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Open Source Remote Desktop with RustDesk - Windows, macOS, Linux

BY zchl5
July 7, 2025
Public
Private
9838 views

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.
    Open Source Remote Desktop with RustDesk - Windows, macOS, Linux