Lucid Tips

Ubuntu has a built in Remote Desktop functionality that allows you to connect to your machine from a remote location. This is not enabled by default but can be easily enabled. If the Ubuntu machine is restarted you cannot remote desktop into in because it would be waiting at the login screen. This too can be fixed with the auto login mechanism.

Disclaimer: These steps have worked for me and have been tested on Compaq Evo N610c running Ubuntu 8.04 LTS (Hardy Heron). YMMV. I am not responsible for loss of data or damage to computers.

Enabling Remote Desktop

1. Click System->Preferences->Remote Desktop (see screenshot)
2. Remote Desktop Preferences dialog will open (see screenshot)
3. Select Allow other users to view your desktop. This option enables remote users to view your session. All keyboard, pointer, and clipboard events from the remote user are ignored. At minimum you need to select this option to enable Remote Desktop.
4. Allow other users to control your desktop: This option enables other to access and control your session from a remote location. Select this option if you wish to provide control to users.The remote user can use keyboard, pointer and clipboard.
5. Ask you for confirmation: This option will prompt you for confirmation when they remote users attempt to connect to your session. This can be handy if you actively work on the machine and want to prevent other users from connecting without your knowledge. Do not select this option if you leave the machine unattended and wish to connect remotely.
6. Require the user to enter this password: This option provides an extra level of security and prompts the user for a password. It is recommended to set the password
7. Password: Enter the password that the client who attempts to view or control your session must enter.
8. Click on Advanced tab (see screenshot)
9. Select Lock screen on disconnect. This option will lock the session when the remote user disconnects. It is also recommended to select this option.
10. Click Close

Enabling Auto Login

1. Click System->Administration->Login Window (see screenshot)
2. You will be prompted for your password
3. Login Window Preferences dialog will open
4. Click on Security tab (see screenshot)
5. Enable Automatic Login: Select this option if your machine is setup for single user. The selected user will automatically be logged in without being prompted for password. Select the user from the drop down.
6. Enable Timed Login: Select this option if your machine is setup for multiple users. The login window will appear and if there is no activity the selected user will automatically be logged in. Select the user from drop down and set the pause before login delay.
7. Click Close