Optimizing RDP Performance on Linux: My Best Settings with xfreerdp

XfreeRDP3

If you’re like me and rely heavily on Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) to connect to Windows servers from a Linux environment, you know how crucial performance can be. After experimenting with numerous settings, I’ve found a configuration that delivers the best performance using xfreerdp. Here’s a breakdown of the settings that worked wonders for me.

Why xfreerdp?

xfreerdp is an open-source RDP client that offers a plethora of customization options, making it a powerful tool for Linux users needing to connect to Windows servers. Its flexibility allows for fine-tuning, which is essential for optimizing performance.

My Go-To Command

Here is the xfreerdp command that gave me the best results:

xfreerdp3 /u:[email protected] /p:"P@ASSWRRRDDD" /v:10.10.10.10 /dynamic-resolution /compression /network:auto /gfx:AVC420:on +clipboard -themes

Let’s break down what each part of this command does:

  • /u:[email protected]: Specifies the username to use for the connection.
  • /p:”P@ASSWRRRDDD”: Specifies the password. Ensure this is securely stored and managed.
  • /v:10.10.10.10: The IP address of the Windows server.
  • /dynamic-resolution: Adjusts the screen resolution dynamically to match the size of the xfreerdp window.
  • /compression: Enables compression to reduce the amount of data transferred, improving performance over slower connections.
  • /network:auto: Automatically adjusts settings based on network conditions for optimal performance.
  • /gfx:AVC420:on: Uses the AVC420 codec for efficient video compression, providing a good balance between quality and performance.
  • +clipboard: Enables clipboard sharing between the local and remote systems.
  • -themes: Disables desktop themes on the remote server to reduce the amount of graphical processing required.

Additional Tips for Improved Performance

To enhance your Remote Desktop (RDP) experience from Linux, adjusting the performance settings on the Windows server can make a big difference. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Open System Properties:
  • Right-click on “This PC” or “Computer” and select “Properties”.
  • Click on “Advanced system settings”.
  1. Adjust Performance Options:
  • In the System Properties window, under the “Advanced” tab, click “Settings” in the Performance section.
  • In the Performance Options window, select “Custom” and adjust the settings as shown in the screenshot below.
  1. Recommended Settings:
  • Uncheck unnecessary visual effects like animations, shadows, and Peek.
  • Check only essential items for a smoother experience.

Refer to the screenshot for detailed settings adjustments.

By tweaking these settings, you can significantly improve the responsiveness of your RDP sessions.

Performance Options

Conclusion

Finding the right settings for xfreerdp can be a game-changer for your remote desktop experience on Linux. The command and tips I’ve shared should help you achieve a smoother and more responsive connection to your Windows servers. Don’t hesitate to tweak these settings further based on your specific network conditions and requirements.

Happy remoting!


Author: Thomas Faddegon

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