Caja

Overview

Caja is the default file manager for the MATE Desktop Environment, a continuation of GNOME 2. It provides a straightforward interface for managing local and remote filesystems, including SSH, FTP, and WebDAV connections. Caja handles standard file operations—creating folders, searching files, managing permissions—while also managing the desktop background and application launchers. The application emphasizes spatial mode navigation where folder windows remember their position and size, appealing to users who prefer a traditional file management workflow.

Key Features

• Local and Remote Filesystem Access - Supports SSH, FTP, and WebDAV (HTTP/HTTPS) connections for accessing remote storage
• Spatial Mode Navigation - File windows remember their position and size, allowing users to organize multiple folder windows spatially
• Desktop Integration - Manages desktop background, application launchers, and provides access to trash and removable media
• File Search and Organization - Built-in search functionality and folder hierarchy management for organizing files
• Emblems and Visual Labels - Customizable emblems available through Edit menu to visually distinguish files and folders
• Navigation History - Maintains history of visited folders and locations with quick access to recent items
• Drag and Drop Support - Supports dragging files between windows and folders for easy file manipulation
• Media Management - Write data to CD/DVD/BD and manage USB drives and other removable media

Pricing

Platforms & Requirements

Caja runs on Linux systems as part of the MATE Desktop Environment. It is available on distributions including Ubuntu MATE, Linux Mint MATE, and other MATE-based systems. The application requires GTK 3 toolkit and MATE desktop components.

Integrations & Ecosystem

• SSH filesystem access
• FTP connections
• WebDAV (HTTP/HTTPS) remote storage
• CD/DVD/BD writing
• USB drive management
• Font installation and management
• Script execution
• Application launching

Alternatives

Reputation

Caja is regarded as a simple yet robust file manager that successfully recreates the GNOME 2 experience for users preferring traditional spatial navigation. Users appreciate its clear layout, configurability, and inviting interface that accommodates different workflows. The application is stable and well-maintained as part of the MATE project, though it lacks some modern features found in contemporary file managers. Its strength lies in familiarity and predictability rather than innovation or advanced functionality.