In this guide, we'll set up Chrome Remote Desktop with LXDE so you can access your VPS from anywhere using https://remotedesktop.google.com.

Why LXDE?

LXDE is ideal for VPS servers because it is:

• Lightweight
• Fast
• Low RAM usage
• Stable on headless servers

Perfect for cloud machines with 1-2GB RAM.

Step 1 - Install LXDE (if not already installed)

sudo apt update
sudo apt install lxde-core lxterminal lxsession dbus-x11 -y

This installs a lightweight graphical desktop environment.

Step 2 - Install Chrome Remote Desktop

Download the official package:

wget https://dl.google.com/linux/direct/chrome-remote-desktop_current_amd64.deb

Install it:

sudo apt install ./chrome-remote-desktop_current_amd64.deb -y

Step 3 - Configure Chrome Remote Desktop to Use LXDE

Chrome Remote Desktop needs to know which desktop session to start.

Create the session file:

echo "exec startlxde" > ~/.chrome-remote-desktop-session

Step 4 - Add Your User to the Chrome Remote Desktop Group

sudo usermod -aG chrome-remote-desktop $USER

Step 5 - Link Your VPS to Your Google Account

Open the Chrome Remote Desktop setup page:

https://remotedesktop.google.com/headless

After signing in, you will receive a command similar to this:

DISPLAY= /opt/google/chrome-remote-desktop/start-host \
--code="XXXX" \
--redirect-url="https://remotedesktop.google.com/_/oauthredirect" \
--name=$(hostname)

Run that command on your VPS.

Then set a PIN when prompted.

Step 6 - Restart the Chrome Remote Desktop Service

sudo systemctl restart chrome-remote-desktop@$USER

Step 7 - Connect from Your Browser

Open:

https://remotedesktop.google.com/access

You should now see your VPS machine listed.

Click it, enter your PIN, and you will get full desktop access in your browser.

Tips for Better Performance

• Use LXDE or XFCE instead of GNOME • VPS should have at least 2GB RAM • Disable heavy visual effects

When Should You Use This?

Chrome Remote Desktop is useful when you want to:

• Manage a remote desktop from anywhere
• Use GUI applications on your VPS
• Access development tools visually
• Control your server without SSH

Alternative Browser Desktop Solutions

If you prefer no Google account dependency, consider:

• NoVNC
• KasmVNC
• RustDesk
• X2Go

These tools can also provide browser-based desktop access.