How to Install KDE Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04
This article explains how to install KDE Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04.
KDE Desktop, or the KDE Plasma Desktop, is a popular open-source desktop environment for Linux that offers a range of widgets that provide quick access to information, such as weather, calendar events, and system performance statistics.
Why Install KDE Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04?
You might want to change how your computer looks and feels. KDE Plasma is a powerful desktop environment. It offers more ways to change your screen than the default Ubuntu look. It uses widgets for weather and system stats. It also lets you group tasks into ‘activities’.
What Happens When You Install KDE?
Your computer will gain a new way to interact with files and apps. You will get a new menu, a new taskbar, and new settings. You can switch between your old GNOME desktop and the new KDE Plasma desktop whenever you log in.
Kubuntu vs. KDE on Ubuntu
Kubuntu is an official version of Ubuntu that comes with KDE pre-installed. Installing KDE on standard Ubuntu is different. It adds the KDE software on top of your existing system. This gives you the best of both worlds but can sometimes lead to extra software clutter.
Installation Guide
Warning: Installing multiple desktop environments can sometimes cause conflicts with settings or icons. Always back up your files first.
To install, open your terminal and run these commands. Requires Admin Privileges:
sudo apt update sudo apt install kde-plasma-desktop
You can choose between kde-full (includes all apps) or kde-standard (includes only the basics). Use kde-standard if you want to save disk space.
Switching Desktop Environments
After the installation, restart your computer. At the login screen, look for a small gear icon or a session menu. Click it and select ‘Plasma’ to start your new desktop. You can switch back to ‘Ubuntu’ (GNOME) at any time using this same menu.
Post-Installation Customization
Once you log in, open ‘System Settings’. Here you can change themes, icons, and fonts. You can also add widgets to your desktop by right-clicking on an empty space and selecting ‘Add Widgets’. Try using KRunner by pressing Alt+F2 to launch apps quickly.
Recommended KDE Applications
To get the most out of your new setup, try these native apps:
- Dolphin: A powerful file manager.
- Konsole: A feature-rich terminal emulator.
- Kate: A great text editor for coding and notes.
- Spectacle: An easy tool for taking screenshots.
Summary
Installing KDE Desktop on Ubuntu 24.04 gives you a highly customizable and modern workspace. By following these steps, you can easily switch between environments, manage your tasks with activities, and use powerful tools like Dolphin. Remember to use the login screen to toggle between your desktop choices and enjoy your new Linux experience.
Is KDE Plasma stable on Ubuntu 24.04?
Yes, KDE Plasma is very stable on Ubuntu 24.04 LTS. Because Ubuntu 24.04 is a Long Term Support release, it provides a solid foundation for the Plasma desktop. You will enjoy a reliable experience with regular security updates and bug fixes for your desktop environment.
How do I remove KDE Plasma if I want to revert to GNOME?
To remove it, run ‘sudo apt purge kde-plasma-desktop’ followed by ‘sudo apt autoremove’ in your terminal. This will delete the KDE packages. Be careful to check what is being removed so you do not accidentally delete important system files needed for your GNOME desktop.
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