GConf is a process-transparent configuration database with a model-view-controller architecture. GConf is a system for storing configuration information, that is, key-value pairs. GConf provides a notification service so applications can be notified when a key's value is changed. GConf also allows for pluggable storage mechanisms (text files, databases, etc.); allows administrators to install default values; and allows application authors to document their configuration keys for the benefit of administrators.