How to Remove Dock in Ubuntu 24.04 or 22.04 LTS Linux

Published On - April 30, 2025

Olivia Brown Blog

Ubuntu 22.04 LTS and the newer 24.04 LTS releases both include a prominent left-side dock (also known as the Ubuntu Dock), which allows quick access to favorite and running applications. While useful for many users, others may prefer a cleaner, minimal desktop or prefer alternative dock solutions. If you’re one of those users, this guide will walk you through several reliable and safe ways to remove or disable the Dock in Ubuntu 22.04 or 24.04 LTS.

Understanding the Dock in Ubuntu

The Ubuntu Dock is a modified version of the GNOME Shell Dash-to-Dock extension. It’s integrated tightly into Ubuntu and doesn’t show up as a separately installed application. This makes removing it slightly more involved compared to disabling a standalone dock app.

Method 1: Completely Remove Ubuntu Dock

This method is for users who want the Dock gone completely—out of sight and out of system memory. Please note that this is a system-level change and should be performed with caution.

  1. Open a terminal using Ctrl + Alt + T.
  2. Run the following command to remove the Ubuntu Dock package:
sudo apt remove gnome-shell-extension-ubuntu-dock

After removal, restart the GNOME Shell (you can log out and log back in, or just reboot your computer).

Important: Removing the Ubuntu Dock might make the user interface feel incomplete if you do not install an alternative dock or launcher. If you rely on accessing running apps or pinned apps from the dock, consider other options like Dash to Dock or Plank.

Method 2: Disable Ubuntu Dock Using GNOME Extensions

If you wish to simply disable the Dock but leave it installed (so it can be easily re-enabled later), use the built-in GNOME extension system. This is safer and fully reversible.

  1. Install the GNOME Extensions app if it isn’t already installed:
sudo apt install gnome-shell-extension-prefs
  1. Once installed, press Super key and search for Extensions.
  2. In the Extensions settings, locate Ubuntu Dock and toggle it off.

This will hide the Dock immediately. You can enable it again later by toggling it back on.

Method 3: Hide the Dock Automatically

If you want the Dock to be hidden, but still accessible when needed, automatic hide might be a good compromise. Here’s how to enable it:

  1. Go to Settings → Appearance.
  2. Enable Auto-hide the Dock.
  3. Adjust the sensitivity and dock position as needed.

This keeps your desktop clean but still gives you dock access when you move your mouse to its edge. Ideal for users who want both functionality and minimalism.

Alternative Dock Options

If you uninstall the default Dock, you may want a replacement. Here are a few well-supported options:

  • Dash to Dock – This GNOME Shell extension gives more customization power over the original dock.
  • Plank – Lightweight and highly configurable with a Mac-like appearance.
  • Cairo Dock – Feature-rich desktop interface dock.

To install Plank, for example:

sudo apt install plank

After installation, launch Plank from the application menu. You can add it to your startup applications to start automatically.

Keep Your System Stable

Modifying core components like the Dock in Ubuntu changes how your desktop behaves. Before removing or replacing functionality, ensure that you have backups and know how to undo the changes. If you’re working in a production environment or on important systems, prefer disabling over full removal.

Also, note that during a major upgrade (e.g., from 22.04 to 24.04), removed system components like Ubuntu Dock may be restored. Check post-upgrade settings if the Dock reappears unexpectedly.

Conclusion

While Ubuntu’s Dock is tightly integrated into the desktop environment, users who value customization have multiple paths to alter or remove it. Whether you choose a complete removal, a simple disable, or auto-hide configuration depends on your goals. Be cautious, make backups, and enjoy a cleaner Ubuntu desktop tailored to your own workflow.

For advanced customization and more GNOME tweaks, consider installing GNOME Tweaks with:

sudo apt install gnome-tweaks

This tool offers more control over various aspects of GNOME Shell, including extensions, fonts, and workspace behavior.