How To Install GNOME Desktop on Rocky Linux 9

Rocky Linux, known for its stability and compatibility with Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL), is an excellent choice for servers and workstations alike. However, the default installation often comes without a graphical interface, which can be daunting for users accustomed to GUI-based systems. GNOME Desktop, a popular and intuitive interface, bridges this gap by providing a modern, customizable, and user-friendly environment.

Installing GNOME on Rocky Linux 9 not only enhances visual appeal but also improves accessibility and productivity. Whether you’re a system administrator, developer, or everyday user, having a graphical interface can streamline many tasks and provide a more comfortable computing experience.

System Requirements

Before proceeding with the installation, ensure your system meets the following requirements:

• A computer with Rocky Linux 9 installed
• Minimum 2 GB RAM (4 GB or more recommended for optimal performance)
• At least 20 GB of free disk space
• A stable internet connection for downloading packages
• Root or sudo privileges on your system

It’s crucial to note that while GNOME can run on systems with lower specifications, the user experience may be compromised. For smooth operation, consider exceeding these minimum requirements.

Pre-Installation Steps

Before installing GNOME, it’s essential to prepare your system:

1. Check Current System Environment

Verify your current Rocky Linux version and system architecture:

cat /etc/rocky-release uname -m

2. Update the System

Ensure your system is up-to-date:

sudo dnf update -y

3. Verify Repository Configuration

Check if the necessary repositories are enabled:

sudo dnf repolist

Ensure that the AppStream and BaseOS repositories are listed and enabled.

Installation Methods

There are two primary methods to install GNOME Desktop on Rocky Linux 9: a full installation and a minimal installation. Let’s explore both options.

Full GNOME Desktop Installation

This method installs the complete GNOME Desktop environment with all standard applications and utilities:

sudo dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI" -y

This command installs the “Server with GUI” package group, which includes GNOME Desktop and essential applications. The process may take some time, depending on your internet speed and system performance.

Minimal GNOME Installation

For users who prefer a lighter installation or have limited system resources, a minimal GNOME setup is possible:

sudo dnf install gnome-shell gnome-terminal nautilus gnome-system-monitor gnome-control-center -y

This command installs only the core GNOME components, providing a basic graphical environment without additional applications.

Configuring the Desktop Environment

After installation, you need to configure your system to use GNOME as the default graphical interface:

1. Set Default Boot Target

Change the system’s default target to graphical mode:

sudo systemctl set-default graphical.target

2. Enable Display Manager

GNOME uses GDM (GNOME Display Manager) as its login screen. Enable and start GDM:

sudo systemctl enable gdm sudo systemctl start gdm

3. Verify System Target

Confirm that the system is set to boot into the graphical target:

systemctl get-default

This should return “graphical.target“.

Post-Installation Setup

Once GNOME is installed and configured, reboot your system:

sudo reboot

After rebooting, you’ll be greeted by the GNOME Display Manager (GDM) login screen. Log in with your user credentials to access the GNOME Desktop environment.

Initial Configuration

Upon first login, GNOME will guide you through initial setup steps:

1. Select your preferred language
2. Configure keyboard layout
3. Set up online accounts (optional)
4. Adjust privacy settings

Take your time to customize these settings according to your preferences.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

While installing GNOME on Rocky Linux 9 is generally straightforward, you might encounter some issues. Here are solutions to common problems:

Display Manager Issues

If GDM fails to start, try switching to a different display manager like LightDM:

sudo dnf install lightdm sudo systemctl disable gdm sudo systemctl enable lightdm sudo systemctl start lightdm

Graphics Driver Problems

For systems with NVIDIA or AMD graphics cards, you may need to install proprietary drivers for optimal performance. Consult the Rocky Linux documentation for specific instructions related to your hardware.

Package Dependency Issues

If you encounter dependency conflicts during installation, try the following:

sudo dnf clean all sudo dnf update sudo dnf groupinstall "Server with GUI" --allowerasing

The –allowerasing option allows DNF to remove conflicting packages, which can resolve some dependency issues.

Performance Optimization

To ensure optimal performance of GNOME on Rocky Linux 9:

• Regularly update your system: sudo dnf update
• Use GNOME Tweaks for fine-tuning: sudo dnf install gnome-tweaks
• Monitor system resources with GNOME System Monitor
• Consider using extensions to customize and potentially improve GNOME’s performance

Remember that while customization can enhance your experience, excessive modifications might impact system stability.

Security Considerations

Implementing a graphical interface introduces new security considerations:

• Regularly update your system to patch security vulnerabilities
• Use strong passwords for user accounts
• Configure the GNOME screensaver for automatic locking
• Be cautious when installing third-party GNOME extensions
• Consider using SELinux for enhanced system security

Balancing usability and security is crucial for maintaining a safe computing environment.

Maintenance and Updates

To keep your GNOME Desktop on Rocky Linux 9 running smoothly:

• Regularly update your system: sudo dnf update
• Clean DNF cache periodically: sudo dnf clean all
• Monitor system logs for any issues: journalctl -f
• Keep an eye on GNOME Shell extensions and update them as needed

Consistent maintenance ensures system stability and security, providing a reliable desktop environment for your daily tasks.

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Gnome. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the Gnome desktop environment on your Rocky Linux 9 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official Gnome website.