Best Linux Server Distros With GUI: Must Check

Some of us enjoy the precision of the terminal, while others feel more at home with a GUI interface. It’s about choosing what works best for you and your workflow.

Below, I’m sharing the top 8 Linux server distros that come with a GUI. For those who prefer a visual approach to server management, these picks are especially relevant. Each distro has its own set of features and benefits, offering something unique.

The importance of a GUI in Linux servers can’t be overstated. It streamlines complex tasks, making server management more accessible to a broader audience.

A thoughtfully designed GUI not only accelerates your workflow but also helps minimize errors. It plays a crucial role in enhancing a server’s usability.

Whether you’re overseeing one server or many, these Linux server distros with a GUI are tailored to combine efficiency with ease of use, meeting diverse server management needs. Let’s look at what sets each apart.

Why Choose the Best Linux Server Distros With GUI?

When it comes to choosing a Linux server distro with a GUI, here’s what really matters:

• Stability: You want something that won’t let you down over time, always keeping your server stable.
• Performance: It’s about handling whatever you throw at it, efficiently and effectively.
• User-friendliness: If it’s easy to use, you’ll get things done faster and with less hassle.
• Customizability: Everyone has their own way of doing things, so being able to personalize your server is key.

Keeping these factors in mind helps us zero in on the best choices for managing servers with a GUI, blending reliability, ease of use, and the flexibility to make it your own.

Comparison Table Of Server Distros With GUI

To help you choose the right distro for your needs, here’s a comparison of the key features and characteristics of each:

This table provides a snapshot of how each distro performs in key areas, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs.

1. Ubuntu Server with GNOME

Ubuntu Server, combined with the GNOME desktop environment, provides a perfect blend of stability and user-friendliness.

It offers an intuitive interface and a robust support network, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced professionals. Its extensive documentation and active community further enhance its appeal.

GNOME’s simplicity and elegance complement Ubuntu’s reliable server capabilities, creating a harmonious blend of form and function.

This combination is well-suited for a wide range of server applications, from web hosting to database management.

Pros:

1. Stability and User-Friendliness: Ubuntu Server with GNOME offers a stable and intuitive environment, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users.
2. Strong Support Network: With extensive documentation and an active community, users can easily find help and resources.
3. Versatility: This combination is ideal for a variety of server applications, including web hosting and database management.
4. Ease of Use: GNOME’s simplicity and elegance make server management more straightforward.
5. Reliability: Ubuntu’s reliable server capabilities ensure smooth operation and minimal downtime.

Cons:

1. Resource Intensive: GNOME can be more resource-intensive than other lightweight desktop environments, potentially affecting server performance.
2. Frequent Updates: Ubuntu’s regular update cycle might require more frequent maintenance and upgrades.
3. Compatibility Issues: Some server-specific applications might not be fully compatible with the GNOME desktop environment.
4. Learning Curve: For users new to Linux, there may be a learning curve to fully utilize all the features and capabilities.
5. Potential Overhead: The added features of GNOME might introduce unnecessary overhead for servers that do not require a graphical interface.

2. Fedora Server with KDE Plasma

Fedora Server, paired with the KDE Plasma desktop, stands out for its cutting-edge technology and strong community backing. It features a sleek design and powerful tools, catering to users who seek the latest advancements without compromising on performance.

The distro is known for its regular updates and contributions to the Linux ecosystem.

KDE Plasma’s modern and customizable interface adds a layer of flexibility to Fedora Server, allowing users to tailor their server environment to their specific needs. This makes it an attractive option for those who value both innovation and personalization.

Pros:

1. Cutting-Edge Technology: Fedora Server with KDE Plasma provides access to the latest Linux features and developments.
2. Sleek Design: KDE Plasma offers a modern and customizable interface, enhancing the user experience.
3. Strong Community Support: Fedora has a vibrant community that contributes to its development and provides support.
4. Performance: Fedora Server is known for its performance, making it suitable for handling demanding server tasks.
5. Security: Fedora has a strong focus on security, with regular updates and patches to address vulnerabilities.

Cons:

1. Frequent Updates: Fedora’s rapid release cycle may require more frequent updates, which can be time-consuming for server administrators.
2. Resource Intensive: KDE Plasma can be more resource-intensive compared to lighter desktop environments.
3. Steeper Learning Curve: Fedora’s focus on cutting-edge technology might present a steeper learning curve for new users.
4. Less Stability: Due to its fast-paced development, Fedora may not be as stable as other more conservative distros.
5. Compatibility Issues: Some software may not be immediately available or fully compatible with the latest Fedora releases.

3. OpenSUSE Leap with XFCE

OpenSUSE Leap, coupled with the XFCE desktop, strikes an ideal balance between lightweight performance and functionality.

