I have tested the final beta of 17.10 on real hardware and don't like Ubuntu's modifications to Gnome 3.26. I still like a lot about Ubuntu, and believe the vanilla Gnome experience on 17.10 would be great for me. I find differing ideas online about how to achieve this. For example: 1) sudo apt install --reinstall gnome-session, or 2) sudo apt install vanilla-gnome-desktop, among others. No such posts address how permanent or safe such tweaks would be in reference to remaining packages or after future updates. I am left wondering whether it will be possible to opt for the plain gnome experience in 17.10 or not. Any definitive and clear input would be appreciated.

Thanks, in advance.

if it's done with apt and without having to modify sources first, then it's safe.

Thanks, ondoho. I believe you that it would be safe. What do you think would happen after Ubuntu provides updates -- might it not revert back to their version with the always-visible applications panel? Also, of the two apt suggestions I cited, which do you recommend?

not if it's done the way i specified.

which frontend for apt you use is insignificant.

Very well. Thanks for the responses. I will mark this as resolved and give it a try on Thursday when the final version is released.