Most VPS providers give you a plain Linux server without any graphical interface. That’s perfect for servers, but sometimes you may want a desktop environment on your VPS. For example, to run GUI applications, manage files visually, or use a web browser. In this post, we will learn how to install the lightweight XFCE desktop environment on Debian and set up X2Go, a fast remote desktop solution, so you can access your VPS with a graphical interface.
Install XFCE Desktop on VPS
Update your package list and run the following commands one by one to install XFCE and some useful extras:
1) sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
2) sudo apt install xfce4 xfce4-goodies -yThis installs the XFCE desktop environment with a panel, file manager, terminal, and system utilities.
Install X2Go Server
Now install the X2Go server on the VPS running the following command:
sudo apt install x2goserver x2goserver-xsession -yThe server will run automatically in the background and listen for connections.
Install X2Go Client on Your Computer
On your local computer, download and install X2Go Client
When you launch X2Go Client, click New Session and fill in:
- Host: your VPS IP
- Login: your VPS username
- SSH Port: usually 22 (unless changed)
- Session Type: select XFCE from the dropdown
Save the session and connect. That’s it, now you can access GUI on your VPS.