In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of completely uninstalling the LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment from your system. This might be necessary if you’re switching to a different desktop environment, or if you simply no longer need the LXDE/Lubuntu environment.
To completely uninstall the LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment, open a terminal and run the command "sudo apt-get remove –auto-remove lubuntu-desktop". Then, clean up any residual packages and dependencies by running "sudo apt-get autoremove". If you want to switch back to the default Ubuntu desktop, you can reinstall it with the command "sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktop".
Understanding LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment
Lubuntu is a lightweight Linux distribution based on Ubuntu but using the LXDE desktop environment in place of Ubuntu’s Unity shell and GNOME desktop. LXDE is noted for its performance and low resource usage. However, if you’ve installed it for testing or exploration and now wish to remove it, you can do so by following these steps.
Prerequisites
Before we start, ensure you have administrative access to your system. You’ll need to enter commands in the terminal, and some of these commands require root (administrative) privileges.
Also, it’s always a good idea to back up any important data before making significant changes to your system.
Removing LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment
Opening a Terminal
First, open a terminal. You can do this by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T on your keyboard.
Running the Uninstall Command
In the terminal, copy and paste the following command:
sudo apt-get remove --auto-remove lubuntu-desktopThis command does the following:
sudo: This runs the command as an administrator.apt-get: This is the package handling utility in Ubuntu and other Debian-based systems.remove: This command removes the package.--auto-remove: This command removes any dependency packages that were automatically installed to satisfy dependencies for other packages and are now no longer needed.lubuntu-desktop: This is the metapackage for the Lubuntu desktop environment.
Press Enter to execute the command. You’ll be asked for your password. Type it in and press Enter again.
Cleaning Up
After running the above command, there might still be some residual packages and dependencies. To remove them, run the following command:
sudo apt-get autoremoveThis command removes packages that were automatically installed to satisfy dependencies for some package and that are no longer needed.
Reinstalling Ubuntu Desktop (If Needed)
If you want to switch back to the default Ubuntu desktop, you can install the ubuntu-desktop package using the following command:
sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktopConclusion
By following these steps, you should have successfully removed the LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment from your system. Remember, it’s always important to back up your data before making significant changes to your system. If you have any issues, refer to the official Ubuntu documentation or ask for help on the Ubuntu forums.
Remember that the Linux terminal is a powerful tool. With it, you can make significant changes to your system, including installing and uninstalling software. Understanding the commands you’re using and their parameters can help you make the most of this tool.
Yes, uninstalling LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment will only remove the desktop environment and its associated packages. Your other installed software should remain unaffected.
No, uninstalling LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment does not delete your personal files and data. It only removes the desktop environment and its associated packages. However, it’s always a good idea to back up your important data before making any significant changes to your system.
Yes, you can reinstall LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment if you change your mind. Simply follow the installation instructions for LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment and you’ll have it back on your system.
Uninstalling LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment should not have a significant impact on the performance or speed of your system. In fact, it may free up system resources that were previously used by the desktop environment. However, the overall performance of your system depends on various factors, so results may vary.
After running the uninstall command and the cleanup command, you can restart your system and log in. If you no longer see the LXDE/Lubuntu desktop environment and instead see the default Ubuntu desktop or another desktop environment, it indicates that LXDE/Lubuntu Desktop Environment has been successfully uninstalled.
