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Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 1:45 pm
by smoore
Hi All
I've been reading with interest how to setup YAMS and I'm hoping to have time to try it out this evening.
I'll initially be installing on a fresh Ubuntu system, a laptop so I will have access to keyboard/mouse/display easily so I can test things out.
My aim is to ultimately install this on a small desktop machine, and run it without any peripherals.
Connecting with command line only is fine, but a lot of server software seems to provide GUI access these days.
Any advice on the best way for me to approach this? I know I can connect to Plex via the web interface, but not sure about everything else?
Many thanks,
Simon
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 1:57 pm
by rogs
Hey @smoore!
You don’t need a GUI at all for the final setup. Everything can be done over SSH, so once you install your OS (Ubuntu Server works great), just enable SSH and connect from your regular PC.
All of those tools come with their own web interfaces:
- Plex: http://<your-server-ip>:32400/web
- Sonarr: http://<your-server-ip>:8989
- Radarr: http://<your-server-ip>:7878
So once they’re up and running, you can manage everything straight from your browser, no need for a desktop environment or monitor.
If you're new to headless setups, here are a couple of optional tips:
- Enable SSH during the Ubuntu Server installation. If you are using Windows, use puTTY to connect via SSH
- If you ever want a super lightweight GUI for server management, check out Cockpit. It runs in your browser too.
Once it’s all installed, you can basically treat your server like an appliance: turn it on, and forget about it.
Cheers!
Roger.
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 2:05 pm
by smoore
Hi Roger
Thanks for the quick and comprehensive reply!
I'll give it a try with Ubunto server today and see what happens.
No doubt I will have more questions I'm afraid!
Best regards,
Simon
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 2:08 pm
by rogs
Yes, of course! Feel free to ask as many questions as you’d like.
We have a super thriving community on Matrix and Discord where lots of people (not just me!) are happy to help out. You’re more than welcome to join, but no pressure if you’d rather not 
Cheers, and happy learning!
Roger.
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 2:14 pm
by smoore
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 6:09 pm
by smoore
Just did my first installation and went without a hitch - so the instructions are clearly idiot proof!
My little laptop didn't like it though, CPU usage and temperature shot up and the fans kicked in at full speed.
Not surprising, it's an old dual-core macbook.
Off to try and change the CMOS battery in my other machine and will try it on that - still not a new machine but it's an early i7 so hopefully will handle the services better.
Cheers,
Simon
Re: Server without GUI
Posted: Fri May 30, 2025 6:44 pm
by rogs
Amazing! Thank you for the feedback 