By Rahul kumar | Updated on June 30, 2025
Introduction: What is the Super Key?
New to Linux and wondering what the “Super key” is? You’re not alone. The Super key is one of the most frequently mentioned but least explained keys in Linux documentation.
Simply put, the Super key is the key usually labeled with the Windows logo on your keyboard. It’s used to open application menus, launch search functions, and trigger useful keyboard shortcuts.
Where Is the Super Key Located?
The Super key is typically found between the Ctrl and Alt keys on the bottom-left of your keyboard. On most modern keyboards, it’s the same as the Windows key you’d use on a Windows PC.
Some keyboards, especially those made for Linux systems like System76 or Tuxedo, might have a Linux logo instead of the Windows logo, but it functions the same way.
What Does the Super Key Do in Linux?
The function of the Super key depends on your Linux desktop environment. Here are some common examples:
▶ Ubuntu (GNOME Desktop)
- Super: Opens the Activities overview.
- Super + A: Opens the Applications menu.
- Super + Arrow keys: Snap windows left, right, or maximize.
▶ Linux Mint (Cinnamon Desktop)
- Super: Opens the start menu.
- Super + E: Opens the file manager.
▶ KDE Plasma
- Super: Opens the Kickoff application launcher (similar to Start Menu).
- Super + D: Minimizes all windows to show desktop.
How to Customize the Super Key
Linux allows you to fully customize what the Super key does. Here’s how to do it in some popular desktop environments:
🛠 In Ubuntu (GNOME)
Settings → Keyboard ShortcutsHere, you can assign new shortcuts to Super + any key combination.
🛠 In Linux Mint (Cinnamon)
Menu → Preferences → Keyboard → ShortcutsFind or add a shortcut using the Super key for quick actions.
Can You Remap the Super Key?
Yes! Advanced users can remap or disable the Super key using tools like:
- xmodmap: For custom keybindings.
- GNOME Tweaks: For GNOME desktop modifications.
- Autokey or Input Remapper: GUI-based customization tools.
Example: To disable the Super key using xmodmap:
xmodmap -e "remove mod4 = Super_L"Note: You can always reset or reconfigure later.
Why Linux Calls It the “Super” Key
Unlike Windows, Linux is built to run on many different types of hardware. Not all keyboards have a “Windows” logo. So, Linux uses the term “Super” as a universal name for that key — independent of branding.
This avoids confusion and makes Linux documentation consistent across distros and devices.
Conclusion
The Super key in Linux is more than just a renamed Windows key — it’s a powerful shortcut tool that enhances your desktop experience. Whether you’re opening applications, managing windows, or setting up custom actions, the Super key is a central part of the Linux workflow.
Now that you know what it is and how to use it, try exploring and customizing it to suit your daily tasks!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Super key the same as the Windows key? Yes. In most cases, the Super key is the Windows key on standard keyboards. What if my keyboard doesn’t have a Windows key? You can assign another key as Super using keyboard mapping tools like xmodmap or GNOME Tweaks. Can I disable the Super key in Linux? Yes, using customization tools or terminal commands like xmodmap. Does the Super key work the same on all Linux desktops? No, its default behavior varies by desktop environment (GNOME, Cinnamon, KDE, etc.), but it’s always customizable.
Posted by: NarayanaSchool.org
