How to use windows desktop from a linux machine in a local network?

Question

I have a computer running Windows 7 with no monitor or keyboard, connected to a local network. I have a few laptops running linux, also connected to the local network. I want to feel like I'm sitting in front of the windows, but using one of the linux laptops.

How to do that? Maybe I can use some linux software to connect to remote desktop? Or I have to install client/server software on both machines? As this is a local network, I expect excellent experience with no lag.

Thank you!

Answer 1

If its a Win7 Ultimate/Professional/Enterpreise, you should be able to establish a remote desktop connection. In linux use the terminal server client [1] with the ip of the win box. If its a Win 7 Home version (which offers no remote connection by default) try a VNC-Server [2] on the Win7 machine. Ensure that the vnc server is started a service.

[1] if not installed, try sudo apt-get install tsc [2] http://www.tightvnc.com/

Answer 2

You can access via RDP client like grdesktop or similar, given that the windows machine enabled for remote access.Another solution is to use vnc(tightvnc).

Answer 3

If you want to keep it simple, you can also use LogMeIn free.

I am currently using Logmein between my Android tablet and headless Windows 7 machine. No problems. 5-10 minutes to setup and no hassles with networking if that's a problem.

Logmein has a beta LogMeIn Hamachi2 for Linux (https://secure.logmein.com/labs/)

I have been using it on my netbook with Ubuntu just fine.