Remote access to a Linux desktop environment offers numerous benefits, particularly in terms of server management and providing support to end-users. X2Go is a powerful open-source solution that enables remote work on a Linux desktop environment over a network. This article focuses on configuring and managing a remote desktop environment using X2Go server on the CentOS 7 operating system.

Installing the X2Go Server

1. Adding the X2Go Repository

First, it's necessary to add the X2Go repository to your CentOS 7 system. Open a terminal and execute the following commands:

sudo rpm --import http://packages.x2go.org/epel/RPM-GPG-KEY-x2go
sudo yum install epel-release -y
sudo yum update -y
sudo yum install x2goserver x2goserver-xsession -y

These commands first import the GPG key for the X2Go repository, then install and update the EPEL repository (Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux), which is needed for some packages, and finally install the X2Go server and necessary components to run the desktop environment.

2. Configuring the Firewall

It's important to ensure the firewall allows connections to the X2Go server. The default port used by X2Go is 22 (SSH). To open this port, use the following command:

sudo firewall-cmd --zone=public --add-port=22/tcp --permanent
sudo firewall-cmd --reload

Managing and Using X2Go

1. Connecting to the X2Go Server

To connect to the X2Go server, you need to install the X2Go client on your local system. The X2Go client is available for various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. After installation, open the X2Go client and configure a new connection to your server:

• Host: The IP address or domain name of your CentOS 7 server.
• Login: The username for login.
• SSH Port: The default is 22.
• Session Type: Select the type of desktop environment installed on your server (e.g., XFCE, Mate, etc.).

After completing the configuration, click “OK” and then connect by pressing the “Connect” button.

2. Administration and Maintenance

Managing the X2Go server involves regular system updates and monitoring service status. To ensure the security and stability of the system, it is recommended to regularly run:

sudo yum update -y

This command updates all installed packages to their latest versions. Additionally, monitoring the X2Go server logs for potential issues is advisable. You can find logs in /var/log/.

 

The X2Go server on CentOS 7 offers an efficient and secure way to access and manage a remote desktop environment. Thanks to its easy configuration and broad support for desktop environments, X2Go can be an ideal solution for remote administration and collaboration. With regular maintenance and updates, you will ensure that your system remains secure and reliable.