Remote desktop

Contents

Introduction

A remote desktop allows one to perform remote computing using graphical applications which run on the server, but are viewed from a client. Although the precise features differ per implementation the common advantages include

  • Saving CPU/RAM/network resources on client
  • Roaming
    • 24/7 availability
    • Session management, such as detaching/(re)attaching or 'shadowing' of session
    • Client agnostic, allowing client to be turned off
  • Remote assistance
  • Running non-native software

Remote desktop is used by in many market segments, from home user to enterprise.

In our use-case the client will be Nokia N900 (may also work with previous hardware/software). Currently, on Maemo, remote desktop software requires using a stylus.

The available options for Nokia N900/Maemo 5 are as follow

VNC

VNC (Virtual Private Networking) is a cross-platform protocol traditionally used for remote desktop over LANs and other low-latency, high-bandwidth networks. In order to use it over consumer-grade broadband or GPRS workarounds are necessary.

RDP

Fixme xrdp?

NX

Fixme qtnx?

X11

Fixme SSH X11 forwarding?