How to install a graphical desktop on CentOS

If you have performed a CentOS minimal installation and are wondering how to add a graphical user interface (GUI), follow the steps below.

Step 1: List Available Package Groups

First, verify which environment groups are available for installation by running:

dnf group list

This command will display a comprehensive list of package groups available for your system.

Step 2: Install the Graphical Desktop Group

To install the official “Server with GUI” environment, execute the following command:

dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI"

Note: This process may take several minutes as the system downloads and installs the necessary desktop components.

Step 3: Set the Default Boot Target

By default, CentOS will still boot into the command line. To ensure the system boots into the graphical interface automatically, run:

systemctl set-default graphical.target

If you prefer to keep the command line as your default and start the desktop manually, you can skip this step.

Step 4: Reboot Your System

Finally, restart your server to apply the changes:

reboot

Once the system reloads, you will be greeted by the graphical login screen.