How to use the command 'waybar' (with examples)

Waybar is a highly customizable status bar specifically designed for Wayland, an alternative to the traditional X11 windowing system. It’s compatible with Sway, a popular compositor for Wayland, and other wlroots-based compositors. It offers flexibility for users to tailor the appearance and functionality of their status bar to meet their personal or professional needs.

Use case 1: Start Waybar with the default configuration and stylesheet

Code:

waybar

Motivation:

Starting Waybar with the default configuration is the quickest and easiest way to get it up and running. This use case is ideal for users who are setting up Waybar for the first time and want to see its default behavior and style. By using the default settings, users can familiarize themselves with the basic functionalities and layout without altering any configuration files.

Explanation:

• waybar: Running the waybar command by itself utilizes the embedded default settings provided by the software. This includes standard configuration and styling that offers a balanced starting point for most users.

Example Output:

Upon execution, Waybar launches and displays a status bar at the top or bottom of the screen (depending on the default). It includes modules like clock, workspace buttons, and system resource indicators, styled with a neutral color theme.

Use case 2: Use a different configuration file

Code:

waybar -c path/to/config.jsonc

or

waybar --config path/to/config.jsonc

Motivation:

This use case is valuable for users who need specific functionalities or want a tailored user experience beyond the default configuration. Modifying the configuration file allows users to define the layout, choose which modules to display, and adjust their behaviors, fitting their unique requirements or preferences.

Explanation:

• -c|--config path/to/config.jsonc: This option allows the user to specify a custom configuration file located at path/to/config.jsonc. The configuration file in JSONC (JSON with comments) format provides a structured way to define settings for Waybar’s operations, such as defining modules, their order, updates interval, and other behavioral aspects.

Example Output:

Executing this command results in Waybar adopting the layout, modules, and settings specified in the given config.jsonc file, creating a personalized status bar environment.

Use case 3: Use a different stylesheet file

Code:

waybar -s path/to/stylesheet.css

or

waybar --style path/to/stylesheet.css

Motivation:

Users who prioritize design and aesthetics often demand flexibility in appearance. This use case caters to such individuals by allowing them to customize the visual aspects of Waybar extensively. By using an external stylesheet, users can control aspects like fonts, colors, spacing, and overall theme.

Explanation:

• -s|--style path/to/stylesheet.css: This option specifies the path to a custom CSS file, which Waybar will use to style its components. This enables users to apply consistent branding, improve readability, or simply express personal creativity through styling.

Example Output:

With this command, Waybar appears styled according to the rules defined in stylesheet.css, showcasing customized visual details such as font color, background color, size, and spacing adjustments.

Use case 4: Set the logging level

Code:

waybar -l info

or

waybar --log-level debug

Motivation:

Debugging and system monitoring are crucial for diagnosing issues or understanding system behavior. This use case allows developers or system administrators to adjust the verbosity of logs generated by Waybar. Depending on the need, users can obtain simple operational success messages or detailed logs necessary for debugging errors.

Explanation:

• -l|--log-level: This argument sets the verbosity level of logs produced by Waybar. Levels range from trace (most detailed) to off (no logging). Choosing a higher verbosity level like debug or trace can help in troubleshooting issues by providing comprehensive logs.

Example Output:

When executed, Waybar exhibits log messages corresponding to the set level. For info, general operational messages are logged, providing insights into normal system operations without overwhelming details.

Conclusion:

Through these examples, the Waybar command reveals extensive capabilities for personalization and system monitoring. Whether you’re a beginner just looking to start with default settings, or an advanced user crafting a meticulously tailored status bar environment, Waybar offers the flexibility needed in a Wayland-based workspace.