How to Connect to Windows VPS from Linux Using Remmina or Rdesktop
If you’re using Linux and need to access a Windows VPS via Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), you’re in luck. There are reliable tools like Remmina and Rdesktop that make the process simple and efficient. This guide will show you how to connect using both options.
🔹 What You’ll Need
- A Linux machine (Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora, etc.)
- Your Windows VPS IP address
- Your username (usually “Administrator”)
- Your password
- A working internet connection
🔸 Option 1: Connect Using Remmina
Remmina is a modern, user-friendly remote desktop client available on most Linux distros.
✅ Step 1: Install Remmina
For Ubuntu/Debian-based systems:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install remmina
For Fedora:
sudo dnf install remmina
For Arch:
sudo pacman -S remmina
💡 You can also install the RDP plugin if not included:
sudo apt install remmina-plugin-rdp
✅ Step 2: Launch Remmina and Set Up the Connection
- Open Remmina from your applications menu.
- In the top bar, enter your VPS IP address in the “Quick Connect” field.
- Select RDP – Remote Desktop Protocol from the dropdown.
- Click the Connect button.
✅ Step 3: Enter Login Credentials
- Enter your username (usually
Administrator) and password when prompted. - You’ll be connected to your Windows VPS in a window.
✅ Optional: Save the Connection
- Click the + (Create a new connection profile).
- Fill in:
- Name
- Protocol: RDP
- Server: VPS IP address
- Username and password
- Save it for quick future access.
🔸 Option 2: Connect Using Rdesktop
Rdesktop is a lightweight, terminal-based alternative for RDP access.
✅ Step 1: Install Rdesktop
For Ubuntu/Debian:
sudo apt install rdesktop
✅ Step 2: Connect to VPS
Run the following command:
rdesktop [your-vps-ip]
For example:
rdesktop 192.168.1.100
It will prompt for your password and then open a window with your VPS desktop.
📝 Note: Rdesktop is older and less maintained than Remmina. Consider it a backup option or for minimal setups.
🔐 Security Tips
- Avoid saving passwords in plain text or command-line history.
- Use a VPN or firewall to limit who can access RDP on your VPS.
- Change the default RDP port (3389) for added security.
🛠️ Troubleshooting
- Connection refused? Make sure RDP is enabled on your VPS and port 3389 is open.
- Black screen or disconnect? Try reducing resolution or color depth in Remmina.
- Credentials not accepted? Double-check username spelling and password case.
Linux users can enjoy full access to Windows VPS just like Windows or macOS users. Whether you prefer the GUI-friendly Remmina or the command-line simplicity of Rdesktop, both get the job done effectively.