Best 5 Remote Desktop Software for Ubuntu

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of remote desktop solutions, Ubuntu users often find themselves on a quest for software that seamlessly integrates with their operating system. This guide is designed to demystify the process of selecting the best remote desktop software for Ubuntu. We'll delve into the intricacies of various options, providing insights, recommendations, and installation tips.

Understanding Ubuntu Compatibility

Ubuntu users must prioritize certain features to ensure optimal performance when selecting remote desktop software. Compatibility is crucial, and a close alignment with Ubuntu's unique characteristics is essential for a seamless remote access experience. Let's explore the key considerations.

Top 5 Picks: Best Remote Desktop Software for Ubuntu

Remmina: Best Linux Remote Desktop Client for High Performance

Remmina stands out as a high-performance remote desktop client tailored specifically for Linux users. While it may not include all the bells and whistles of some commercial tools, it delivers where it matters—connection flexibility and stability. Whether you're accessing a VNC, RDP, SSH, XDMCP, or NX server, Remmina has you covered with broad protocol support.

Performance & Usability

Remmina allows users to manually fine-tune connection quality to match their bandwidth, making it ideal for variable network environments. A major highlight is the ability to adjust color depth and visual fidelity in real-time, helping you get the best performance possible during remote sessions.

The interface is tabbed, so you can manage multiple sessions from a single window—an efficient setup for multitaskers or system administrators. Once connected, you’ll find handy controls to switch between full-screen, scaled mode, and other common functions. You can even send all keyboard commands directly to the remote system with a single click.

Setup & Configuration

To start using Remmina, you’ll need to create a connection profile. The setup is simple: choose a protocol, enter the server’s IP, and you’re ready to connect. Depending on the protocol, you can fine-tune other parameters such as:

• Color depth and image quality (especially for VNC)
• Encryption options
• “View Only” mode
• Hotkey customization
• Resolution presets

All these options are available under Preferences, where you can also modify auto-save behaviors and client interface settings.

Security

Remmina encrypts VNC connections using the robust AES-256 algorithm, offering peace of mind when handling sensitive data. While it lacks its own server-side software or mobile versions, it integrates well with existing infrastructures and secure environments.

What It Lacks

Despite its strengths, Remmina does have some limitations:

• No mobile apps for Android or iOS
• No proprietary server—you must connect to third-party or system-integrated servers
• Limited advanced features compared to premium tools like AnyViewer or TeamViewer

Support & Resources

Remmina’s website provides basic support, including:

• A feature breakdown
• Several screenshots
• A minimal FAQ section
• A basic but helpful Wiki for common usage questions

If you're a Linux user in need of a fast, lightweight, and flexible remote desktop client, Remmina is one of your best bets. It’s perfect for developers, sysadmins, and IT professionals who want control without unnecessary complexity. While it lacks some advanced features and mobile support, its protocol versatility and performance optimization make it a reliable tool for daily remote access tasks.

RealVNC Connect: Best Linux Remote Desktop Client for File Transfers

If file transfer is a top priority for your remote desktop needs, RealVNC Connect is the ideal choice for Linux users. While it’s compatible with other VNC servers, it performs best when used with its own server-side software—especially on platforms like the Raspberry Pi, where it comes preinstalled with Raspbian.

Setup & Customization

To establish a connection, you'll need to manually create a new profile by entering the server’s IP address. Once configured, you can use the default options or customize settings through three tabs:

• General – Basic connection info
• Options – Visuals, input, and behavior tweaks
• Expert – Advanced configuration for experienced users

These settings can also be adjusted during a live session via the F8 key or the hidden top menu bar in the session window.

File Transfer & Messaging

One of RealVNC Connect’s standout features is its built-in file transfer capability, available only when connected to a RealVNC server. You can send and receive files with ease and also engage in instant chat messaging, making real-time collaboration smoother.

The client also auto-saves screenshots during sessions and remembers your login credentials for faster reconnections—a big plus for managing multiple systems.

Remote Session Experience

RealVNC Connect supports:

• Multiple concurrent sessions
• Full-screen and scaling modes
• Local printer sharing
• Hardware acceleration (on Raspberry Pi, for apps like Minecraft Pi or omxplayer video playback)

This makes it a great tool not only for administrative tasks but also for graphical work and multimedia use on remote machines.