This combination is suitable for servers where resources are limited but a good user experience is still a priority. XFCE’s minimalistic approach ensures a fast and responsive environment.

The pairing of OpenSUSE Leap with XFCE is particularly well-suited for older hardware or scenarios where conserving system resources is essential. It provides a stable and efficient server platform without sacrificing usability.

Pros:

1. Lightweight Performance: XFCE provides a lightweight and fast desktop environment, which is ideal for conserving server resources.
2. Stability: OpenSUSE Leap is known for its stability, making it a reliable choice for long-term server deployments.
3. User-Friendly: Despite its lightweight nature, XFCE offers a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate.
4. Customizability: Both OpenSUSE and XFCE are highly customizable, allowing users to tailor the server environment to their specific needs.
5. Good Documentation: OpenSUSE provides comprehensive documentation, aiding users in setup, configuration, and troubleshooting.

Cons:

1. Less Aesthetic Appeal: Compared to other desktop environments, XFCE might lack visual appeal and modern design elements.
2. Fewer Features: Being lightweight, XFCE might not offer as many features or tools as more resource-intensive desktop environments.
3. Limited Support for New Technologies: OpenSUSE Leap might lag in supporting the latest hardware and technologies compared to its rolling release counterpart, Tumbleweed.
4. Slower Community Response: The OpenSUSE community is smaller than those of Ubuntu or Fedora, which might result in slower responses to queries.
5. Potential Compatibility Issues: Some applications might not be optimized for XFCE, leading to compatibility challenges.

4. CentOS with Cinnamon

CentOS, equipped with the Cinnamon desktop environment, offers a familiar, Windows-like interface combined with the stability and reliability of a Linux server. This makes it an excellent option for users transitioning from a Windows server environment, providing a comfortable and seamless switch.

Cinnamon’s intuitive design and ease of use complement CentOS’s robust server capabilities, making it a popular choice for businesses and organizations looking for a reliable and user-friendly server solution.

5. Debian with LXDE

Debian, renowned for its solid stability, becomes even more user-friendly when paired with the LXDE desktop. This combination is ideal for those requiring a reliable server that is also light on system resources. LXDE’s simplicity and efficiency make it a great choice for older hardware.

The Debian and LXDE pairing is a testament to the versatility of Linux server distros, offering a solution that is both dependable and accessible. It’s an excellent choice for users who prioritize stability and resource efficiency.

Pros:

1. Rock-Solid Stability: Debian is renowned for its stability, making it a dependable choice for critical server environments.
2. Resource Efficiency: LXDE is extremely lightweight, ensuring minimal resource usage and optimal performance for the server.
3. Wide Software Compatibility: Debian’s vast software repositories provide a wide range of compatible applications and tools.
4. Long-Term Support: Debian offers long-term support releases, ensuring security updates and maintenance for extended periods.
5. Flexibility: The combination of Debian and LXDE offers flexibility for various server roles, from web servers to file servers.

Cons:

1. Aging Interface: LXDE’s traditional interface might feel outdated compared to modern desktop environments.
2. Limited Functionality: Being lightweight, LXDE might lack some features or integrations found in more comprehensive desktop environments.
3. Slower Release Cycle: Debian’s conservative release cycle ensures stability but might delay the availability of the latest software versions.
4. Steep Learning Curve: Debian’s focus on manual configuration and customization might pose challenges for beginners.
5. Less Community Support: While Debian has a strong community, LXDE’s smaller user base might result in less available support and resources.

6. Red Hat Enterprise Linux with MATE

Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) with the MATE desktop offers an enterprise-grade solution without compromising on ease of use. While it comes with a subscription cost, its robust support, reliability, and comprehensive features make it a worthwhile investment for businesses.

MATE’s traditional desktop environment provides a straightforward and familiar user experience, which, when combined with RHEL’s enterprise capabilities, creates a powerful and efficient server platform for corporate environments.

Pros:

1. Enterprise-Grade Stability: RHEL is known for its enterprise-grade stability and reliability, making it a top choice for business-critical servers.
2. Comprehensive Support: Red Hat offers extensive commercial support, including security updates, patches, and professional assistance.
3. Compatibility: RHEL is widely compatible with a variety of enterprise software and hardware, ensuring smooth integration.
4. MATE Desktop Environment: MATE provides a user-friendly and lightweight interface, which is ideal for server administrators who prefer a GUI.
5. Security: RHEL has a strong focus on security, with regular updates and a robust security framework.

Cons:

1. Subscription Cost: RHEL requires a subscription, which might be a barrier for some users or small organizations.
2. Resource Requirements: While MATE is lightweight, it still requires more resources than a server running without a GUI.
3. Less Cutting-Edge: RHEL prioritizes stability over the latest features, so it might not always have the most recent software versions.
4. Complexity: RHEL’s enterprise features can introduce complexity, requiring more expertise to manage effectively.
5. Limited Customization: Compared to community-driven distros, RHEL might offer less flexibility for customization due to its enterprise focus.

