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Asked: 2024-09-24T19:31:03+05:30 In:

How can I boot Ubuntu into console mode instead of the graphical interface?

I’ve been tinkering with Ubuntu lately, and I’ve come across a bit of a snag that I hope someone can help me with. So, here’s the scenario: I’ve got this old laptop that’s been running pretty sluggishly with the graphical interface. I thought it’d be a good idea to try and boot it into console mode instead of the usual graphical desktop environment to see if that helps speed things up a bit.

I didn’t think it would be too complicated, but here I am, totally clueless about how to make that happen. I’ve seen people mention using the GRUB menu to change boot options, but I’m not entirely sure how to navigate that. Do I need to edit any files, or can I just select something from the menu when it boots? I’d love to drop into a command line, but I don’t want to mess anything up in the process.

Also, once I’m in console mode, can I still access my files and programs? I know that using command line can be powerful, but I’m a little nervous about going back to that because it feels like I’m diving into the deep end without a floatie. I’ve also heard about different run levels, but honestly, it’s a lot of jargon to wrap my head around.

If there’s a step-by-step process or any tips on how to get this done, I’d really appreciate it. I’m eager to figure this out, not just for this laptop but also to improve my overall understanding of how Ubuntu works. I don’t want to end up stuck in some weird boot cycle or accidentally uninstall something crucial! Any guidance would really help me out, so I’m all ears for your ideas. Thanks in advance!

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    2 Answers



    1. Booting Ubuntu into Console Mode

      Booting Ubuntu into Console Mode

      If you’re looking to boot your old laptop into console mode (which is basically just the command line), you’re on the right track! It can definitely help speed things up a bit since you’re skipping the graphical interface. Here’s a step-by-step process you can follow:

      Using the GRUB Menu

      1. When you start your laptop, keep an eye out for the GRUB menu. You might need to press the Esc key or Shift key right after the BIOS screen disappears to see it.
      2. In the GRUB menu, use the arrow keys to select the entry for Ubuntu that you want to boot (usually the first option).
      3. Now, press the e key to edit the boot parameters for that selected entry.

      Editing Boot Parameters

      1. Look for a line that starts with linux. At the end of that line, you’ll want to remove the word quiet and splash (if they are there) and add text instead.
      2. It should look something like this:
        3.         linux /vmlinuz-... root=UUID=... ro text
      3. After that, press Ctrl + X or F10 to boot with these options.

      Accessing Your Files and Programs

      Once you’re in console mode, you can still access your files and programs! You just have to learn a bit of command line stuff:

      • To navigate your directories, use cd (change directory), like cd Documents to go into your Documents folder.
      • To list files in a directory, use ls.
      • You can run programs too; just type the name of the program (like firefox), but keep in mind it might not run if it requires a GUI.

      Run Levels and Console Mode

      About run levels, you can think of it like different modes of operating your system. In Ubuntu, you typically use systemctl commands (like systemctl isolate multi-user.target) to switch to a console mode. But really, for just trying it out, you can stick with the GRUB method above!

      Be Careful!

      Don’t worry too much; you’re not gonna mess anything up by booting into console mode. Just take your time, and if you feel stuck, you could always reboot from the GRUB menu and select the original option to return to the graphical interface.

      With a bit of practice, command line stuff can get pretty powerful and fun! Best of luck, and feel free to ask if you hit more bumps along the way!



    2. To boot your Ubuntu laptop into console mode, you will primarily be using the GRUB bootloader menu. Start by powering on your laptop. When the GRUB menu appears (this may require you to press and hold the Shift key or tap the ESC key during boot), you will see a list of available kernels. Highlight the kernel you wish to boot and press the ‘e’ key to edit the boot parameters. Look for the line that starts with “linux” and at its end, replace ‘quiet splash’ with ‘text’. This instructs Ubuntu to boot into a non-graphical mode. After making this change, press F10 or Ctrl+X to boot using these parameters. This process does not alter any system files; it simply modifies the boot for that session.

      Once you are successfully booted into console mode, you will have access to your files and programs through the command line. Your home directory is typically located at /home/your_username, and you can navigate using the `cd` command. Programs installed on your system are still available, and you can run them in console mode, although some may require adjustment to run without a GUI. Familiarize yourself with basic commands like `ls` (to list files), `cp` (to copy files), and `nano` (for text editing). Do take your time to explore and understand the command line; it is a powerful tool, and with practice, it will become less daunting. If you’re ever uncertain about a command or file, use the `man` command (manual) followed by the command’s name for help. This experience will enhance your understanding of Ubuntu while addressing the performance issues of your old laptop.


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