Graphical interface

Question

When I start my Pi, it boots to text and asks for the password. How do I start graphical version?

I tried holding the shift key when starting up, but it didn't change anything.

Answer 1

You can change how your Pi boots using the raspi-config script.

1. From a command prompt start raspi-config by typing the following:

   sudo raspi-config
   

2. select option 3 Boot Options,

3. then select option 3 Desktop or Desktop Autologin (The first will require the password, the second will not).

4. Click Ok and

5. click Finish to exit raspi-config.

Finally reboot to test your changes.

FYI holding down the shift key determines whether the Pi boots to safe mode.

Answer 2

If you just need to start it once:

sudo service lightdm restart

Assuming you are using the standard Raspbian.