How to Enable Screen Sharing on Ubuntu Desktop?

This article provides a straightforward, step-by-step guide on how to enable and configure screen sharing on an Ubuntu desktop. You will learn how to access the built-in sharing settings, configure security options like password protection, and connect from another device using a Remote Desktop client.

Step 1: Open the Ubuntu Settings Menu

To begin, you need to navigate to the core system settings where Ubuntu manages all network and sharing capabilities.

• Click on the system menu (the status icons for Wi-Fi, battery, or volume) located in the top-right corner of your desktop screen.
• Select Settings from the drop-down menu that appears.

Step 2: Navigate to the System Sharing Settings

Ubuntu groups its remote access tools under a centralized sharing panel. Depending on your version of Ubuntu, this may look slightly different.

• In the left sidebar of the Settings window, scroll down and click on System, then select Sharing. (On older Ubuntu versions, Sharing may appear directly in the main sidebar list).
• If the toggle switch at the very top right of the Sharing window is turned off, click it to turn Sharing ON.

Step 3: Configure Remote Desktop and Screen Sharing

Once the master sharing switch is active, you can customize how other devices interact with your desktop.

• Click on the Remote Desktop option within the Sharing menu.
• Toggle the switch for Remote Desktop to the ON position. This allows others to view and control your screen.
• Toggle the switch for Remote Control if you want the remote user to be able to move your mouse and type on your keyboard. If left off, they will only be able to view your screen.

Step 4: Set Up Authentication and Security

Security is crucial when opening your desktop to a network. Ubuntu requires authentication before allowing incoming connections.

• Under the Authentication section, choose Require a Password.
• Ubuntu automatically generates a secure password, but you can delete it and type a custom password of your choice.
• Take note of the Device Name or the Remote Desktop Address (which typically looks like rtsp:// or an IP address) listed in this window. You will need this info to connect.

Step 5: Connect from Another Device

With the Ubuntu desktop properly configured, you can now connect to it from a separate computer, whether it runs Windows, macOS, or another Linux distribution.

• Open a compatible Remote Desktop Client (such as Remmina on Linux, Microsoft Remote Desktop on Windows, or VNC Viewer) on the client machine.
• Enter the IP address or device name of the Ubuntu desktop.
• When prompted, enter the username and the Sharing password you configured in Step 4.