Remmina RDP: Complete Guide to Remote Desktop on Linux

Remmina is a powerful open-source remote desktop client for Linux that supports RDP, SSH, VNC, SPICE, and more. This guide covers Remmina's key features, installation, configuration, and step-by-step instructions for connecting to a Windows RDP Server from Linux.

What is Remmina Remote Desktop Client

Remmina is an open-source remote desktop client designed primarily for Linux users. It supports multiple remote connection protocols, including RDP, SSH, VNC, SPICE, and X2Go, allowing users to connect to and manage remote computers or servers from a Linux device.

One of the most common uses of Remmina is connecting to Windows remote desktop servers through RDP. Compared with command-line tools, Remmina remote desktop client provides an intuitive graphical interface. For users who frequently access Windows Server from Linux systems such as Ubuntu, Remmina is a simple, flexible, and feature-rich remote desktop tool.

Key Features of Remmina RDP Client

Powerful features for simple and flexible Remmina connect.

Cross-OS Compatibility

Remmina RDP client is primarily designed for Linux and supports multiple remote desktop protocols, allowing Linux users to connect to Windows RDP and other remote systems.

Multiple Protocols

Remmina remote desktop client supports multiple protocols, including RDP, VNC, SSH, and SPICE, allowing users to connect to different systems and services.

User-Friendly Interface

Remmina RDP client offers an intuitive interface that makes configuring and managing remote desktop connections simple for both beginners and experienced users.

Connection Management

Remmina RDP client lets users save and manage connection profiles, making it easy to access frequently used remote desktops.

Customization Options

Remmina remote desktop client allows users to customize settings such as display, resolution, and audio to create a remote desktop experience that suits their needs.

File Transfer Capabilities

Remmina RDP client supports file transfers between the local device and remote desktop, making it easier to share documents, files, and other data during remote sessions.

Security Measures

Remmina RDP client uses encryption and authentication methods to help protect data during remote desktop sessions and maintain secure connections between local and remote systems.

Plugin Architecture

Remmina features a modular plugin architecture that allows users to extend its functionality. Plugins can add support for additional features and provide more flexibility for different remote access needs.

How to Connect to Windows RDP Server with Remmina

A simple guide to download, set up, and connect to Windows RDP with Remmina Linux

Prerequisites

Before you begin, make sure you have a Remmina Windows Server and that it is running properly and accepting remote connections. You will also need the following login information:

  • Server IP address or hostname
  • RDP port
  • Username
  • Password
  • Domain (optional): Only required for domain environments

If you don't have a Remmina Windows Server yet, try RDP Servers with a free trial.

1

Install Remmina Linux Version

First, open the Ubuntu Terminal and update the package list:

sudo apt update

Then install the Remmina RDP client:

sudo apt install remmina remmina-plugin-rdp -y

Once the Remmina download is complete, verify that Remmina was installed successfully:

remmina --version

If the terminal displays the Remmina version number, the installation was successful.

2

Open Remmina RDP

Once the installation is complete, launch the Remmina RDP client with:

remmina

You can also search for Remmina in the Ubuntu application menu and open it.

In the Remmina main interface, click the + button in the top-left corner to create a new connection.

3

Configure the Remmina RDP Connection

In Remmina, select RDP - Remote Desktop Protocol and enter the Windows server's IP address or hostname in the Server field.

Then enter your Windows username and password. If the server uses a domain account, enter the username in the following format:

DOMAIN\username

Once the configuration is complete, click Connect to establish the connection. If a server certificate prompt appears during the first connection, verify the server information and continue. After connecting successfully, you can save the connection profile for quick access to the same Windows RDP server in the future.

4

Troubleshoot Remmina RDP Connection Issues

If Remmina cannot connect to the Windows RDP Server, first check whether the RDP port is accessible:

nc -zv SERVER_IP 3389

You can also test the basic network connection with:

ping SERVER_IP
If the connection fails:
  • Verify Remote Desktop is enabled on the Windows Server
  • Check if RDP service is running on port 3389
  • Ensure firewall allows RDP traffic
  • Confirm correct IP address and credentials

Need a Remmina Windows RDP Server?

Remmina makes it easy to connect to a Windows RDP Server from Linux. If you need a Windows Server to get started, RDP Servers offers reliable Windows RDP hosting with a free trial, so you can test the connection and performance before choosing a plan.