How to Start CentOS GUI From the Command Line

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CentOS is a robust Linux distribution used primarily in Web server environments. CentOS provides a stable server platform and is available as a free, open-source operating system for use by hosting providers and end users alike. While CentOS is a powerful Web server OS with many Internet related features, it lacks a graphical user interface with basic installations. Consequently, if you want enable a GUI from the CentOS command line, you'll need to first download and install a compatible graphical desktop environment, such as Gnome or KDE.

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Step 1

Log in to the CentOS operating system.

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Step 2

Type the command "su -" to switch to a root session.

Step 3

Type the command:

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yum groupinstall "X Windows System" "GNOME Desktop Environment" or yum groupinstall "X Windows System" "KDE Desktop Environment"

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to install your preferred desktop environment.

Step 4

Type the command "startx" to start the X windows system and your preferred desktop environment.

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