Setting Up a Linux Terminal Server

Sep 1, 2024

Transitioning to Linux Terminal Server

Introduction

  • Discarding Windows and MacBooks for Linux
  • Goal: All employees to use one powerful Linux machine

The Problem with Current Setup

  • Current render machine runs Windows 11
  • Issues: Only one user can access at a time
  • Example users affected:
    • Isaac: Editing on the machine
    • Alex: Needs to record video
    • Florida Nick: Trying to render edits remotely
    • Mike: 3D modeling in Blender

Solution: Terminal Services

  • Definition: Allow multiple users to share one powerful computer through unique sessions
  • Current Dependency: Each user can only log into one PC at a time
  • Benefits of Linux Terminal Services over Windows:
    • Cost-effective (free software)
    • No need for expensive licenses

Setting Up Linux Terminal Server

Requirements

  • Server must be x86 architecture (no ARM devices)
  • Software: Thin Link must be installed
  • Hardware considerations:
    • RAM: 100-200 MB per user for basic tasks
    • CPU: 150-300 MHz per user for a full desktop environment
  • Thin clients can be low-powered devices (e.g., Raspberry Pi)

Installation Steps

  1. Install Thin Link on Server:
    • Download from syno.com
    • Use terminal to run installation script
    • Choose master server configuration
    • Set up web administration password
  2. Create User Accounts:
    • Use add user command in Linux
    • Option to use LDAP for centralized management
  3. Client Setup:
    • Download Thin Link for user OS (Windows, Mac, Linux)
    • Connect using server IP and user credentials

Virtual GL Installation

  • Purpose: To enable hardware acceleration for applications on the server
  • Installation Process:
    1. Download from GitHub
    2. Install using terminal as root
    3. Configure Virtual GL server
    4. Verify GPU usage for applications

Demonstration

  • Demonstrated the power of remote access using a Raspberry Pi to run Blender
  • Showcased how multiple users can operate simultaneously on the server

Administration and Monitoring

  • Admin tools available to monitor user sessions, system health, and application access
  • Option to shadow user sessions for support and oversight

Conclusion

  • Successful setup of Linux terminal server allows efficient use of powerful resources
  • Encouraged collaboration among team members using shared resources
  • Final showcase of Mike's 3D model created during the demonstration.