Everything You Need to Know to Install GUI Ubuntu Server 20.04

Why Install GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04?

If you’re using Ubuntu Server, you probably opted for its command-line interface to avoid using resources on your server. However, if you want to have a graphical user interface (GUI) for your server, there is a way to install it without a reinstallation.

In this article, we’ll show you how to install a GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04, as well as its advantages and disadvantages.

What is Ubuntu Server 20.04?

Ubuntu Server is a version of the Ubuntu operating system designed for server use. It comes with the same core features as Ubuntu Desktop but does not have a graphical user interface installed by default.

Ubuntu Server 20.04 is the latest Long Term Support (LTS) release of Ubuntu Server. LTS versions of Ubuntu Server are released every two years and receive regular security and maintenance updates for up to five years.

How to Install GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04

Step 1: Update your system

The first thing you need to do is update your system’s packages and repositories. Open a terminal window and run the following command:

Command	Description
sudo apt update	Updates the list of available packages
sudo apt upgrade	Upgrades all installed packages
sudo reboot	Reboots your system

Step 2: Install the GUI desktop environment

Once your system is up to date, you can install the desktop environment of your choice. There are several desktop environments available for Ubuntu, including:

1. GNOME
2. KDE Plasma
3. Cinnamon
4. MATE
5. Xfce

In this example, we’ll use the GNOME desktop environment. Run the following command:

sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop gnome-session gdm3

This command installs the Ubuntu desktop, the GNOME desktop environment, and the GNOME Display Manager (GDM).

Step 3: Configure the Display Manager

To set GDM as your default display manager, run the following command:

sudo systemctl disable lightdm

This command disables LightDM, the default display manager for Ubuntu Server. Then, run:

sudo systemctl enable gdm

This command enables GDM as your default display manager.

Step 4: Reboot and Log in to the Desktop Environment

Finally, reboot your system:

sudo reboot

When your system reboots, you should see the GDM login screen. Log in with your username and password, and you’ll be taken to the GNOME desktop environment.

Advantages of Installing GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04

1. Improved Productivity and User Experience

A GUI makes it easier to interact with your server, especially if you’re not familiar with the command line. With a GUI, you can manage your system resources, run applications, and perform other tasks with a few clicks.

2. Easier System Management

A GUI provides you with more intuitive tools to manage your system, including disk and network management tools, system monitoring, and performance analysis.

3. Better Remote Access

With a GUI, you can easily access your server remotely through VNC or RDP, making server management more convenient.

Disadvantages of Installing GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04

1. Increased Resource Usage

A GUI requires more resources than a command line interface. Installing a GUI on a server can increase the load on your system, especially if you’re using a lightweight server.

2. Security Risks

A GUI can be a security risk, especially if you need to expose your server to the internet. A GUI could provide attackers with an easy way to access your system if it’s not properly secured.

3. Increased Complexity

A GUI adds another layer of complexity to your server, making it harder to manage if you’re not familiar with the desktop environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I install a different desktop environment?

Yes, you can install a different desktop environment instead of GNOME. Simply replace “gnome-session” with the desktop environment of your choice when installing the desktop environment.

2. How do I remove the GUI after installation?

To remove the GUI, run the following command:

sudo apt purge ubuntu-desktop gnome-session gdm3

3. How do I access the GUI remotely?

You can access the GUI remotely using VNC or RDP. You’ll need to install a VNC or RDP server on your Ubuntu Server and configure your firewall to allow access to the appropriate ports.

4. Will installing a GUI affect system performance?

Yes, installing a GUI will increase system resource usage and may affect performance, especially on a lightweight server. Consider the system requirements of your chosen desktop environment before installation.

5. Can I use a GUI with Ubuntu Server for hosting a website?

Yes, you can use a GUI with Ubuntu Server to host a website. However, a command-line interface is generally considered more secure, as it reduces the attack surface of your server.

6. Can I install a GUI on an existing Ubuntu Server installation?

Yes, you can install a GUI on an existing Ubuntu Server installation by following the steps outlined in this article.

7. Can I install a GUI on Ubuntu Server without an internet connection?

Yes, you can install a GUI on Ubuntu Server without an internet connection by downloading the necessary packages on a separate machine and transferring them to your server using a USB drive or other removable media.

Conclusion

Installing a GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04 can make server management easier and more intuitive. However, it’s important to consider the potential disadvantages, such as increased resource usage and security risks.

If you decide to install a GUI, follow the steps outlined in this article, and consider your system requirements before selecting a desktop environment.

Thank you for reading, and we hope this article helps you install a GUI in Ubuntu Server 20.04 successfully!

Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only. We make no guarantees of any kind regarding the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of any information provided. Any actions you take based on the information in this article are strictly at your own risk, and we will not be liable for any losses or damages in connection with the use of this information.

Video:Everything You Need to Know to Install GUI Ubuntu Server 20.04