How to Install a Desktop on an Ubuntu Server
By Kristen Waters
The Ubuntu Linux operating system is available either with or without a desktop environment. The version with the desktop environment is meant for personal use and includes word processing, email and graphic editing software. The version without the desktop environment is called "Ubuntu Server." The server version does not come with any graphical software or productivity software. There are three different desktop environments available for the Ubuntu operating system. The default is the Gnome desktop. The other two are the KDE and the XFCE desktop environments.
Step 1
Log into the server.
Step 2
Type the command "sudo apt-get update" to update the list of software packages available.
Step 3
Type the command "sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktop" to install the Gnome desktop.
Step 4
Type the command "sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop" to install the XFCE desktop.
Step 5
Type the command "sudo apt-get install kubuntu-desktop" to install the KDE desktop.
Step 6
Type the command "sudo reboot" to reboot the server.
Tips
- Type the command "sudo aptitude install --no-install-recommends ubuntu-desktop" to install the Gnome desktop without any additional software such as OpenOffice and Evolution.
Writer Bio
Kristen Waters has been writing for the computer industry since 2004. She has written training materials for both large and small computer companies as well as how-to and informative articles for many online publications. She holds Bachelor of Science degrees from both York College of Pennsylvania and the University of Maryland.