Security & Customization

Security-conscious users will appreciate the option to set a master password for the client, preventing unauthorized access. The Preferences window also opens the door to deeper configuration via Expert parameters, allowing for granular control over connection behavior and encryption options.

Interface & Usability

RealVNC Connect features a polished interface that hides the tool panel when not in use, keeping your workspace clean. With just a press of the F8 key, you can access file transfer, chat, and display settings without interrupting your workflow.

RealVNC Connect is an excellent remote desktop tool for Linux users who prioritize secure and efficient file transfers. It shines when paired with its server software, especially on Raspberry Pi devices, and offers a range of features that support both casual remote tasks and high-performance graphical work. Although the setup may seem a bit technical at first, the powerful functionality more than makes up for it.

TeamViewer: Best All-in-One Remote Desktop Client for Cross-Platform Support

TeamViewer stands out as one of the most versatile and powerful remote desktop tools available today. With its intuitive design, rich feature set, and cross-platform support, TeamViewer caters to everyone, from casual users and IT professionals to enterprise-level organizations. Whether you're remotely accessing a server, providing tech support, or collaborating in real-time, TeamViewer delivers a robust and secure experience.

Interface & Usability

TeamViewer offers a modern, polished interface that’s easy to navigate even for beginners. Installation is straightforward, and no port forwarding or network configuration is required. Connections can be made using a unique ID and password or by logging into your TeamViewer account to manage all devices in one place.

The dashboard includes everything from remote control and file transfer to chat and session logging. Users can quickly invite others, toggle screen sharing, or initiate voice/video calls—making it a great solution for remote meetings as well.

File Transfer & Collaboration Tools

Unlike many VNC-based tools, TeamViewer includes built-in file transfer, which works reliably across all supported platforms. Files can be moved between devices by drag-and-drop or through the transfer dialog.

Additional collaboration tools include:

• Text and voice chat during sessions
• Whiteboard and annotation tools for presentations
• Multi-monitor support
• Session recording for training or documentation

These features make TeamViewer a true all-in-one solution for both remote IT support and teamwork.

Cross-Platform Performance

One of TeamViewer’s greatest strengths is its full cross-platform compatibility. You can connect from a Windows laptop to a Mac, from an Android phone to a Linux machine, or any other combination. Performance is fast and responsive, even over mobile data or slow networks, thanks to adaptive quality settings.

Unattended access is also easy to configure, allowing you to manage remote devices without user interaction—perfect for managing servers or helping friends and family.

Security Features

TeamViewer is equipped with enterprise-level security, including:

• End-to-end 256-bit AES encryption
• Two-factor authentication (2FA)
• Trusted device verification
• Blacklist/whitelist management

These safeguards ensure that all sessions remain private and protected, making TeamViewer a reliable choice for sensitive business use.

Limitations

While the free version of TeamViewer is generous, it comes with strict limitations if used for what it suspects is commercial activity. Sessions may be blocked or limited without warning, prompting users to upgrade.

Additionally, TeamViewer is heavier on system resources than leaner clients like TigerVNC or Remmina, which may matter if you're working on lower-spec hardware or virtual machines.

Documentation & Support

TeamViewer provides comprehensive documentation, including how-to articles, video tutorials, and community forums. Paid users get access to priority support, making it easy to resolve technical issues quickly.

TeamViewer is the gold standard in remote desktop software for those seeking maximum functionality, cross-platform support, and strong security in one package. It’s ideal for IT support teams, remote workers, and business users who need a reliable, polished, and feature-rich remote desktop solution. While the commercial-use restrictions on the free version are a drawback, the overall capabilities of TeamViewer make it a top-tier choice for professional and personal use alike.

TigerVNC: Best Linux Remote Desktop Client with an Intuitive Interface

TigerVNC is a powerful open-source remote desktop client that combines a streamlined interface with solid performance. While it may not be the flashiest VNC client on the market, its intuitive design and flexibility make it an excellent choice for users who value usability and customization.

