ThinLinc — Linux Terminal Server for Centralized Desktops
What it is
ThinLinc is a remote desktop system from Cendio that focuses on Linux servers. It’s not as universal as TeamViewer or AnyDesk — its purpose is different. Think of it as Citrix, but for Linux: a way to publish desktops and apps from centralized servers to users anywhere. The tool is especially common in universities, research labs, and companies that rely heavily on Linux infrastructure.
How it works
The backend runs on Linux. Users connect through the ThinLinc client, which exists for Windows, macOS, Linux and thin terminals. Under the hood, sessions are handled with VNC, but everything is wrapped in SSH tunnels for encryption. Admins can publish full desktops or just a single application. Larger environments can add load balancing so sessions are spread across several servers. Authentication hooks into AD, LDAP or Kerberos, and smart cards are supported for stricter setups.
Technical profile
| Area | Details |
| Purpose | Centralized Linux desktop and app publishing |
| Platforms | Server: Linux; Clients: Windows, macOS, Linux, thin clients |
| Protocols | VNC over SSH |
| Features | Full desktops, app publishing, printing, file redirection, load balancing |
| Authentication | AD/LDAP, Kerberos, smart cards, MFA |
| Security | SSH encryption, audit logging |
| Deployment | Install on Linux server, distribute ThinLinc client |
| Licensing | Commercial, subscription; demo licenses available |
Why admins use it
It fills a gap: proper enterprise remote access for Linux desktops. Scaling is built-in — farms can handle hundreds or thousands of users. Integration with identity systems avoids managing separate credentials. Works well in academic settings where Linux is the default lab OS. End users don’t need to care — they just log in via the ThinLinc client.
Usage scenarios
– Universities letting students run lab desktops remotely from laptops at home.
– Research centers hosting heavy apps (CAD, MATLAB, data analysis) on Linux servers and delivering them remotely.
– Enterprises where Linux apps need to be accessible from Windows or macOS clients.
– Remote staff who need the same Linux environment regardless of device.
Security notes
Every session is tunneled over SSH, so traffic is encrypted by default. For stricter compliance, admins can enforce Kerberos or smart card logins. Built-in audit logging helps with regulations. As always, the Linux host has to be patched and monitored — ThinLinc doesn’t remove that responsibility.
Limitations
Only runs on Linux servers — no Windows hosting option. Commercial license needed; not free for production. Performance is good, but not always as snappy as NX or DeskRT over weak links. Requires Linux know-how to set up and maintain.
Comparison snapshot
| Tool | Strengths | Best fit |
| ThinLinc | Linux-focused, scalable | Universities, Linux-heavy enterprises |
| Citrix Apps | Mature Windows app delivery | Large Windows-first environments |
| Microsoft RDS | Windows-native | Orgs already using Windows servers |
| NoMachine | NX protocol, multimedia | Mixed environments with graphics apps |
| X2Go | Open-source Linux remote desktop | Small teams, free Linux setups |
Minimal checklist
– Prepare a Linux server and install ThinLinc.
– Configure AD/LDAP or Kerberos if used.
– Hand out ThinLinc clients to users.
– Secure connections with SSH and valid certificates.
– Enable logging and MFA where available.
– Keep the server patched and monitored.