Ubuntu 12.04 – How to Boot Directly to the Desktop

When you install Ubuntu, one of the options you are given is whether to automatically login (go directly to your desktop) or be required explicitly login using your password.

If you have chosen to require a login, you will boot to the login screen:

If you are the only user on the computer, it may be preferable to boot directly tot he desktop instead of being required to login each time:

1) Tap the Super (Windows) key to bring up the Dash Interface:

2) Type user accounts in the Dash query field:

3) Press the Enter key. This will automatically launch the User Accounts application.

4) Click on the Unlock icon in the upper right corner (notice that Automatic Login is set to OFF:

5) Enter your password and click on Authenticate (or press the Enter key):

6) Slide the Automatic Login slider to ON:

The next time you restart your computer, you will be brought directly to your desktop without having to login first.