RDP from Linux to Windows: A Comprehensive Guide

Learn how to RDP from Linux to Windows with this comprehensive guide. Discover various methods, including Remmina and xfreerdp, and get step-by-step instructions for seamless cross-platform connectivity. Whether you're a developer or system administrator, enhance your workflow today!

Updated: 15 Mar, 24 by Amelia S 9 Min

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In the realm of seamless cross-platform interactions, the ability to remotely connect to a Windows machine from a Linux environment has become a pivotal need. Whether you're a developer, system administrator, or just someone with diverse computing needs, the ability to RDP from Linux to Windows can greatly enhance your workflow. This article will delve into the intricacies of achieving this seemingly intricate task, breaking it down into simple steps and providing you with a clear roadmap. But before that, read the post on How to Connect to RDP from Windows?, So you can have a better understanding of Windows RDP from linux. Now, let's embark on this journey of cross-platform connectivity!

Before we dive into the technicalities, let's address the fundamental question: Can you RDP from Linux to Windows? The answer is a resounding yes! 

  • While the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) is a proprietary protocol developed by Microsoft, the open-source community has developed robust solutions 
  • that allow Linux users to establish an RDP connection with Windows-based computers.
  • Absolutely, RDP can work seamlessly on Linux, thanks to the advent of various software solutions that bridge the gap between these two distinct operating systems. 
  • Linux users can leverage tools like "Remmina," which serves as a potent RDP client. 
  • With the Linux environment becoming increasingly user-friendly, even those with minimal technical prowess can set up RDP connections effortlessly.

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Let's get our hands dirty and explore the step-by-step process of establishing an RDP connection from a Linux machine to a Windows system.

  • Step 1: Install an RDP Client

Begin by installing an RDP client on your Linux system. As mentioned earlier, "Remmina" is a popular choice. Install it using your distribution's package manager.


How to RDP from Linux to Windows?

  • Step 2: Launch the RDP Client

Once installed, launch the RDP client. You'll be greeted with a user-friendly interface that allows you to configure your remote connections.

  • Step 3: Add a New Connection

Click on the "+" button to add a new connection. Provide a connection name for your reference.

How to RDP from Linux to Windows?

  • Step 4: Configure Connection Settings

Enter the IP address or hostname of the Windows machine you intend to connect to. Choose the appropriate protocol as "RDP." Adjust other settings like screen resolution according to your preferences.

How to RDP from Linux to Windows?

  • Step 5: Input Credentials

Enter the username and password of your Windows account to establish the connection securely.

How to RDP from Linux to Windows?

  • Step 6: Save and Connect

Save the connection settings and initiate the connection. Voila! You're now remotely connected to your Windows machine from your Linux environment.

How to RDP from Linux to Windows?

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For those who revel in the command line interface, fear not, as you can also initiate an RDP connection using the command line. Here's how:

  1. Step 1: Install "xfreerdp"

Ensure you have the "xfreerdp" package installed on your Linux system. If not, install it using your package manager.

  • Step 2: Run the Command

Open your terminal and use the following command to establish the RDP connection:

```

xfreerdp /u:<username> /p:<password> /v:<IP_address_or_hostname>

```

Replace `<username>`, `<password>`, and `<IP_address_or_hostname>` with your Windows account details and the target machine's address.

The ability to connect to Windows RDP from Linux can significantly enhance your productivity. Whether it's for accessing Windows-exclusive software or managing a remote Windows server, here's a simple guide:

  • Step 1: Choose Your RDP Client

Select an RDP client that suits your preferences. The aforementioned "Remmina" is an excellent choice for its intuitive interface.

  • Step 2: Configure Connection

Launch the RDP client and create a new connection. Enter the Windows machine's IP address or hostname, choose "RDP" as the protocol, and set other options as needed.

  • Step 3: Provide Credentials

Enter your Windows username and password to establish a secure connection.

  • Step 4: Connect

Save the connection settings and initiate the connection. You'll now be seamlessly connected to your Windows machine, all from your Linux environment.

When it comes to RDP'ing from Linux to Windows, flexibility reigns supreme. Various methods and clients cater to different user preferences and technical requirements. Let's explore these diverse avenues and briefly outline the steps to utilize each one:

  • Remmina: The User-Friendly RDP Client

Method: Remmina is a graphical RDP client that provides an intuitive interface for connecting Linux to Windows.

