What is X2Go?
X2Go is an open-source remote desktop software that allows users to access and control a remote computer over a network. It provides a secure and reliable way to access remote systems, making it an ideal solution for IT teams, administrators, and users who need to access remote systems regularly.
Main Features
X2Go offers a range of features that make it a popular choice for remote desktop access, including:
- Secure encryption and authentication
- Session logging and auditing
- Support for multiple operating systems, including Windows, Linux, and macOS
- Scalability and high-performance capabilities
Technical Specifications
Ports Used by X2Go
X2Go uses the following ports to establish connections:
| Port | Protocol | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 22 | TCP | SSH port for secure connections |
| 8080 | TCP | HTTP port for web-based access |
System Requirements
X2Go can run on a variety of systems, including:
- Windows XP and later
- Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora
- macOS 10.6 and later
Installation Guide
Step 1: Download X2Go
Download the X2Go client and server software from the official website.
Step 2: Install X2Go Server
Install the X2Go server software on the remote computer you want to access.
Step 3: Install X2Go Client
Install the X2Go client software on the local computer you want to use to access the remote computer.
Hardening Checklist for Admins and IT Teams
Secure Configuration
Ensure that X2Go is configured to use secure encryption and authentication methods.
Regular Updates
Regularly update X2Go software to ensure you have the latest security patches and features.
Access Control
Implement strict access controls, including user authentication and authorization, to ensure only authorized users can access remote systems.
X2Go vs Open Source Options
Comparison with Other Options
X2Go is often compared to other open-source remote desktop software, including:
- VNC (Virtual Network Computing)
- RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol)
- SPICE (Simple Protocol for Independent Computing Environments)
Advantages of X2Go
X2Go offers several advantages over other open-source options, including:
- Secure encryption and authentication
- Session logging and auditing
- Support for multiple operating systems
Backup and Rollback Best Practices
Regular Backups
Regularly backup X2Go configuration files and session logs to ensure you can recover in case of a disaster.
Rollback Procedures
Establish rollback procedures to quickly recover from any issues or errors that may occur during upgrades or configuration changes.
Testing and Validation
Test and validate X2Go backups and rollback procedures to ensure they are working correctly.