VNC-Session and Real Desktop

VNC-Session and Real Desktop: Application Started in VNC-Session Opens on Real Machine and Not on VNC-Session

Abstract: Learn how to troubleshoot the issue of applications started in a VNC-Session opening on the real machine instead of the VNC-Session. This article provides step-by-step instructions for resolving the problem in Linux, specifically Ubuntu, using GNOME or IceWM.

Created: 2023-09-19 by

VNC-Session and Real Desktop: Application Started in VNC-Session Opens on Real Machine and Not on VNC-Session

If you are using VNC (Virtual Network Computing) to remotely access your computer, you may encounter a situation where applications opened within the VNC session are actually launched on your physical machine instead of the VNC session itself. This can be confusing and frustrating, but there are a few possible reasons and solutions for this issue.

Understanding VNC and Remote Desktop

VNC is a technology that allows you to access and control a computer remotely over a network. It enables you to view the desktop of the remote computer and interact with it as if you were sitting in front of it. Remote Desktop, on the other hand, is a feature in many operating systems that allows you to connect to a remote computer and access its desktop.

When you establish a VNC connection, you are essentially creating a virtual session that runs alongside your physical desktop. This means that you can have multiple sessions running simultaneously, each with its own set of applications and processes.

The Problem: Applications Opening on the Real Machine

If you notice that applications you open within your VNC session are appearing on your physical machine instead, it is likely due to a configuration issue or misunderstanding of how VNC works.

Here are a few possible reasons for this problem:

  1. Default Display Settings: By default, VNC may be configured to use the same display as your physical machine. This means that any applications you open will automatically appear on your real desktop.
  2. Incorrect VNC Server Configuration: The VNC server running on your machine may not be properly configured to create a separate VNC session. This can cause applications to open on the real machine instead of within the VNC session.
  3. Conflicting Display Settings: If you have multiple displays connected to your computer, there may be conflicts between the display settings of your physical machine and the VNC session. This can result in applications appearing on the wrong screen.

Possible Solutions

To resolve the issue of applications opening on the real machine instead of the VNC session, you can try the following solutions:

  1. Change VNC Display Settings: Access the VNC server configuration settings and change the display settings to use a separate display for the VNC session. This will ensure that applications opened within the VNC session appear only in that session and not on your physical machine.
  2. Use a Different VNC Server: If the current VNC server you are using does not provide the option to configure separate displays, consider trying a different VNC server software that supports this feature. There are several VNC server options available, each with its own set of configuration settings.
  3. Adjust Display Settings: If you have multiple displays connected to your computer, make sure that the display settings for your physical machine and the VNC session are properly configured. This may involve adjusting the screen resolution, display order, or primary display settings to ensure that applications open in the correct location.

Conclusion

When using VNC to access your computer remotely, it can be frustrating when applications opened within the VNC session appear on your physical machine instead. However, by understanding the possible reasons for this issue and implementing the suggested solutions, you can ensure that applications open in the correct location.

References
Source Link
RealVNC https://www.realvnc.com/
TigerVNC https://tigervnc.org/
UltraVNC https://www.uvnc.com/

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