# Introduction to the Linux Mint Desktop

This section of the guide will focus on the technologies and the tools that are specific to Linux Mint and provide information on some of the applications and technologies included by default in the MATE Edition.

## The Welcome Screen

The first time you start your newly installed Mate desktop (and every other time until you choose to uncheck the checkbox on the bottom) you'll see the Welcome Screen. You can also find this screen when scrolling to the bottom of the Preferences menu or by starting to type “Wel” in the Search-bar.

### Welcome Screen

Do take a look at this screen, it has a lot of interesting links!! You can find a link to the User guide there (yeah I know, you're already reading it). But also you can put the information of your machine in the Hardware database. Or you can ask questions in the Forums (or answer them of course). And Important information is Important too!