Ubuntu 20.04: Installing and Configuring VNC Server

Are you having trouble setting up a VNC server on your Ubuntu 20.04 machine? You're not alone. Many users struggle to get started, especially when it comes to configuring the `xstartup` file. In this article, we'll walk you through the process of installing and configuring a VNC server on Ubuntu 20.04.

Running VNC Server via SSH

One common method for running VNC Server is via SSH. To do so, simply navigate to your terminal and run the command `$ vncserver`. This will start the VNC Server and allow you to access your desktop remotely. However, this may not be the most effective solution if you want to specify specific applications to launch upon connection.

Configuring xstartup

The `xstartup` file is used to specify the applications that should run when a user connects to the VNC server. By default, Ubuntu 20.04 uses GNOME as its desktop manager, so we don't need to install any additional packages. The problem lies in configuring the `xstartup` file to launch the desired applications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you're having trouble getting your VNC Server up and running, there are a few common issues to look out for. For example, if you're seeing a grey screen with no interactive elements, it's likely that your `xstartup` file is not correctly configured. In this case, try replacing the xfce command with gnome-session, as shown below:

```

# gnome-panel nautilus gnome-terminal metacity

```

Setting up a VNC Server on Ubuntu 20.04 can be a bit tricky, but by following these steps and troubleshooting common issues, you should be able to get started in no time. Remember to replace xfce with gnome-session if you're using GNOME as your desktop manager. If you're still having trouble, feel free to reach out for further assistance.

Ubuntu 20.04 install vnc server