Installing XRDP on Ubuntu Remote Desktop Access Easy Way
Introduction
Remote access to systems has become an essential part of today’s tech environment. Whether for system administration, remote support, or accessing files on a home server, having reliable remote desktop access is crucial. For Ubuntu users, one of the most efficient ways to achieve this is by Installing XRDP on Ubuntu.
XRDP is an open-source server that allows Linux users to access their systems via the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), which is widely supported by Windows and other operating systems. With XRDP, you can log into your Ubuntu machine’s graphical desktop environment from virtually any other device.
This comprehensive guide will cover what XRDP is, why it’s useful, how to install and configure it on Ubuntu, and how to ensure it runs securely and efficiently.
What is XRDP?
XRDP is a free and open-source implementation of the Microsoft RDP server for Unix-like systems, including Linux. It bridges the gap between Linux and RDP, allowing remote access to the Linux desktop using Microsoft’s native Remote Desktop client.
This means if you're using a Windows PC and want to remotely control your Ubuntu machine, you can use the built-in “Remote Desktop Connection” tool to log in and interact with your Linux desktop. That’s the power of XRDP.
Why Use XRDP on Ubuntu?
Using XRDP on Ubuntu brings multiple benefits:
Cross-Platform Access: XRDP allows users to connect from Windows, macOS, or another Linux system.
No Extra Clients Needed: Windows has a built-in RDP client, which makes it easy to connect without installing third-party software.
Multiple Desktop Environments: XRDP supports lightweight desktops like Xfce, MATE, and more, ensuring fast and smooth sessions.
User-Friendly: Graphical desktop access makes tasks easier for those less comfortable with the command line.
Open Source & Free: No licensing costs or vendor lock-in—just a reliable tool supported by the community.
Preparing to Install XRDP on Ubuntu
Before Installing XRDP on Ubuntu, make sure:
Your system is updated.
You have sudo access.
The firewall allows traffic on port 3389 (the default RDP port).
You have or plan to install a desktop environment.
This guide is tailored for Ubuntu 20.04, 22.04, or later, but the steps will work for most Ubuntu versions.
Step-by-Step Guide: Installing XRDP on Ubuntu
Step 1: Update the System
Run the following commands to update all packages:sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
This ensures the system is running the latest stable software before adding XRDP.
Step 2: Install XRDP
Install XRDP using the apt package manager:sudo apt install xrdp -y
After installation, XRDP runs automatically. You can check its status:sudo systemctl status xrdp
It should show the XRDP service as active and running.
Step 3: Install a Desktop Environment
If you're using Ubuntu Server or a minimal version without a graphical interface, install one. Xfce is lightweight and works well with XRDP:sudo apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies -y
Other supported desktop environments include MATE, LXQt, and KDE Plasma, but Xfce is preferred for speed and compatibility.
Step 4: Configure the Desktop Environment for XRDP
Tell XRDP to use Xfce for the remote session:echo "startxfce4" > ~/.xsession chmod +x ~/.xsession
This file will be executed when you log in via XRDP, starting the Xfce desktop.
Step 5: Edit XRDP Startup File (Optional Fix)
Edit the XRDP startup script to ensure the right session loads:sudo nano /etc/xrdp/startwm.sh
Find and comment out the following lines (if present):# test -x /etc/X11/Xsession && exec /etc/X11/Xsession
Then add this line before the final exec:startxfce4
Save and close the file.
Step 6: Allow RDP Through the Firewall
Enable RDP traffic through the default port 3389:sudo ufw allow 3389/tcp
If you’re using another firewall tool, adjust the settings accordingly.
Step 7: Restart XRDP
Apply all configuration changes:sudo systemctl restart xrdp
Connecting to Ubuntu via XRDP
After installing and configuring XRDP, connect from another computer.
On Windows: Open “Remote Desktop Connection,” type the Ubuntu system’s IP address, and log in with your Ubuntu username and password.
On Linux/macOS: Use an RDP client such as Remmina, FreeRDP, or Microsoft Remote Desktop.
Upon connection, you’ll be greeted with your Ubuntu desktop environment remotely.
Securing XRDP on Ubuntu
While XRDP is powerful, security should always be top of mind. Here are best practices:
Use SSH Tunneling
Instead of exposing XRDP directly to the internet, set up an SSH tunnel to forward port 3389 securely. This encrypts your connection and reduces attack risks.
Restrict Access to Specific IPs
Use UFW or other firewall tools to allow RDP access only from trusted IPs:sudo ufw allow from 192.168.1.100 to any port 3389
Use Fail2Ban
Install Fail2Ban to monitor failed login attempts and block potential brute-force attacks:sudo apt install fail2ban -y
Enable TLS Encryption
XRDP supports TLS for encrypted communication. Set this up by creating and configuring SSL certificates in the XRDP config files.
Keep Your System Updated
Security patches and updates often fix vulnerabilities in XRDP and Ubuntu itself. Keep your system current using:sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
Troubleshooting XRDP on Ubuntu
Black Screen After Login
This usually means the desktop environment isn’t configured correctly. Verify .xsession has the line:startxfce4
Also check if the session is conflicting with another X server.
Immediate Logout
This can occur if file permissions are incorrect. Ensure the user owns their home directory and .xsession is executable.
Port Blocked
If you can’t connect, test port 3389 using telnet or nmap from the client machine. Check firewall settings if blocked.
Advantages of XRDP for Ubuntu Users
Seamless Remote Access: Provides a graphical interface without the need for SSH or CLI-based tools.
Lightweight Performance: Excellent for low-resource systems when paired with Xfce.
Reliable for Daily Use: Stable connections and session persistence.
Great for Teams: Enables multiple users to access their own sessions simultaneously.
Enterprise-Friendly: Can be integrated with Active Directory and centralized access management.
Final Thoughts
Installing XRDP on Ubuntu gives users a powerful and flexible way to remotely access their Linux systems through a graphical interface. Whether you are managing your home server, working remotely, or offering IT support, XRDP is a reliable solution that integrates easily with Windows-based RDP clients.
The steps outlined above provide everything needed to get started—from installation to configuration and security. By taking the time to set up XRDP correctly, you can ensure stable, secure, and smooth remote desktop sessions on any Ubuntu machine.