How to Install a Desktop (GUI) on an Ubuntu Server

Ubuntu Server is a powerful and flexible operating system that is widely used for server environments. By default, it does not come with a graphical user interface (GUI) to conserve system resources. However, there are situations where having a GUI can be beneficial, especially for users who are more comfortable with graphical tools.

This article will guide you through the process of installing a desktop environment on your Ubuntu Server and how to access the GUI on your system efficiently.

Desktop Environments

Before the Ubuntu desktop download, it is essential to select a suitable desktop environment. Here are a few popular options:

1. GNOME: A widely-used modern desktop with a clean and effective interface.
2. KDE Plasma: Another popular choice known for its extensive customization options and features.
3. XFCE: A lightweight desktop environment ideal for older hardware or systems with limited resources.
4. MATE: A fork of GNOME 3, designed to provide a more traditional desktop experience.

Installing GUI on Ubuntu Server

To prepare your Ubuntu server you need access to the Ubuntu terminal. If you are a Windows user you can easily access it with PuTTY installed on Windows system. Log in with SSH access such as IP address, username, and password.

Step 1: Update Your Server

First, update your package lists to ensure all your software is up to date. Open a terminal and run the following commands:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This will refresh the repository and package lists and perform the necessary upgrades.

Step 2: Install Display Manager

A display manager is an application that starts the display server launches the desktop and manages user authentication. The default display manager for Ubuntu is GDM3 but it is resource intensive. For a lighter alternative, you can use SLiM or LightDM.

To install LightDM, run the following command:

sudo apt install lightdm

During the installation, you may be prompted to choose a default display manager. Select LightDM and press Enter.

Step 3: Install Desktop Environment

Now, you need to choose and install a desktop environment. Ubuntu offers several desktop environments including GNOME, KDE Plasma, XFCE, and LXDE. Here are the commands to install some of the most popular ones:

GNOME Desktop

GNOME is the default desktop for the Ubuntu desktop environments. To install it, run:

sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop

KDE Plasma

KDE Plasma is known for its flexibility and visual appeal. To install Ubuntu desktop, run:

sudo apt install kde-plasma-desktop

XFCE

XFCE is a lightweight desktop environment that is fast and consumes fewer system resources. To install it, run:

sudo apt install xubuntu-core

After installing the desktop environment you need to log in again to your system to apply the changes.

Configure Remote Access

If you need to access your server remotely you can install and configure a VNC server. Here’s how to do it:

Install VNC Server

Install the Tight VNC server with the following command:

sudo apt install tightvncserver

Setting Up VNC Server

Start the VNC server and set a password. This password will prompt when you access the User interface on the client software.

vncserver

Editing VNC File

Configure the VNC server to start with your chosen desktop environment. Edit the ~/.vnc/xstartup file and add the following lines:

#!/bin/sh
xrdb $HOME/.Xresources
startxfce4 &

Replace startxfce4 with the command to start your chosen desktop environment.

Start VNC Server

Make the xstartup file executable with the following command:

chmod +x ~/.vnc/xstartup

Restart the VNC server with the following command:

vncserver -kill :1 && vncserver :1

You can now connect to your server using a VNC client. You need to install RealVNC viewer to access the Desktop. Visit the official RealVNC website and select according to your operating system.

Download the installer file and install it with the help of the given instructions according to your operating system. After installing it, open the RealVNC viewer client application interface.

Enter the IP address and the VNC port number which is 5901 in the search bar. For example:

192.168.1.12:5901

The password screen prompted. Enter the password that you configure while setting up vncserver.

Finally, it will connect to your server along the desktop interface. Here is what the XFCE environment looks like:

Important Notes

Following are some important notes while installing the desktop on the Ubuntu server:

• Ensure your hardware is compatible with the chosen desktop environment. Some features might require specific drivers or configurations.
• Consider your server’s resources. If you are running resource intensive applications a lightweight desktop environment might be more suitable.
• Explore the customization options offered by your selected desktop environment according to your preferences.
• Implement appropriate security measures to protect your server and desktop environment.

Conclusion

Installing a desktop environment on an Ubuntu Server can make it easier to manage and use, especially for those who prefer graphical tools. This guide has shown you how to install and configure a GUI on your Ubuntu Server including updating your server installing a display manager choosing and installing a desktop environment and configuring remote access. With these steps, you can easily set up a graphical interface on your server.

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