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Rajesh Kumar Yadav
Rajesh Kumar Yadav Subscriber

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How to Install Ubuntu Desktop GUI on a VPS with RDP Access and get 5 Gbps internet speed

You can install a graphical user interface (GUI) on your Ubuntu VPS and access it remotely using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). This tutorial will guide you through the entire process.

For a visual walkthrough, watch this YouTube video:

Step 1: Update and Upgrade Packages

Before installing any software, ensure your system is up-to-date:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
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Step 2: Install a Desktop Environment

Choose a desktop environment based on your needs. Lightweight options like XFCE or LXDE are ideal for VPS setups.

Install XFCE:

sudo apt install xubuntu-desktop -y
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Step 3: Install an RDP Server

To access your desktop remotely, install xrdp:

sudo apt install xrdp -y
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Start and enable the RDP server:

sudo systemctl start xrdp
sudo systemctl enable xrdp
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Step 4: Allow RDP Port in Firewall

(You can skip this ufw command if you manage firewall using your hosting provider panel)

Ensure the RDP port (default 3389) is open:

sudo ufw enable
sudo ufw allow 3389
sudo ufw status
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To avoid your ssh connection to be aborted from next login, please keep it open, default is 22, so please run this too:

sudo ufw allow 22
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Step 5: Check Your Server’s IP Address

Find your server’s IP address to connect via RDP:

ip a
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Step 6: Connect to Your VPS Using RDP

From Windows:
1.Open the Remote Desktop Connection app (mstsc.exe)
2.OR Download Microsoft Remote Desktop or Windows App
3.Enter your server’s IP address and connect.

From macOS:
1.Download Microsoft Remote Desktop or Windows App from the App Store.
2.Add a new connection with your server’s IP.

From Linux:
1.Install Remmina:

sudo apt install remmina -y
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2.Open Remmina, choose RDP, and connect to your server.

YouTube Tutorial

For a visual walkthrough, watch this YouTube video:

Final Thoughts

With a desktop GUI and RDP access, managing your Ubuntu VPS becomes much more user-friendly. Whether you’re new to Linux or just prefer graphical interfaces, this setup is ideal for a wide range of tasks.

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Top comments (1)

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rajeshkumaryadavdotcom profile image
Rajesh Kumar Yadav

Please try to use minimum 2vCores, 4GB RAM, 50GB SSD, the more higher, the more better.

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