1. Install Debian (The Boring Part)

Boot the Debian 13 installer and go through it as usual:

  • Language, locale, keyboard — whatever
  • Network — wired is easier, Wi‑Fi works too
  • Disk partitioning — guided/manual, your call
  • User & root password — don’t be dumb

Important Step: Software Selection

When you reach Software selection:

  • Uncheck EVERYTHING

    • Debian desktop environment
    • GNOME / KDE / XFCE / whatever
    • Web server, SSH, standard system utilities

Yes, everything. You want a clean, minimal system.

Finish the installation and reboot.

Congrats. You now have a black screen and a login prompt. That’s the point.

2. Login and Update System

Log in with your user (or root if you enjoy bad habits), then:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

3. Install XFCE Desktop

Install XFCE manually, without Debian’s bloated meta-desktop nonsense:

sudo apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies lightdm

Set LightDM as default display manager if asked.

Enable and start it:

sudo systemctl enable lightdm
sudo systemctl start lightdm

Reboot if you want to be dramatic:

sudo reboot

You should now boot into a clean XFCE desktop. No GNOME garbage. No KDE fireworks.

4. Install Bluetooth Support

Debian minimal = no Bluetooth, obviously.

Install required packages:

sudo apt install -y bluetooth bluez blueman

Enable Bluetooth service:

sudo systemctl enable bluetooth
sudo systemctl start bluetooth

Optional but recommended (for laptops):

sudo usermod -aG bluetooth $USER

Log out and back in.

5. Blueman (GUI Bluetooth Manager)

Blueman should auto-start in XFCE. If not:

  • Open Settings → Session and Startup → Application Autostart

  • Add:

    • Name: Blueman Applet
    • Command: blueman-applet

Now you can pair headphones, keyboards, mice like a normal human.

6. Result

You now have:

  • Debian 13
  • Minimal base system
  • XFCE desktop (fast, boring, reliable)
  • Working Bluetooth with GUI

No bloat. No mystery services. No regrets.

Notes

  • If you want Wi‑Fi tools later: network-manager
  • If you want sound: pipewire or pulseaudio
  • If you want fewer packages: stop installing random crap

That’s it. Keep it minimal. Keep it sane.