Hi everyone! I've set up two computers running Debian 13 with KDE Plasma. One acts as a home server but doesn't have a monitor, keyboard, or mouse connected to it. I'm looking to remotely control this server using my other computer, but I'm running into some issues. I've already tried using Remmina, but it didn't work out for me. Does remote desktop control require a monitor to be connected to the server? What tools or methods would you recommend for remote access?
6 Answers
For most Linux servers, the typical approach is to use SSH, which lets you manage your server through the command line from another computer. If you really need a GUI, there are web interfaces you can install, or you might consider some remote desktop options. But for simple tasks, SSH is usually sufficient!
Make sure you enable Remote Desktop in the settings on your KDE server. That’s an essential step to ensure it works properly.
You might also want to try installing xorgxrdp and xrdp. Just run `apt install xorgxrdp xrdp` and be sure to check out the README.Debian for any notes specific to Debian.
I personally use NoMachine for remote access to my devices. It works well on both Linux and Windows, so it might be worth checking out!
To access your KDE server remotely with a GUI, you'll need either a connected monitor, a dummy HDMI plug to simulate a monitor, or a virtual dummy monitor setup, which I use on my Radxa server. Here's a helpful link for setting that up: [Dummy Desktop Remote Access](https://brytsknguyen.github.io/Notes/ubuntu%20dummy%20desktop%20remote%20access/)
Have you thought about using RDP? It's pretty handy if you're looking for a graphical interface. Just keep in mind that SSH is often the simplest way if you're just needing terminal access. In my setup with Proxmox, I use SSH mostly, but I pull up the GUI through RDP when I need it.
Oh, I didn’t know that! That explains the black screen I got with Remmina. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction. I think I’ll opt for a dummy monitor.