What is Vifm (Vi File Manager)?
Vifmis a ncurses library based file manager for Linux which allows you to perform almost every file related task (like viewing, moving, deleting etc) right from the shell. It has no GUI, so each task needs to be performed using the keyboard. This might seem odd to some people, but it is beneficial in a way. And, if you are familiar withvi/vim, you will love this file manager as most of the keybindings arevi-like.
Why should you use it?
Here’s a good reason for that. Speed. It is all good to use a GUI file manager, but when you need things quick, without taking away your hands from the keyboard, you will need a good text based file manager. There are other text-based file manager too (like midnight commander), but I likeVifmmore as you don’t have learn a new set of key bindings for it (if you are familiar withvi).
In this tutorial, I’m going to tell you how to perform some very basic tasks usingVifm. Although, these commands are not even a handful compared to the operations thatVifmsupports, but these will help you get started withVifm(and also improve your command on the keyboard).
Download and Installation:
Vifmis available in the official repositories of the popular Linux distributions. In Arch, it is available asvifm, and you may install it by:
Same goes for Ubuntu and other distribution, just type the command you usually type for installing some software and replace the software name withvifm. Alternatively, you can get the source code from officialVifmwebsite, and build it locally on your computer.
When you are done installing, you can start it by typingvifmin your favorite terminalemulator. WhenVifmstarts, it presents you with two panes, each displaying a directory tree. The following is a list of some handy commands for some handy operations.
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Some basic file operations with Vifm:
Most commands work the same way as they do invi. Like pressing a number proceeded by ‘G’ moves you to that file in list etc.
It would take some before your hands get familiar with the key bindings. With practice and repetition, you may perform these tasks like a pro. I suppose these commands would be sufficient to get started withVifm.If you want more operations, just type ‘man vifm‘ in your terminal. It will present you with more information than you may ever need. Or you can visit Vifm online documentation.
If you need help with a particular command, or want to suggest an edit, just post a comment, I would love to help.
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