Graphical Desktop using X2Go

Overview

The X2Go software uses the same SSH protocol as remote command-line connections to servers. But unlike plain SSH connections, X2Go provides a full remote graphical desktop environment. Further, you can disconnect and later reconnect to a running X2Go session. On the Virtual Machines in our Linux RCDC compute cloud, X2Go is not normally installed. But if you have a use-case for it, please contact the RCS team and we can help you to set up X2Go.

Installing X2Go Client

The X2Go Client is available for Mac, Windows, and Linux. To download a Mac or Windows installer, visit this page:

https://wiki.x2go.org/doku.php/download:start

Connecting to X2Go Server

A member of the RCS team will give you connection information, including username/password and IP address. They are the same settings as used by SSH software such as MobaXterm.

To connect:

Start the Carleton VPN if off-campus or on wireless
Launch the X2Go Client software
On the Session menu, click New Session
The first time you run X2Go on Windows, you might be asked to allow a few X2go connections through your Windows Defender Firewall.
Enter the following settings:
- Set Host to the provided IP address
- Set the Login to the provided username
- Set the Session type to MATE
- Optionally, on the Input/Output tab, select your preferred display size
- Click OK to close the session dialog

Screenshot of the Session Preferences page with circles around key information.

6. Click the box for your newly created session:

Screenshot of the X2Go Client with a red circle around the New Session.

7. Enter your password

The first time you connect, you will be asked if you trust the host key, click Yes.

Screenshot of the X2Go Client with the login request.

8. Finally, after successful login, you should see the remote Linux desktop:

Screenshot of the Remote Linux Desktop after successful login to the X2Go Session.