User logs in with minimal desktop environment

Solution Verified - Updated -

Issue

Issue

  • After login, only minimal desktop (twm) is shown
  • "GNOME" not available in "Sessions" menu on login screen
  • Desktop icons, background and panel is not visible

Environment

  • Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5
  • Gnome Desktop Environment

Resolution

1\. Install the packages:

yum groupinstall "GNOME Desktop Environment"

2\. Restart X11. This can be done, at least, in two different ways:

a. Using command line:

init 3 && init 5

b. Using the twm menu. Right click and select Exit

3\. In the login screen:

a. Click "Sessions" at bottom

b. Choose "GNOME Desktop"

Root Cause

Missing packages from "GNOME Desktop Environment" group.

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