7. SUSE Linux Enterprise Server with Enlightenment

SUSE Linux Enterprise Server with the Enlightenment desktop provides a unique blend of performance and visual appeal. It is well-suited for businesses that require a powerful, flexible, and aesthetically pleasing server solution. Enlightenment’s emphasis on efficiency and customization adds to its allure.

This combination is ideal for companies looking to stand out with a visually striking server interface while benefiting from SUSE’s reliable and scalable server technology.

Pros:

1. Enterprise-Level Reliability: SUSE Linux Enterprise Server (SLES) is known for its reliability and stability, making it suitable for mission-critical applications.
2. Innovative Interface: Enlightenment offers a visually appealing and lightweight desktop environment, enhancing the user experience without sacrificing performance.
3. Comprehensive Support: SLES provides extensive commercial support, including updates, patches, and dedicated assistance, ensuring smooth operation.
4. Strong Security: SLES has a robust security framework, offering features like AppArmor for application security and regular security updates.
5. Scalability: SLES is designed to scale from small deployments to large enterprise environments, making it versatile for various use cases.

Cons:

1. Subscription Costs: Like RHEL, SLES requires a subscription, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious users or small businesses.
2. Learning Curve: Enlightenment’s unique interface and SLES’s enterprise features might require a learning curve for new users or those transitioning from other distros.
3. Resource Usage: While Enlightenment is lightweight, running a GUI on a server can still consume more resources than a headless setup.
4. Less Mainstream: Enlightenment is less commonly used than other desktop environments, which might result in fewer resources and community support.
5. Enterprise Focus: SLES’s focus on enterprise might mean that it’s less suited for personal or hobbyist use compared to more general-purpose distros.

8. Arch Linux with Budgie

Arch Linux, known for its simplicity and customization, becomes more accessible with the Budgie desktop. This combination is perfect for users who enjoy tailoring their server experience to the smallest detail, offering a clean and modern interface.

Budgie’s sleek design and user-friendliness complement Arch Linux’s philosophy of simplicity and customization, making it an attractive choice for those who value a personalized server environment.

Pros:

1. Simplicity and Customization: Arch Linux is known for its simplicity and flexibility, allowing users to build a system tailored to their needs.
2. Modern and Elegant: Budgie provides a modern and elegant desktop environment, offering a user-friendly experience without sacrificing performance.
3. Rolling Release: Arch Linux’s rolling release model ensures that users always have access to the latest software updates and features.
4. Extensive Documentation: Arch Linux has comprehensive documentation, making it easier for users to install, configure, and maintain their systems.
5. Active Community: Arch has a vibrant community that contributes to its development and provides support through forums and the Arch User Repository (AUR).

Cons:

1. Complexity: Arch Linux’s focus on simplicity and customization can make it more complex to set up and maintain, especially for beginners.
2. Stability: The rolling release model might lead to occasional stability issues as new updates are continuously integrated.
3. Resource Usage: While Budgie is designed to be lightweight, it may still require more resources than minimalistic desktop environments or a server without a GUI.
4. Compatibility: Some software packages might not be immediately available in the official repositories, requiring users to rely on the AUR or manual installation.
5. Frequent Updates: The rolling release model requires users to stay on top of updates, which can be time-consuming and may occasionally require troubleshooting.

Security in Best Linux Server Distros With GUI

Security is a critical aspect of using GUIs in Linux servers. While GUIs provide ease of use, they can also open up security gaps. It’s vital to keep these interfaces updated to prevent vulnerabilities. Regular checks and updates are key to a secure server environment.

Choosing a GUI for your Linux server means putting security first. Make sure the GUI and all its components receive frequent updates to minimize risks and maintain a robust defense.

Community and Support Impact

The success of a Linux server distro is often tied to its community and support network. A strong community offers better assistance, more regular updates, and a range of resources, all of which boost reliability and user satisfaction.

When picking a distro, look at the community involvement and support availability. An active community is an invaluable asset for solving problems, learning, and keeping up with new developments.

Analyzing Costs

Many Linux server distros are available for free, but some, like RHEL, have subscription fees. It’s important to weigh the features and support against the costs to make a well-informed choice. Think about the total cost of ownership, which includes any licensing fees, support expenses, and other related costs.

Finding the right balance between cost and benefits is crucial for selecting a distro that fits your budget and meets your needs.

Wrapping Up

Picking the right Linux server distro with a GUI is all about what you need and like. You’ve got Ubuntu, which is super user-friendly, and then there’s Arch, which lets you tweak things to your heart’s content. Each one has its own special thing.

Think about what’s important to you—whether it’s how well it performs, how stable it is, or the kind of support you can get. That’ll help you choose the best one for your server.