The file manager contains a preference that enables users to use the file manager to manage the desktop background. You can disable the desktop background to improve performance. However, if you disable the desktop background, you cannot do the following:
Use the Desktop Background menu.
Use the file manager to change the pattern or color of the desktop background.
Use desktop background objects, such as Trash. The desktop background objects are not displayed on the desktop background.
To disable the desktop background, execute the following command:
# gconftool-2 --type bool --set /apps/nautilus/preferences/show_desktop false