Setting Up a VNC Server on Ubuntu 22.04

Introduction:

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a powerful remote desktop protocol that allows you to access and control your Ubuntu 22.04 desktop environment from a remote computer. In this tutorial, we will guide you through the process of setting up a VNC server on your Ubuntu 22.04 machine, enabling you to access your desktop remotely.

Step 1: Update Ubuntu

Before we begin, it’s essential to make sure your system is up to date. Open a terminal and run the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install a VNC Server

There are several VNC server options available for Ubuntu. In this tutorial, we will use ‘TigerVNC.’ Install it by running the following command:

sudo apt install tigervnc-standalone-server

Step 3: Configure VNC

Create a new VNC configuration file for your user. Replace ‘your_username’ with your actual username:

touch ~/.vnc/xstartup
chmod +x ~/.vnc/xstartup
nano ~/.vnc/xstartup

In the ‘xstartup’ file, add the following lines:

#!/bin/bash
xrdb $HOME/.Xresources
startxfce4 &  # Use 'startxfce4' or your preferred desktop environment

Save and close the file (Ctrl+O, Enter, Ctrl+X).

Step 4: Set a VNC Password

Set a VNC password using the vncpasswd command:

vncpasswd

You will be prompted to enter and confirm the VNC password.

Step 5: Configure the VNC Server Service

Create a systemd service file for the VNC server:

sudo nano /etc/systemd/system/[email protected]

Add the following content to the file:

[Unit]
Description=VNC Server for %i
After=syslog.target network.target

[Service]
Type=forking
User=%i
PAMName=login
PIDFile=/home/%i/.vnc/%H%i.pid
ExecStartPre=-/usr/bin/vncserver -kill :%i > /dev/null 2>&1
ExecStart=/usr/bin/vncserver :%i -geometry 1920x1080 -depth 24 -localhost no
ExecStop=/usr/bin/vncserver -kill :%i

[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.target

Save and close the file (Ctrl+O, Enter, Ctrl+X).

Step 6: Enable and Start the VNC Service

Enable and start the VNC service for your user:

sudo systemctl enable [email protected]  # Replace '1' with your display number
sudo systemctl start [email protected]

Step 7: Configure Firewall Rules

If you have UFW (Uncomplicated Firewall) enabled, allow the VNC port (5901 in this example):

sudo ufw allow 5901/tcp

Step 8: Connect to Your VNC Server

You can now connect to your Ubuntu 22.04 VNC server from a remote computer using a VNC client. Use the IP address or hostname of your Ubuntu machine followed by the display number (e.g., your_server_ip:1) and enter the VNC password when prompted.

Conclusion

You have successfully set up a VNC server on your Ubuntu 22.04 machine, allowing you to access your desktop remotely. Remember to secure your VNC connection and keep your system updated for a safe and smooth remote desktop experience.