To disable specific Super key shortcuts in Cinnamon, particularly those used for switching or opening applications through the Grouped Window List applet, follow a straightforward configuration process. While the Super key (often referred to as the Windows key) primarily opens the Start Menu in Cinnamon, this method allows for granular control over its behavior when combined with other keys.
Disabling Super+ Shortcuts for App Switching in Cinnamon
If you find that Super+ key combinations are interfering with your workflow or you prefer to manage applications without these specific shortcuts, you can disable them within the Grouped Window List applet's settings. This applet is commonly used to group open windows for the same application on your panel.
Step-by-Step Guide to Disabling Grouped Window List Hot Keys
- Open the Start Menu: Click on your Start Menu icon, typically located in the bottom-left corner of your screen.
- Access Applets: From the Start Menu, navigate to and select 'Applets'. This will open a window where you can manage various small applications that integrate with your Cinnamon desktop panel.
- Locate 'Grouped Window List': In the 'Applets' window, go to the 'Manage' tab. Scroll through the list of installed applets until you find the 'Grouped Window List'.
- Configure the Applet: Click on the gear icon (configuration icon) next to 'Grouped Window List' to open its specific settings.
- Navigate to Hot Keys Settings: Within the 'Grouped Window List' configuration dialog, select the 'General' tab. Look for a section labeled 'Hot Keys'.
- Disable the Shortcut: Find the option titled 'Enable Super+ shortcut to switch/open apps'. Toggle this option to disable it.
Once disabled, the Super+ key combinations specifically managed by the Grouped Window List applet for switching between or opening applications will no longer be active.
Summary of Steps
| Step | Action | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Open Start Menu | Access the primary menu of your Cinnamon desktop. |
| 2 | Select 'Applets' | Navigate to the section for managing desktop applets. |
| 3 | Find 'Grouped Window List' | Locate this specific applet under the 'Manage' tab. |
| 4 | Click Gear Icon | Open the configuration settings for the 'Grouped Window List' applet. |
| 5 | Go to 'General' Tab | Access the general settings for the applet. |
| 6 | Locate 'Hot Keys' section | Find the section dedicated to keyboard shortcuts. |
| 7 | Toggle 'Enable Super+ shortcut...' Off | Disable the option that enables Super+ key combinations for app switching/opening via this applet. |
Understanding the Impact of Disabling Super+ Shortcuts
It's important to clarify that this procedure specifically disables Super+ hotkeys managed by the Grouped Window List applet. It does not disable the Super key's primary function of opening the Cinnamon Start Menu, nor does it affect other system-wide Super+ shortcuts configured elsewhere (e.g., for window tiling, workspace switching, or other system actions). This targeted approach allows you to prevent specific shortcut conflicts or unwanted behaviors while retaining the Super key's other functionalities.
For more information on customizing your Cinnamon desktop environment and managing applets, you can explore the Cinnamon Spices Applets page.
