I give up. I have a file called Xmodmap in my home directory. Executing "xmodmap ~./Xmodmap" from a shell gives me the desired results. The contents of Xmodmap are: keycode 115 = Multi_key keycode 117 = Multi_key That's all. However, if I put the lines export DISPLAY=beeblebox:0 # my machine name is beeblebox xmodmap ~./Xmodmap inside .xinitrc I cannot login properly into the system. In other words, I end up with a background screen but nothing else, no windows, no toolbar, nothing. I have to login in safe mode and remove the offending lines or remove .xinitrc. Where can I insert the command "xmodmap <myfile>" without breaking the login sequence? I've tried the /etc area (bashrc.local or something like that) but the results were far worse. Anyone have a clue? TIA & Cheers