How to Install a Graphical User Interface (GUI) on Ubuntu 24.04 Server OS

The Ubuntu Server operating system is normally designed to run without a graphical user interface, allowing it to function smoothly while consuming minimal resources. Nevertheless, some scenarios can require a graphical interface to make server management easier - especially for users with limited experience at the Linux command line. In this tutorial you will learn how to install a graphical user interface (GUI) and an RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) server on Ubuntu 24.04.

Preparation

Before you begin, you need:

• Ubuntu 24.04 OS
• A user with administrative (root) privileges

Updating Packages

Refresh the package lists before installing any applications:

sudo apt update

sudo apt upgrade

Installing Ubuntu GNOME Desktop

Install the GNOME desktop environment, which Ubuntu uses by default:

sudo apt install ubuntu-desktop -y

Installing Xubuntu XFCE Desktop

Alternatively, you can install the lightweight XFCE desktop environment, which is faster and uses fewer resources:

sudo apt install xubuntu-desktop -y

After installing a desktop environment, reboot the OS with:

sudo reboot

Installing the RDP Server

Install and configure XRDP. XRDP lets you control the computer’s desktop remotely via the RDP protocol.

sudo apt install xrdp -y

Configure XRDP to start automatically with the system:

sudo systemctl enable xrdp

Start the XRDP service:

sudo systemctl start xrdp

Add the xrdp user to the ssl-cert group. This grants XRDP access to certificate files needed for encrypted RDP sessions.

sudo adduser xrdp ssl-cert

If you’re using the UFW firewall, open TCP port 3389, which RDP protocol uses:

sudo ufw allow 3389/tcp

sudo ufw reload

Connecting via RDP

Enter your Ubuntu username and password when prompted.

If you use the XFCE desktop, configure XRDP with these settings:

echo "startxfce4" > ~/.xsession
sudo systemctl restart xrdp

After connecting, you will see the desktop:

In summary, to install a GUI on Ubuntu server, you need to install the desired desktop environment and the RDP server. If you have any questions or run into issues, feel free to contact our live support or email [email protected].