Tasksel is a Debian/Ubuntu tool that installs multiple related packages as a co-ordinated “task” onto your system.

This function is similar to that of meta-packages, and, in fact, most of the tasks available from tasksel are also available as meta-packages from the Ubuntu package managers (such as Synaptic Package Manager or KPackageKit).

The following section shows one of the uses of tasksel command.

The following steps will show you how to install another desktop environment.

Note: Debian 12.9.0 comes preinstalled with GNOME desktop environment.

1. In the terminal, type:

sudo tasksel

Notice that the terminal will look like this.

2. We want to install the Xfce desktop environment. Navigate the menu using up and down key. Press space to mark Xfce for installation. Make sure there is the (*) symbol.

3. Press Tab until Ok button is highlighted. Press Enter.

4. Wait for the installation to finish.

5. Once the installation finish, we will try and switch to the Xfce desktop environment. Click the top right button on the screen.

6. Click the power button.

7. Click Log Out…

8. Now, click your user.

9. Click the Gear icon on the bottom right corner.

10. Click Xfce Session.

11. Login as usual.

12. Notice that your desktop looks different. You have successfully changed your desktop environment!