Guide to Installing Mate Desktop on Ubuntu
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the process of installing the MATE desktop environment on an Ubuntu system that currently uses GNOME as its default desktop environment. For those who are setting up a new Ubuntu system and prefer to start directly with the MATE desktop environment, it’s advisable to download the Ubuntu MATE ISO from https://ubuntu-mate.org/download/ and install your system using this ISO image for an optimized MATE experience. This ensures that MATE is the default desktop environment right from the start, providing a seamless setup process.
However, if you already have Ubuntu installed and wish to switch to the MATE desktop or add it as an alternative desktop environment, this tutorial is for you. The MATE desktop offers a more traditional, lightweight, and highly customizable user interface for those who prefer a classic desktop paradigm. Whether you’re looking to switch from GNOME to MATE for performance reasons, or simply for a change of scenery, this tutorial has got you covered.
In this tutorial you will learn:
- How to update your Ubuntu system
- How to install the MATE desktop environment
- How to choose between LightDM and GDM3 display managers
- How to reboot and log into your new MATE desktop
| Category | Requirements, Conventions or Software Version Used |
|---|---|
| System | Ubuntu with GNOME desktop environment (default installation) |
| Software | sudo, apt package manager |
| Other | Internet connection |
| Conventions | # – requires given linux commands to be executed with root privileges either directly as a root user or by use of sudo command$ – requires given linux commands to be executed as a regular non-privileged user |
Installing MATE Desktop on Ubuntu
Before proceeding with the installation of the MATE desktop environment, it’s important to understand why one might choose MATE over the default GNOME desktop. MATE is renowned for its efficiency, simplicity, and customization options, making it ideal for users with older hardware or those who prefer a straightforward, traditional desktop layout.
- Update Your System: Ensure that your system is up-to-date to avoid any conflicts during the installation process.$ sudo apt update $ sudo apt upgradeThis step updates the list of available packages and their versions, and then installs the newest versions of all packages currently installed on your system. It’s crucial for maintaining software compatibility and system stability.
- Install MATE Desktop: Install the MATE desktop environment by installing the ubuntu-mate-desktop meta-package.$ sudo apt install ubuntu-mate-desktophttps://75ce5b41aafdf29286fbe122b95d0f66.safeframe.googlesyndication.com/safeframe/1-0-40/html/container.html
Select LightDM to ensure a full MATE desktop experienceThis command installs the MATE desktop along with all necessary dependencies. During the installation, you will be prompted to choose between LightDM and GDM3. Select LightDM to ensure a full MATE desktop experience. LightDM is the recommended display manager for MATE, offering a more integrated and seamless experience. - Reboot Your System: Once the installation is complete, reboot your system to apply the changes.$ sudo rebootThis step is necessary to initialize the newly installed desktop environment and finalize the setup process.
- Select MATE as Default Desktop: On the login screen, select MATE as the default desktop environment.
Select MATE as Default Desktop - Login to MATE Desktop: Enter your username and password to log into your new MATE desktop environment on Ubuntu.
MATE Desktop installed
Conclusion
By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you have successfully installed the MATE desktop environment on your Ubuntu system. MATE offers a refreshing, efficient, and customizable alternative to the default GNOME desktop. This guide aimed to provide a smooth transition for users looking to enhance their Ubuntu experience with the MATE desktop, ensuring a comprehensive understanding and efficient execution of the installation process.