Steps to Use:

  1. Install Remmina: Using your Linux distribution's package manager, install Remmina on your system.
  2. Launch Remmina: Open the Remmina application, and you'll be greeted with a user-friendly interface.
  3. Add a Connection: Click the "+" button to add a new connection.
  4. Configure Connection Settings: Enter the Windows machine's IP address or hostname. Choose "RDP" as the protocol. Adjust screen resolution and other settings.
  5. Provide Credentials: Input your Windows username and password.
  6. Save and Connect: Save the connection settings and click "Connect" to establish the RDP connection.
  • xfreerdp: The Command Line Approach

Method: For command line enthusiasts, xfreerdp offers a powerful way to initiate RDP connections from Linux to Windows.

Steps to Use:

  1. Install xfreerdp: Ensure you have the "xfreerdp" package installed using your package manager.
  2. Run the Command: Open your terminal and execute the following command:

```

xfreerdp /u:<username> /p:<password> /v:<IP_address_or_hostname>

```

Replace placeholders with your Windows account details and target machine's address.

  • Vinagre: The Versatile RDP Client

Method: Vinagre is another option that supports RDP connections and offers additional functionalities.

Steps to Use:

  1. Install Vinagre: Install Vinagre via your package manager.
  2. Open Vinagre: Launch the Vinagre application.
  3. Create a Connection: Click on the "+" button to create a new connection.
  4. Configure Connection Settings: Enter Windows machine details, select "RDP" as the protocol, and adjust other settings.
  5. Input Credentials: Provide your Windows login credentials.
  6. Save and Connect: Save the settings and initiate the connection.
  • RDesktop: The Old-School Choice

Method: RDesktop is a command-line RDP client with a simple interface.

Steps to Use:

  1. Install RDesktop: Install the "rdesktop" package on your Linux system.
  2. Run the Command: In the terminal, execute:

```

rdesktop -u <username> -p <password> <IP_address_or_hostname>

```

Replace placeholders with your Windows account and machine details.

  • FreeRDP: The Modern Command Line Tool

Method: FreeRDP is an advanced command line RDP client with enhanced features.

Steps to Use:

  1. Install FreeRDP: Install the "freerdp2-x11" package via your package manager.
  2. Execute the Command: Run the following in the terminal:

```

xfreerdp /u:<username> /p:<password> /v:<IP_address_or_hostname>

```

Replace placeholders with your Windows account and target machine's details

  • RDP'ing from Linux to Windows 10 follows a similar path as connecting to other Windows versions. 
  • The steps outlined above remain consistent, ensuring that the bridge between the two platforms remains robust.
  • Absolutely, the cross-platform synergy isn't a one-way street. 
  • You can also establish an RDP connection from a Windows machine to a Linux system. 
  • To achieve this, you'll need an RDP server installed on the Linux side, such as "xrdp." 
  • Once configured, you can use your Windows Remote Desktop client to connect to the Linux machine, mirroring the steps outlined earlier.
  • You can also connect to Windows Server on Android Device via RDP.

In conclusion, the capability to RDP from Linux to Windows brings forth a realm of possibilities, erasing the boundaries between these two distinct operating systems. If you are looking for RDP services, MonoVM is here to help you. Click here and Buy RDP. With the availability of user-friendly tools and command line options, this process is no longer an enigma reserved for tech wizards. So go ahead, embrace the seamless connectivity, and unlock a world of productivity at your fingertips!

   Yes, you can use RDP to establish a connection from a Linux machine to a Windows computer, allowing remote access.

   The default RDP client on Linux is called "Remmina," which provides a user-friendly interface for connecting to Windows machines.

   Yes, apart from Remmina, you can also use other RDP clients like "FreeRDP" and "Vinagre" to connect from Linux to Windows.

   RDP is available on most Windows versions, including Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 10, and Windows Server editions.

   No, Windows machines come with RDP server functionality built-in, so you don't need to install any additional software.

   You can find the IP address of the Windows machine by using the "ipconfig" command in the Windows Command Prompt.

   Yes, you can connect using the hostname if your network's DNS is set up to resolve the hostname to the correct IP address.

   You'll need the username and password of a valid user account on the Windows machine to establish an RDP connection.

   Open Remmina, click "New," select "RDP" as the protocol, enter the Windows machine's IP address or hostname, and provide the credentials.

   Yes, you can share local resources by configuring options in the RDP client settings while setting up the connection.

   It's important to ensure that your RDP connection is encrypted using SSL (TLS) to protect your data during transmission.

   RDP uses port 3389 by default for connections. Ensure that this port is open in your firewall settings.

   Yes, you can adjust display resolution, color depth, and other settings within the RDP client to suit your preferences.

   Yes, you can use the "xfreerdp" command to initiate RDP connections from the terminal.

   If you face problems, you can explore alternative remote access methods like using Virtual Network Computing (VNC) or SSH for secure access.