Linux Web Design Software

 

Linux users may have noticed that when it comes to software solutions, the options (at least in terms of big name companies) are considerably fewer.  This is also the case with web design software.  Microsoft, one of the leaders in the web development implementation, does not support the Linux platform.  Macromedia Dreamweaver isn’t made to run on Linux, although it does run pretty well on certain distributions with the use of Linux emulators and special applications for allowing Windows to run sow (CrossOver Office or WINE).  So outside

Bluefish

Another very popular web design application for Linux is Bluefish.  It supports a vast number of languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, XML, and more), although FTP integration is not supported.  Bluefish is not considered a appropriate application for beginners, as it it’s considered a WYSIWYN program (“what you see is what you need”)—meaning that while you can’t see what you’re designing, the tools you need to build an outstanding website are all right there.  Some people have reported problems with syntax highlighting, but overall, most people like it.

Nvu

Nvu is a cross-platform, open source application which runs on Windows, Macintosh, and Linux operating systems.  The interface is similar to Mozilla, the program it’s based on.  The program was designed to be a rival to Dreamweaver and Expression (previously FrontPage).  Like most open source software, it is free to use.  Nvu is fully functional in WYSIWYG unlike some applications.  Nvu doesn’t support PHP and other server-side programming languages, but it does support CSS and creating forms.  Development of this application ended in 2006, but the product is still available.  An application inspired by and similar to Nvu (KompoZer) was created once Nvu development ended.

Quanta Plus

Here’s a nice HTML editor which can run in both WYSIWYG and hand-coding modes.  Like Bluefish, it supports a host of languages.  It also supports features like plug-in support and templates.  It includes syntax checking and highlighting.  Quanta also provides support for its users.  You should give it a try if you’re looking at Linux web design programs.

Additional Web Design Related Applications

  • FTP Programs: An FTP program allows a person to upload locally saved web pages to a remote web server.  gFTP and Konqueror are two Linux-based FTP programs.
  • Web Hosting: In order for others to see your web site, you must upload your pages to a web host (web server).  Your best bet is probably the inexpensive Site5 for Linux.
  • Web Graphics: Graphics include photos and clip art used.  For photos, you can create image slices using an image editor called GIMP.  For vector images, clip art, and such, you’ll want to check out Inkscape.

 Other Tools:  Klink Status can check a site for broken links.

 

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