Ease of Use & Interface

TigerVNC’s standout feature is its clean and easy-to-navigate interface. Even though it doesn’t automatically detect VNC servers on the local network, setting up a connection is straightforward—just manually enter the remote server’s IP address.

For everyday users, the default connection settings work well right out of the box, while advanced users can dive into detailed options such as encoding type, compression level, screen size, and color depth.

Customizable Session Settings

TigerVNC allows users to:

• Select encoding and compression types
• Adjust color quality for bandwidth optimization
• Enable or disable clipboard sharing
• Choose screen size and resolution
• Launch view-only sessions
• Run full-screen mode for an immersive experience

All these settings help tailor the experience to match both performance needs and connection quality.

Security Features

Security is another key strength. TigerVNC uses TLS encryption by default to protect remote sessions. While it can’t verify server identity under TLS alone, it also supports X509Vnc encryption, which allows full server authentication and tighter security protocols.

Keyboard & Session Controls

During a remote session, pressing F8 opens a handy in-session menu, where you can:

• Toggle special keys like Ctrl and Alt
• Switch color levels or encoding on the fly
• Convert the session into a view-only mode

This level of control makes managing and adapting the session smooth and user-friendly.

Connection Management

TigerVNC also enables users to save connection settings to individual configuration files, which can be reused on the same device or transferred to others. This feature is especially useful for administrators managing multiple systems.

Performance

TigerVNC performs reliably across various VNC server types, delivering consistent, high-speed connections with minimal lag. Its efficiency shines even in environments with limited bandwidth, thanks to tunable performance settings.

Limitations

While TigerVNC excels in core remote desktop functionality, it lacks mobile versions for iOS and Android, and doesn’t support file transfers or in-session messaging. These missing features may not matter for users focused purely on remote control and monitoring, but they could be deal-breakers for those needing a more collaborative experience.

TigerVNC is a rock-solid choice for Linux users seeking a no-fuss, high-performance remote desktop experience. It may not have advanced collaboration tools or mobile support, but for users who prioritize speed, reliability, and control within a clean interface, TigerVNC delivers exceptional value. Ideal for sysadmins, developers, and anyone who wants a lightweight, customizable VNC client.

TightVNC: Best Linux Remote Desktop Client for Windows Users

TightVNC is a lightweight, no-frills remote desktop client that mirrors much of the functionality found in tools like TigerVNC. While it offers solid basics for remote desktop access, it caters more to Windows users, with certain features—like file transfers—only available on that platform. If you're operating in a mixed OS environment with a focus on Windows, TightVNC is a practical choice.

Interface & Usability

TightVNC uses a simple, straightforward interface—a textbox-style layout where you manually enter the IP address of the remote VNC server. Unlike TigerVNC’s tabbed configuration, TightVNC consolidates all options into a single window, making setup slightly quicker for experienced users.

Once connected, you’ll see a toolbar across the top of the session window, offering quick access to:

• Send special keys (e.g., Ctrl, Alt)
• Adjust mouse cursor tracking
• Disable clipboard sync
• Modify other session behaviors on the fly

This always-visible toolbar is easier to access than the hidden F8 menu in TigerVNC, especially for users who prefer visible controls.

File Transfer & Platform Support

While TightVNC includes a Java viewer (making it platform-independent in theory), the file transfer feature is exclusive to Windows users. Linux users won’t have access to that functionality, which limits the tool's usefulness for transferring files between platforms.

That said, TightVNC is one of the few clients that integrates well with SSH tunneling, making it a solid pick for secure remote desktop access in environments where data privacy is a concern.

Multimedia Performance

If you're looking to stream videos or run multimedia-heavy applications remotely, TightVNC is not the right choice. Even simple games like Snake showed severe lag in testing, over 2 seconds of delay on keyboard input. It’s fine for viewing static content like PDFs or light office tasks, but it struggles with anything dynamic.

Documentation & Support

TightVNC’s support resources are minimal. The official website offers only a basic PDF guide—and it’s tailored for Windows users. Linux users may find themselves relying on community forums or trial and error.

For those who need dedicated support, a paid subscription is available, which includes professional assistance and additional features.

