Linux GUI Desktop on Azure

Linux GUI Desktop on Azure is a pre-configured Azure VM image that gives you a full XFCE graphical desktop on Ubuntu Linux in the cloud, accessed remotely over RDP. Launch it, connect with a remote desktop client, and you have a ready-to-use Linux desktop — no manual desktop or RDP configuration required.

It is built for users who need a graphical Linux environment in the cloud — for development, testing, or running desktop applications — without managing the underlying setup.

What's included

  • A full XFCE desktop environment on Ubuntu Linux
  • Remote access over RDP using the Microsoft Windows App (available from the Mac App Store or the Microsoft Store)
  • Regular image updates with the latest security patches

Launch on Azure

  1. Find and subscribe to the Linux GUI Desktop image on the Azure Marketplace.
  2. Launch a virtual machine from the image in a region close to you, choosing an instance size that fits your workload.
  3. Make sure the virtual machine allows inbound RDP (port 3389) traffic so you can connect with a remote desktop client.

Connect to the desktop

Once the virtual machine is running, connect to its public IP address using the Microsoft Windows App:

  • Username: elm
  • Password: the last 12 digits of the VM vmId (shown in the VM's JSON View)

Linux GUI Desktop on Azure: XFCE desktop environment

The XFCE desktop environment.

For a step-by-step walkthrough with screenshots, see Connect to Linux GUI Desktop on Azure.

Support

Questions or need help getting started? Contact support@elmcomputing.io.