes it disappear automatically when an application window gets close, giving you more screen space.

This helpful setting, available in Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and later versions, prevents accidental clicks on the Dock and keeps your screen clear.

⚡ 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

The Ubuntu Dock auto-hides when it’s not in use; this is a setting. This auto-hide feature gives you more screen space and a cleaner desktop, especially when you juggle many open windows. This useful option is found in the main System Settings panel, making it easy to adjust.

Here’s how to do that.

Most Ubuntu Linux settings reside 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
💡Tip
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.

How to make Dock auto hide?

By default, it is off. To turn it on, you can see it hides straight away. Then, to access the dock, you need to move your cursor down.

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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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