🧠 What Is xfreerdp?

xfreerdp is a free and open-source tool that lets you connect to a Windows computer remotely using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP).

In simple terms:
👉 You can control your Windows PC from your Linux computer using only software — no extra hardware needed.

This is perfect if you:

• Use Linux and Windows together

• Want to share one keyboard, mouse, and monitor

• Want to avoid buying USB switches or extra screens

🔹 What You Need Before Starting

• A Linux computer

• A Windows computer (Windows 10 / 11 Pro recommended)

• Both computers connected to the same local network (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)

• Administrator access on the Windows PC

PART 1 — Set Up Windows for Remote Access

Step 1: Enable Remote Desktop

On your Windows PC:

1. Press Windows Key + I → Open Settings

2. Go to:
   System → Remote Desktop

3. Turn Remote Desktop ON

4. Click Confirm

Step 2: Note Down Your Windows IP Address

1. Press Windows Key + R

2. Type:

    

    

   cmd

    

3. Run:

    

    

   ipconfig

    

4. Look for:

    

    

   IPv4 Address: 192.168.x.x

    

Save this — you’ll need it.

Step 3: Make Sure Your User Has a Password

Remote Desktop won’t work if your Windows account has no password.

If needed:

PART 2 — Install xfreerdp on Linux

Ubuntu / Debian / Kali:

Arch Linux:

Fedora:

PART 3 — Connect to Windows Using xfreerdp

Now the magic happens ✨

Basic Command:

Example:

✔ Replace:

• USERNAME → Windows login name

• PASSWORD → Windows password

• IP_ADDRESS → Windows IP

PART 4 — Improve Experience (Recommended Options)

Full Screen Mode

Auto-fit Screen Resolution

Clipboard Sharing (Copy & Paste)

Best Smooth Experience Command:

PART 5 — Common Problems & Fixes

❌ Connection Failed?

Check:

• Windows firewall allows Remote Desktop

• Both machines are on same network

• Correct IP address

❌ Black Screen?

Try:

❌ Laggy Experience?

Solutions:

• Use Ethernet cable instead of Wi-Fi

• Reduce resolution:

WHY This Setup Is Powerful

This method lets you:

✔ Use one keyboard & mouse for two computers
✔ Use one monitor for both systems
✔ Avoid buying USB switch hardware
✔ Keep your desk clean
✔ Save money

All using free open-source software.

REAL-WORLD USE CASE

Perfect for:

• Linux + Windows dual workflows

• Developers

• Network engineers

• Cybersecurity students

• Designers using Linux + Adobe tools on Windows

• Anyone who wants efficient workstation setups

FINALY

xfreerdp proves that:

Smart thinking beats quick buying.

Instead of buying extra hardware, software solutions often exist — free, powerful, and elegant.