XScreenSaver Review

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Review of XScreenSaver powered by the Slant community.

XScreenSaver is the standard screen saver collection shipped on most Linux and Unix systems running X11. It is both a large collection of screen savers; and it is also the framework for blanking and locking the screen.

Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking

What are the best screen-savers / screen lockers for UNIX-like systems?

Pros

Pro
Many options to choose from

Pro
Also works with xfce screensaver

...although it will make your multiscreen return to mirrors screens afterwards.

Pro
Has a good security model

Runs as a daemon with non-root display modes.... See here.

Cons

Con
Bad security design

Xscreensaver does not grab the keyboard immediately and in all cases. It also does not blank the screen immediately after an unsuspend. This means that a) you might post your password in a chat if you had it focused before the screen lcoked, b) anyone can see your screen if they just open your machine.