i3status

i3status is a lightweight status line program designed for the i3 window manager. It collects various system metrics and renders them as a status bar for i3bar or other compatible bar programs.

It runs as a separate process and outputs a stream of status blocks in JSON format. i3bar reads this stream to display information. The content and layout are controlled by a configuration file named i3status.conf, which defines the modules to include, the formatting, colors, and the update interval.

Modules provide data such as CPU usage, memory and swap, disk space, network activity, battery status, temperature sensors, load averages, and the current date/time. Blocks are arranged in the order specified in the config, and each block can define its own formatting.

Installation and usage: install the i3status package via the operating system’s package manager. Create or edit i3status.conf to select modules and appearance, then run i3status. In i3bar (the status bar for i3), set the bar's status_command to i3status so the bar reads its output.

History and context: i3status was developed to provide a simple, extensible status line for the i3 window manager and is maintained as part of the i3 project. While modern alternatives such as i3blocks and polybar offer different approaches, i3status remains a commonly used, lightweight option for users seeking a minimal status bar.