Should the server version of AnduinOS have a UI?

[Anduin2017]

If AnduinOS is building AnduinOS for server? Should the server version have GUI?

Confirmed to be removed in Server edition:

• Gnome apps like calculator, calendar, music player, video player, etc.
• Gnome extensions like weather, ibus customization, color customization.
• Zram.
• Flatpak.
• Wallpapers. Only a single server wallpaper.
• Grub theme, plymouth theme, etc.
• Appearance settings.
• Printers support, scanner support, OOBE app.

But what should be kept?

[siyamsec-lab]

I think the server version should be minimal and not include a GUI by default. Most servers are managed through SSH or web-based tools, and removing the desktop environment can reduce resource usage and the attack surface. However, users who need a GUI should still have the option to install one manually. This would keep the default server version lightweight while remaining flexible.

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[FromLinuxWithLove]

If you want to target not just Windows users, but also Windows server admins, I’d definitely recommend orienting it as closely as possible around the Windows Server environment. So, a graphical installer where you can choose whether you want a GUI or not is a must. You should also be able to select which services you want to install, such as CUPS, DHCP, SSH, Samba etc.

tbh. I would just set up Windows Server 2025 inside a VM and use it as an inspiration. It's basically Web Browser, File Manager, Terminal and the Server Manager.

I mean, there are still Windows admins who don’t know that you can have a GUI on Linux servers too and this would be a great chance to prove them wrong. In my experience, Windows Server admins think they’re pretty smart until they see a CLI. So if you want them as users, everything needs to have a GUI.

As for the interface for AnduinOS Server, I’d use the modified shell that you’re already using for the desktop version. You could also create a lightweight version with the Xfce desktop and position it as an alternative to Windows IoT.

I think the hard part is convincing people that it’s a genuinely good alternative, rather than just a poor copy of Windows. So, you need to establish your own brand, much like Affinity Photo did as an alternative to Photoshop.

tl;dr
Windows Server admins expect a GUI, whereas Linux Server admins generally don’t.

[pbflaviotheodoro]

Hello!
I think the installer should offer the option to install with or without a graphical interface, allowing the IT technician to choose whether they want a server with or without a graphical environment.

[petloverth]

setup time GUI is better for Beginner or Intermediate user, It's good on boot time had a choice depending on user.