RustDesk: A Remote Desktop Solution

Introduction

• Objective: Discuss RustDesk, a remote desktop solution.
• Topics Covered:
  1. What remote desktops are.
  2. Different ways to use them.
  3. Configuring RustDesk in different setups.
  4. Demo setup for Windows, Linux, and MacOS.

What is a Remote Desktop?

• A remote desktop allows users to see and control another computer's desktop over the same local area network (LAN) or over the Internet.
• LAN Usage:
  • Useful for accessing headless setups or assisting others on the same network.
• Internet Usage:
  • Enables remote assistance between distant locations.

Popular Remote Desktop Solutions

• Windows Remote Desktop: Built into Pro versions of Windows, also available for other OSes.
• VNC and Variants: Popular with Linux machines.
• Chrome Remote Desktop, TeamViewer, AnyDesk, NoMachine: Various platforms with internet access features.

Why RustDesk?

• Open Source: Unlike Windows RDP, makes it preferable for privacy and cost.
• Written in Rust: Reduces memory and security errors.
• Cross-Platform: Compatible with Windows, MacOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
• Free and Self-Hosted: Allows for secure, private hosting of remote desktop connections.

Configuring RustDesk

Local Area Network (LAN) Setup:

• Connects machines on the same local network.
• Requires enabling direct IP access with RustDesk settings.

Remote Connection Over Internet:

• Involves hosting a RustDesk server on the internet side to traverse firewalls.
• Requires assigning a fixed IP address or domain.

Internet to LAN Connection:

• Needs setting up a local RustDesk server and configuring firewall rules for port forwarding.

RustDesk Demo

Windows Setup:

1. Install RustDesk via winget.
2. Configure security settings for direct LAN access.
3. Set up a permanent password for security.

Linux Setup:

1. Install using dpkg for Debian packages.
2. Adjust settings like other platforms.
3. Handle Wayland login issues by configuring /etc/gdm3/custom.conf.

MacOS Setup:

1. Install RustDesk like any Mac application.
2. Configure necessary permissions and settings.

Conclusion

• Benefits: RustDesk provides a versatile, cost-effective, and secure method for remote desktop access.
• Call to Action: Viewers are encouraged to share their thoughts and experiences with RustDesk in the comments.