How to Use the Command 'betterlockscreen' (with Examples)

Betterlockscreen is a simple and minimal lock screen utility for Linux users. It provides an easy-to-use interface for locking your screen with customizable aesthetic options. This tool allows you to ensure your device’s security while also offering customization features for personalizing the lock screen’s appearance and behavior.

Lock the Screen

Code:

betterlockscreen --lock

Motivation:

Locking your screen when you step away from your computer is an essential security measure. It prevents unauthorized access to your files and applications, ensuring that your personal or sensitive information remains protected. The betterlockscreen --lock command provides a quick and efficient way to secure your system with a straightforward command.

Explanation:

• betterlockscreen: This is the main command used to invoke the betterlockscreen utility.
• --lock: This flag tells betterlockscreen to lock the screen immediately. It is a simple command without additional customization options, perfect for users looking for a quick screen lock solution.

Example Output:

Upon executing the command, your screen will immediately lock, displaying the default lock screen background and securing your session.

Change the Lock Screen Background

Code:

betterlockscreen -u path/to/image.png

Motivation:

Personalizing your lock screen can make your computing environment more enjoyable and tailored to your tastes. By changing the background image, you can infuse a bit of personality or maintain a thematic aesthetic across your devices. This command is valuable for users who like to frequently update or customize their visual environment.

Explanation:

• betterlockscreen: This is the primary command to initiate the betterlockscreen functionality.
• -u: This flag is used to update the lock screen background.
• path/to/image.png: Replace this with the actual path to the image file you wish to set as your lock screen background. The command processes the image and applies it as the new background.

Example Output:

After running this command with a valid image path, your lock screen will now feature the selected image as its background, visible whenever you initiate a lock.

Lock the Screen, Showing Some Custom Text

Code:

betterlockscreen -l pixel -t "custom lock screen text"

Motivation:

Adding custom text to your lock screen can serve various purposes, such as providing a motivational quote, displaying a contact number in case of loss, or simply adding a creative touch. This feature caters to users who enjoy a bit more functionality or personalization on their lock screen.

Explanation:

• betterlockscreen: The command used to access and manage the betterlockscreen utility.
• -l pixel: The -l flag is followed by “pixel”, which refers to the locking style or mechanism being used by betterlockscreen.
• -t "custom lock screen text": The -t flag stands for “text”. It allows you to input custom text that will be displayed on the lock screen. Replace “custom lock screen text” with whatever message or text you deem fit.

Example Output:

Executing this command results in your lock screen displaying not only the lock background but also the custom text you specified, offering both security and personalized flair.

Lock the Screen, with a Custom Monitor Off Timeout in Seconds

Code:

betterlockscreen --off 5 -l

Motivation:

Saving energy and prolonging the life of your monitor are good practices, both for environmental sustainability and hardware longevity. By setting a custom time after which the monitor turns off, you reduce unnecessary power consumption when you’re away from your computer for extended periods. This command is particularly useful for users conscious about energy efficiency.

Explanation:

• betterlockscreen: Initiates the betterlockscreen command.
• --off 5: The --off flag specifies the duration (in seconds) before the monitor turns off after locking. In this example, the timer is set to 5 seconds.
• -l: This argument is used to lock the screen, endorsing the security intention behind the command.

Example Output:

Your computer screen will lock instantly upon running the command, and after five seconds of inactivity, the monitor will automatically turn off, entering an energy-saving mode.

Conclusion:

The betterlockscreen utility provides Linux users with a versatile tool for locking their screens with added customization options. Whether your goal is enhancing security, personalizing aesthetics, or optimizing energy use, betterlockscreen offers a straightforward command-line interface for addressing these needs efficiently. Through the examples provided, users can see the flexibility and practical benefits this utility provides.