Can I use Windows without a desktop GUI like Linux?
Yes, it is possible to use Windows without the traditional desktop GUI (graphical user interface), similar to Linux. This use of Windows without a GUI is mainly practiced in server environments, where a graphical interface is not always necessary and resources can be saved.
- Windows Server Core
This is an installation option of Windows Server that includes only the basic components of the operating system and does not provide a graphical user interface. It is specifically intended for scenarios where server roles and features are managed from the command line (command prompt) or PowerShell. Server Core is more resource-efficient because it requires less memory and CPU power, and offers a smaller attack surface due to the fewer number of installed components.
- Management
Management of a Windows Server Core is done through:
- PowerShell
For most administration tasks.
- Remote Management
Through Remote Server Administration Tools (RSAT), Windows Admin Center, or other remote management tools.
- MMC (Microsoft Management Console)
Certain MMC snap-ins can also be used remotely.
2.) NanoServers!
- Nano Server
An even more minimalistic variant than Server Core, but limited to container and cloud scenarios in Windows Server 2019 and later versions. Nano Server does not offer a local GUI and is managed completely remotely.
3.) Windows without Explorer.exe!
- Disabling Explorer.exe
Theoretically, even on a regular Windows installation, you can disable or prevent the desktop GUI (Explorer.exe) from starting. This could be done via group policy or by editing registry entries. In this state, you would not have a complete GUI-less system like Linux, but a minimalistic environment controlled mainly via the command line or specific applications (e.g. specialized software or scripts).
- Use cases
This method is rarely used and is rather experimental, since many Windows services and applications expect the GUI to be active. It may lead to unexpected behavior or difficulties when trying to use Windows in such a state.
4.) Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL)!
- WSL (Windows Subsystem for Linux)
Although this does not mean that Windows itself runs without a GUI, WSL allows you to use a full-fledged Linux environment on your Windows machine, operated primarily from the command line. This is especially useful for developers who need a Linux terminal while still using the Windows environment.
5.) Windows without desktop the summary!
Windows can operate in an environment without a desktop GUI, particularly by using Windows Server Core or Nano Server, both of which are optimized for headless server environments. There are also methods to disable the desktop GUI in regular Windows installations, but these are not commonly used and are not suitable for all scenarios.
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