How to Install the Desktop Components (GUI) on an Ubuntu Server

If you find yourself wanting a desktop environment after you have installed Ubuntu server you can easily add it. Pick your favorite desktop environment from the list below and run the associated command. Remember that installation software requires root privileges so use “sudo” or switch to the root user before you begin the installation.

Unity (The Default Desktop)

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktop

NOTE: If you’re using Ubuntu 16.04 or higher, you can use the “apt” command instead of “apt-get”:

sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop

KDE

If you’re using Ubuntu 16.04 or higher, you’ll need to add the PPA for KDE first:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:kubuntu-ppa/backports

sudo apt-get install kubuntu-desktop

LXDE (Lubuntu)

sudo apt-get install lubuntu-desktop

MATE

sudo apt-get install mate-desktop

Gnome

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-gnome-desktop

XFCE (Xubuntu)

sudo apt-get install xubuntu-desktop