Typically Linux servers don’t provide Graphical User Interface (GUI) as it adds up in RAM & CPU usage. Administrators prefer the command line over GUI to manage the Servers. This article explains how to start GUI on CentOS 8. The same procedure holds good to start GUI on AlmaLinux 8 and Rocky Linux 8 also. Are you looking for how to install desktop and start GUI on Ubuntu machines? Click here
How to start GUI on CentOS 8
Step 1: Update the server
Update the server to ensure that all packages installed on the system are up to date.
# dnf update
Step 2: List all available package groups
List all the available package groups in the repositories of the distribution.
[root@almalinux ~]# dnf grouplist Last metadata expiration check: 0:05:02 ago on Mon 07 Mar 2022 12:04:16 PM UTC. Available Environment Groups: Server with GUI Server Minimal Install Workstation Custom Operating System Virtualization Host Available Groups: Legacy UNIX Compatibility Container Management Development Tools .NET Core Development Graphical Administration Tools Headless Management Network Servers RPM Development Tools Scientific Support Security Tools Smart Card Support System Tools
Step 3: Install Server with GUI group package
Identify the Server with GUI entry in the Available Environment Group. Install this group.
# dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI"
Step 4: Verify default boot
The default boot is for non-graphical multi-user
# systemctl get-default multi-user.target
Step 5: Change default boot to graphical mode
The next system boot goes to GUI
# systemctl set-default graphical.target Removed /etc/systemd/system/default.target. Created symlink /etc/systemd/system/default.target → /usr/lib/systemd/system/graphical.target.
Step 6: Reboot the server
# reboot
Once the server is rebooted completely, you’ll find the GNOME login Interface. Log in with your username and password to see the GNOME Desktop Environment.
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