Where Does SDDM Store Config and Themes?
SDDM reads /etc/sddm.conf plus /etc/sddm.conf.d drop-ins. Themes live under /usr/share/sddm/themes.
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SDDM keeps a small config surface. One main file plus a drop-in folder covers theme, autologin, and Wayland versus X11 choice. Theme assets live separately under the share folder.
Drop-ins beat editing the shipped file. Package updates overwrite sddm.conf but leave the .d folder alone. Put every tweak in a drop-in from day one.
Where SDDM stores this, by platform
/etc/sddm.conf + /etc/sddm.conf.d/
Theme, autologin, and session settings. Drop-ins override cleanly. Restart sddm to apply.
Frequently asked questions
How do I change the SDDM theme?
Set the theme name in sddm.conf or a drop-in, then restart the display manager. Test theme edits by switching TTY, typos lock the login screen.
Login screen broke after a theme change. Fix?
Check journalctl -u sddm for config errors. A bad theme name drops to a fallback or a black screen. Keep a TTY shell handy.
How do I enable SDDM autologin?
Set autologin user and session in sddm.conf. Convenient for single-user boxes, risky anywhere shared. Weigh it before enabling.
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