How to Connect Windows 11 to Ubuntu: A Guide to XRDP
XRDP (a remote desktop tool that lets you see and control one computer from another) connects your Windows 11 PC to an Ubuntu machine so you can run Linux apps on your main screen. This setup works best with Ubuntu version 20.04 LTS or newer on the host system.
You can open files, use desktop tools, and manage your files without needing a second monitor or keyboard on your desk. Remote Desktop Protocol (a built-in Windows network tool) handles the connection between the two operating systems.
Install XRDP on Ubuntu using `sudo apt install xrdp` and configure it by adding the xrdp user to the ssl-cert group and editing the startwm.sh file. Then, connect from Windows 11 using the “Remote Desktop Connection” app with your Ubuntu IP address.
Why use xrdp?
This setup lets you manage files, run apps, or troubleshoot a remote system without leaving your Windows desk.
What happens when done?
When you finish these steps, you will have a direct window to your Ubuntu desktop right on your Windows 11 computer.
For more about xrdp, please visit its homepage.
Installing xrdp on Ubuntu
Installing xrdp on Ubuntu for your Windows 11 Ubuntu XRDP setup requires opening your terminal and running a couple of simple commands to download the remote desktop software. You update your package list first, and then you install the service so your computer can accept remote connections.
sudo apt update
sudo apt install xrdp
After installing, check that the service is running with this command:
sudo systemctl status xrdp
You should see that the service is active and running. Here's what that output looks like:
xrdp.service - xrdp daemon
Loaded: loaded (/lib/systemd/system/xrdp.service; enabled; vendor preset: enabled)
Active: active (running)
Configuring xrdp
Configuring xrdp for your Windows 11 Ubuntu XRDP connection involves adding your user account to the correct security group and updating a startup script. These quick changes fix the common black screen error so you can see your desktop properly when you log in remotely.
sudoadduser xrdp ssl-cert
Next, fix a common issue where the screen shows up black. Edit the startup script (requires admin privileges):
sudo nano /etc/xrdp/startwm.sh
Add these two lines to the end of the file:
unset DBUS_SESSION_ADDRESS
unset XDG_RUNTIME_DIR
Save the file and exit. Now, restart the service to apply the changes (requires admin privileges):
sudo systemctl restart xrdp
Finally, make sure your firewall allows the connection (requires admin privileges):
sudo ufw allow from 10.0.2.0/24 to any port 3389
sudo ufw reload
You cannot be logged in at the computer itself and through remote desktop at the same time.
Connecting from 🪟 Windows 11
On your Windows 11 PC, open the "Remote Desktop Connection" app. Type in the IP address of your Ubuntu machine and click connect.
If you see a security warning about a certificate, click Yes to proceed.
Enter your Ubuntu username and password when prompted.
Summary
Connecting Windows 11 to Ubuntu using XRDP gives you remote control of your Ubuntu desktop right from your PC.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
Followed the same steps but I get an error.
connecting to sesman ip 127.0.0.1 port 3350 sesman connect ok sending login info to session manager please wait login successful for display 10 started connecting connection problem giving up some problem
Hello! I’ve encountered the same error as well. I’ve tried all ways and means, but it is still not connecting. Please help. Thank you
Hi,
I followed the exact instruction but getting the following error:
connecting to sesman ip 127.0.0.1 port 3350
sesman connect ok
sending login info to session manager, please wait…
xrdp_mmprocess_login_response:login failed
Is there a way to access Linux from Windows 10, but without logging out from Ubuntu?
I have followed the steps once while i was logged in Ubuntu through Powershell and then with closed. In both cases it doesn’t open GUI Desktop and xorg window just closes no error.
This was very helpful and worked perfectly. Thank you!