Install VNC Viewer Linux: A Step-by-Step Guide

When it comes to setting up a virtual network computing (VNC) system, there are many options available for choosing the right VNC server and desktop environment. This guide will walk you through the process of installing TightVNC on an Ubuntu 20.04 server and connecting to it securely through an SSH tunnel.

Step 1: Installing the Desktop Environment and VNC Server

By default, an Ubuntu 20.04 server does not come with a graphical desktop environment or a VNC server installed. To begin, you'll need to install these components.

On Linux, you have several options for VNC clients, including vinagre, krdc, RealVNC, and TightVNC. For this guide, we will be using TightVNC. If you're on macOS, you can use the built-in Screen Sharing program or a cross-platform app like RealVNC. On Windows, you can choose from TightVNC, RealVNC, or UltraVNC.

Requirements

To set up a VNC connection, you'll need:

* A local computer with a VNC client installed

* One Ubuntu 20.04 server with a non-root administrative user and a firewall configured with UFW

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Follow our initial server setup guide for Ubuntu 20.04 to set up your server.

2. Install TightVNC on your Ubuntu 20.04 server by running the command `sudo apt-get install tightvncserver`.

3. Start the VNC server by running the command `tightvncserver -geometry 1024x768`.

4. Note down the VNC password and display number (usually :1).

5. On your local machine, open a VNC client program and enter the IP address of your server followed by the display number and colon, for example, `192.168.1.100:1`.

6. Enter the VNC password you noted down earlier.

7. You should now be connected to your Ubuntu 20.04 server through a graphical desktop environment.

Benefits of Using VNC

VNC is a powerful tool that makes managing files, software, and settings on a remote server easier for users who are not yet comfortable with the command line. With VNC, you can use your keyboard and mouse to interact with a graphical desktop environment on a remote server, making it an ideal solution for system administrators and developers alike.

By following these steps, you'll be able to set up a secure VNC connection between your local machine and your Ubuntu 20.04 server using TightVNC and SSH tunneling. This will give you the flexibility to work on your server remotely while maintaining security and control over your remote desktop session.

Install vnc viewer linux