How to correctly install MATE desktop environment on Ubuntu 16.04 LTS and newer versions?

Question

I have just installed Ubuntu 16.04 LTS from network boot mini.iso. I want to install fully-functional MATE DE to it.

How should I install it correctly to look like Ubuntu MATE?

Answer 1

You have to install special task package with one of two methods:

• with tasksel:

  sudo apt-get install tasksel
  sudo tasksel install ubuntu-mate-desktop
  

• with APT:

  sudo apt-get install ubuntu-mate-desktop^
  

And then use the full power power and enjoy the beauty of MATE DE.

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Notes:

1. if you are interested in installing the minimal MATE DE - it is installable from other task package named ubuntu-mate-core^ - see my other answer.
2. do not use tasksel to remove packages from the system (see this post for details)!