Security Features

TightVNC offers solid SSH tunneling support, allowing you to pass VNC connections securely over SSH. It also includes controls to toggle clipboard sharing and modify mouse/cursor behavior, giving users fine-tuned control over session privacy and interaction.

TightVNC is a decent remote desktop client for users who primarily work in Windows environments but also need occasional access from Linux. Its Java viewer, SSH support, and Windows file transfer capabilities make it appealing for lightweight, secure remote access. However, its lack of robust Linux support, poor multimedia handling, and minimal documentation mean it's best suited for experienced users who know their way around VNC and don't rely on rich media performance.

How to Install and Optimize Remote Desktop Software on Ubuntu

Now that you've identified the best-suited remote desktop software for your Ubuntu system, let's walk through the installation process and optimize its performance:

Install Remote Desktop Software on Ubuntu

Step 1. Choose Your Software and Download

Visit the official website of your chosen remote desktop software. Follow the download link and select the Ubuntu version. Download the installation package to your system.

Step 2. Install the Software

Locate the downloaded package and initiate the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation. This may involve providing administrative privileges.

Step 3. Configure Settings

Once installed, open the remote desktop software. Configure the settings according to your preferences. This may include setting security options, display settings, and user permissions.

Step 4. Test the Connection

Before optimizing, test the remote desktop connection to ensure it's functioning correctly. Connect to another device or server and verify the responsiveness and reliability of the connection.

Optimizing Performance on Ubuntu

• Update Your Software: Regularly check for updates to ensure you have the latest version of the remote desktop software, including bug fixes and performance improvements.
• Adjust Display Settings: Fine-tune display settings to match your preferences and system capabilities.
• Optimize Network Settings: Ensure a stable and high-speed internet connection to enhance the overall performance of your remote desktop connection.

Bonus Recommendation: A Powerful Cross-Platform Remote Access Alternative – AnyViewer

Although AnyViewer currently does not support Ubuntu natively, it deserves an honorable mention for users who operate in a multi-platform environment. If you're someone who uses Ubuntu alongside other operating systems—like Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android—then AnyViewer can still play a crucial role in your remote access workflow.

Why consider AnyViewer, even without Ubuntu support?

• Seamless cross-platform compatibility: AnyViewer allows remote access between Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android. It’s especially beneficial for users who need to connect to or from non-Ubuntu devices, such as providing support to clients or coworkers using Windows PCs.
• High-performance connection: With low-latency performance, fast response times, and support for unattended remote access, AnyViewer is trusted by over 1 million users for stable and secure remote sessions.
• Enterprise-grade security: ECC-256 end-to-end encryption ensures your data and connections are safe, making it a reliable choice for business and personal use.
• Ideal for hybrid setups: Even though Ubuntu isn’t directly supported yet, many users incorporate AnyViewer to manage their Windows-based servers or desktops while using Ubuntu for development or daily tasks.
• Mobile-friendly: You can access your Windows or Mac machine remotely from your smartphone or tablet, making it a flexible tool for remote work on the go.

Pro Tip: If you're using Ubuntu as your main operating system but also maintain access to Windows devices—for gaming, business, or support purposes—AnyViewer is a highly efficient solution for remote control and support.

We hope that Ubuntu compatibility will be added in future updates. In the meantime, AnyViewer is a top-tier remote desktop software for mixed environments and stands out as a user-friendly, reliable, and secure option worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best remote desktop software for Ubuntu?

A: The ideal choice depends on your specific needs. Software A, B, and C are excellent options, each with its unique strengths. Consider factors such as features, performance, and user reviews to make an informed decision.

Q: How can I secure my remote desktop connection on Ubuntu?

A: Security is paramount. Follow best practices, including using strong passwords, enabling encryption, and keeping your software up-to-date, to ensure a secure remote desktop connection.

Q: Are there free options available for remote desktop on Ubuntu?

A: Yes, several free options cater to Ubuntu users. Explore our guide for recommendations on reliable free remote desktop software for Ubuntu.

Conclusion

In conclusion, navigating the realm of remote desktop software for Ubuntu doesn't have to be daunting. Armed with the right information and insights, users can confidently choose the best solution for their remote access needs. Whether you're a seasoned Ubuntu user or a newcomer, this comprehensive guide has you covered.