How to Install Gnome on Centos 8

In the world of Linux operating systems, CentOS 8 stands as a powerful and reliable choice for server, desktop and hosting environments. However, for many users, a visually appealing and user-friendly desktop environment is a key aspect of their computing experience. This is where GNOME, a popular desktop environment, comes into play. Our step-by-step guide helps you install GNOME on CentOS 8. Whether you’re new or experienced with Linux servers, a comfortable and intuitive desktop makes a big difference in productivity and enjoyment.

What is Gnome?

GNOME is a popular open-source desktop environment and graphical user interface (GUI) for Linux and Unix-like systems. It offers a user-friendly and visually pleasing experience with various features:

• Modern Design: GNOME has a clean and elegant design for easy use.
• Activities Overview: A central hub showing open apps, workspaces, and an app launcher.
• Application Launcher: Quickly access apps by searching or browsing categories.
• Top Bar: Displays time, settings, and notifications; controls system settings.
• Customizability: Customize themes, icons, and extensions while maintaining its design.
• Virtual Workspaces: Organize tasks in separate workspaces for different activities.
• Integrated Applications: Includes a file manager, web browser, text editor, and more.
• Accessibility: Prioritizes accessibility with features like screen reader compatibility and keyboard navigation.
• Extensions: Add extra functions to your desktop, from productivity to visual enhancements.
• Community-Driven: Developed by volunteers and professionals, ensuring ongoing development.

GNOME is the default for distributions like Ubuntu server, Fedora, and Debian. Its user-centered design and rich interface suit newcomers and experienced users seeking a polished desktop environment.

Prerequisites

Before we start installing the GNOME desktop environment on CentOS 8, it’s important to have the right foundation. Here are the prerequisites you need:

CentOS 8 Installed:

• Make sure CentOS 8 is already on your system. If not:
• Get the CentOS 8 ISO from the official site.
• Create a bootable USB or DVD using the ISO.
• Follow on-screen instructions for installation, choosing the right options.

Admin Rights:

• You need these to install software and make system changes. To check if you have them:
• Log into CentOS 8 with your user account.
• Open a terminal.
• Run this command to gain admin rights:

sudo su -

• Enter your password when asked. You’ll have superuser rights for the session.

Step-by-Step Installation Guide

With the prerequisites in place, you’re ready to install the GNOME desktop environment on CentOS 8. This guide will lead you through the installation step by step, with visuals for clarity and ease. Let’s begin the process.

Step 1: Update System

Before making any changes to your system, it’s crucial to ensure that your operating system is up-to-date. This helps in preventing potential conflicts and ensures that you have the latest software packages.

Open a Terminal: Launch the terminal on your CentOS 8 system. You can do this by searching for “Terminal” in the application launcher.

Update Package Lists

Run the following command to update the package lists from the repositories:

sudo dnf update

This command will fetch the latest information about available software packages.

Upgrade Installed Packages

After updating the package lists, run the following command to upgrade any installed packages to their latest versions:

sudo dnf upgrade

This step ensures that your system is running the most current versions of software.

Step 2: Install GNOME Desktop Packages

With your system updated, you’re now ready to install the GNOME desktop environment packages.

Install GNOME

In the terminal, enter the following command to start the installation of GNOME packages:

sudo dnf groupinstall "GNOME Desktop" "Graphical Administration Tools"

This command installs the core GNOME components and graphical administration tools.

Enable GNOME on Boot

After the installation is complete, enable GNOME to start automatically on boot with the following command:

sudo systemctl set-default graphical.target

This command sets the default target to the graphical environment, ensuring that GNOME loads on startup.

With these steps completed, you’ve successfully installed the GNOME desktop environment on your CentOS 8 system. The next step involves configuring the display manager to launch GNOME. Continue reading to seamlessly transition into the GNOME environment.

Step 3: Configure Display Manager

The display manager is responsible for handling user logins and graphical sessions. In this step, you’ll configure it to use the GNOME Display Manager (GDM) for a smooth transition to the GNOME environment.

Switch to GDM

Execute the following command to switch from the default display manager to GDM:

sudo systemctl disable gdm

sudo systemctl enable gdm

sudo systemctl start gdm

These commands disable the current display manager, enable GDM, and start it.

Reboot Your System

To apply the changes, reboot your system using the following command:

sudo reboot

Upon reboot, you’ll be welcomed by the GNOME Display Manager.

With your display manager configured, you’re just a step away from experiencing the GNOME desktop environment on your CentOS 8 system. The upcoming step will guide you through starting GNOME and familiarizing yourself with its interface.

Step 4: Start GNOME

After rebooting, you’ll encounter the GNOME Display Manager, where you can log in using your user credentials. Select your username, enter your password, and choose “GNOME” from the session options. Hit “Login” to enter the GNOME desktop environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, by installing the GNOME desktop environment on CentOS 8, you’ve enhanced your Linux vps hosting experience. This guide has equipped you with a clear understanding of each installation step, supported by visuals for newcomers to Linux. Following prerequisites, updating, and installation steps, you’ve embraced GNOME’s modern interface, easy navigation, and features. Your CentOS 8 system is now not only reliable but visually appealing and efficient, enriching your computing journey. As you explore GNOME’s customizable features, remember you control your desktop’s look. With GNOME, CentOS 8 gains usability and style, enabling you to achieve more with your Linux system. You can also read about