Ubuntu GUI Install

American Cloud VMs are virtualized computing resources, allowing users to run virtual instances of operating systems and applications in the cloud. GUI integration can make it easier for users to interact with these VMs, especially for tasks that require visual feedback or interactions, such as managing the VM's configurations, accessing file systems, or installing software with graphical installers.

Update & Ugrade system

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

American Cloud utilize a specific cloud.cfg file so customers can manage their VM’s via their CMP dashboard. While running the update && upgrade, the system will ask to use the current configured cloud.cfg or the standard Ubuntu. Choose ’N’ so management through the CMP is still possible.

Install xrdp

xrdp is a software tool that allows for remote desktop protocol (RDP) connections to Linux-based operating systems such as Ubuntu. It enables remote access to Ubuntu through a graphical user interface (GUI) from another device over a network connection.

To establish a remote connection to the Ubuntu OS, xrdp will be utilized. Install xrdp on the Virtual Machine to facilitate this connection using the below commands.

sudo apt-get install xrdp

Newly installed packages and space will be identified by the system. Select 'y' and press enter when promted to continue.

0 upgraded, 266 newly installed, 0 to remove and 0 not upgraded.
Need to get 130 MB of archives.
After this operation, 489 MB of additional disk space will be used.
Do you want to continue? [Y/n] y

enable systemctl to start the process

sudo systemctl enable xrdp

Firewall Settings

In the American cloud CMP create a new firewall rule allowing port 3389.

For a detailed firewall explanation, Click Here.
- If utilizing UFW on linux ensure port 3389 is open for communication with the following command:
```
sudo ufw allow 3389/tcp
```

Install Ubuntu Desktop

Ubuntu Desktop is a popular Linux-based operating system designed for desktop and laptop computers. It provides a user-friendly interface with a graphical desktop environment, offering a wide range of pre-installed applications for productivity, web browsing, multimedia, and more. Ubuntu Desktop is known for its stability, security, and open-source nature, making it a popular choice for individuals, businesses, and educational institutions seeking a free and powerful operating system.

The below command will install Ubuntu Desktop. This will take several minutes to finish.

sudo apt-get install ubuntu-desktop

Reboot the Virtual Machine to ensure everything gets saved properly.

sudo reboot

Mac: Connect to GUI On Mac

Note
For this tutorial Microsoft Remote Desktop will be used. In the app store search and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop. There are several remote desktop applications that may work as well.

Download Microsoft Remote Desktop

In the app serch field type 'Microsoft Remote Desktop' press enter. The first application will be Microsoft Remote Desktop, select 'GET'. After a few seconds the application will be downloaded and installed on the system.

Note
The picture shows open b/c the application has already been installed on this machine.

Using Microsoft Remote Desktop

Microsoft Remote Desktop is a software application that allows users to remotely access and control Windows-based computers or servers from another device, such as a computer, tablet, or mobile device. It uses the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to establish a secure connection between the local device and the remote Windows-based computer, enabling users to interact with the remote desktop as if they were physically present at that computer. Microsoft Remote Desktop is widely used for remote work, technical support, and server administration, among other purposes.

Follow the steps below to connect to Ubuntu Desktop previously installed
1. Select 'Launchpad' from the tool bar.
2. Select 'Microsoft Remote Desktop'
Input Connection Information
The application will launch with a single 'Add PC' switch. Select 'Add PC' or if desired the toolbar to the top select '+' icon.

A new window will appear requesting PC information. In the PC name field input the Public IP of the virtual machine Ubuntu Desktop is running. Additionally, if desired add and save the user account information. Once complete select add.

For help finding the Public IP within the AC CMP, Click Here.

Connect To The Desktop

In the main application window the the new machine will be added.

Now select the three dot toggle on the lower right of the machine and select 'Connect'.

A warning window will populate. Select 'Connect'

In the popup provide the account credentials.

The new connection has been made.

Windows: Connect to GUI on Windows

In windows this tutorial will utilize the built-in 'Remote Desktop Connection' software.

Open Remote Desktop Connection
In the windows tool bar search field type 'Remote desktop connection'