Remote Access to the Ubuntu Linux Desktop

Ubuntu Linux provides remote desktop access. This provides two extremely useful features. Firstly it enables you, or another person to view and interact with your desktop environment from another computer system either on the same network or over the internet. This is useful if you need to work on your computer when you are away from your desk while travelling or sitting in a coffee shop. It is also useful in situations where a co-worker or IT support technician needs access to you desktop to resolve a problem.

Secondly, in addition to providing access to your primary desktop (the one you see when you switch on your monitor every morning) it enables you to create multiple desktops and connect to them remotely.

The Ubuntu Linux remote desktop functionality is based on technology called Virtual Network Computing (VNC) and in this chapter we will cover the key aspects of configuring and using remote desktops with Ubuntu Linux. It is important to note that there both secure and insecure ways to access a remote desktop, and both approaches will be covered.

Activating Remote Desktop Access

The first step in setting up remote desktop access is to activate it and define some basic security settings. These settings are configured in the Remote Desktop Preferences dialog. The access this dialog open the desktop System menu, select Preferences and click on Remote Desktop.