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

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

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.

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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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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