How to Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

Understanding the software’s capabilities is crucial for those aiming to install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy Jellyfish or its older stable release Ubuntu 20.04 Focal Fossa. AnyDesk stands as a premier solution in the realm of remote desktop applications. Its blend of cutting-edge features and user-friendly interface caters to diverse professional needs, from IT specialists overseeing expansive networks to entrepreneurs facilitating remote collaborations.

Distinguishing Features of AnyDesk:

• Optimized Bandwidth Use: AnyDesk’s proprietary DeskRT codec guarantees minimal latency and superior data compression, ensuring smooth operations even with bandwidths as limited as 100 kB/sec.
• High Frame Rates: Delivering up to 60 FPS on local networks and many internet connections, AnyDesk promises a fluid, interruption-free experience.
• Robust Security: By harnessing the power of TLS 1.2 and RSA 2048 asymmetric encryption, AnyDesk places paramount importance on safeguarding user data and ensuring privacy.
• User-Friendly Interface: A straightforward and intuitive layout ensures ease of navigation for users, irrespective of their technical expertise.
• Versatile Platform Support: Beyond Ubuntu, AnyDesk extends its compatibility to platforms like Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Session Recording: A pivotal feature for many, AnyDesk allows users to record sessions, which is invaluable for purposes like training and auditing.

Given its versatility and comprehensive feature set, AnyDesk proves to be an indispensable tool for those requiring remote desktop functionalities. This guide will detail the steps to install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 Jammy Jellyfish or Ubuntu 20.04 Focal Fossa. While focusing on these versions, the installation approach is consistent for other Ubuntu releases still in their support phase.

The installation process will encompass two primary methods. The first leverages the official AnyDesk apt repository, favored by those keen on receiving direct updates from the software creators. The alternative method employs the Flatpak package manager with Flathub, offering a broad software selection and an added layer of system isolation.

Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via APT PPA

Step 1: Update Ubuntu Before AnyDesk Installation

Before diving into the installation process, updating your system with all existing packages is wise. To do this, execute the following commands in your terminal:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install Initial Required Packages

First, make sure you have the necessary dependencies installed on your system. Although you may already have most of these packages, run the following command to confirm their presence and install them if needed:

sudo apt install dirmngr ca-certificates software-properties-common apt-transport-https curl -y

If you encounter issues later, return to this step and execute the command again.

Step 3: Import AnyDesk APT Repository on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

The initial part of this step involves importing the GPG key to validate the integrity of the downloaded packages. Run the following command in your terminal to add it to your keychain:

curl -fsSL https://keys.anydesk.com/repos/DEB-GPG-KEY | gpg --dearmor | sudo tee /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg > /dev/null

Subsequently, proceed to import the AnyDesk repository with the following command:

echo 'deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg] http://deb.anydesk.com/ all main' | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/anydesk.list

Step 4: Update APT List Cache After AnyDesk PPA Import

With the AnyDesk repository now added to your list of sources, it’s time to run another APT update to reflect these changes:

sudo apt update

Step 5: Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

Now, you’re all set to install AnyDesk! Run the following command:

sudo apt install anydesk

Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak and Flathub

The Flatpak package manager offers a different way to install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04. Similarly to Snap, Flatpak serves as a universal package system for deploying, distributing, and managing software on Linux. People highly regard its ability to sandbox applications, which enhances system security and privacy. Moreover, it lets developers build a single application for multiple Linux distributions.

Step 1: Enable Flathub on Ubuntu For AnyDesk

To install AnyDesk using Flatpak, the first task is to enable the Flathub repository. Flathub is the de facto hub for Flatpak applications, hosting many applications and libraries. Adding this repository gives you access to many applications, including AnyDesk.

Execute the following command in your terminal to enable Flathub:

sudo flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

By using this command, you add the Flathub repository to your Flatpak configuration. Consequently, you expand the range of available software.

Step 2: Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04 via Flatpak

With Flathub now accessible, you can advance to the installation of AnyDesk. This is achieved using the flatpak install command, which fetches and installs the specified application. Run the following command in your terminal:

flatpak install flathub com.anydesk.Anydesk -y

This command sets in motion the installation of AnyDesk from the Flathub repository. Upon successful execution, you’ll have the latest version of AnyDesk at your disposal.

If your system is currently bereft of Flatpak, you may wish to consult our guide, “How to Install Flatpak on Ubuntu”, for an exhaustive walkthrough on setting up the latest supported version of Flatpak.

Initiating AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

After successfully installing AnyDesk, you can use it on your Ubuntu Linux. You can launch AnyDesk in several ways, depending on your preference. For instance, you can use the terminal, the command line interface (CLI), or the Graphical User Interface (GUI).

Command Line Launch Method For AnyDesk on Ubuntu

For users who favor using the terminal, you can quickly start AnyDesk with a straightforward command. To do this, type the following in your terminal:

anydesk

This launches the AnyDesk application, providing access to the remote desktop interface.

For users who have installed AnyDesk using Flatpak, the command alters slightly. The corresponding command to initiate AnyDesk is as follows:

flatpak run com.anydesk.Anydesk

GUI Launch Method For AnyDesk on Ubuntu

AnyDesk can also be accessed using the GUI for those who prefer a more visual approach. This approach allows users to avoid the command line terminal and access the application directly. The sequence of steps to achieve this is as follows:

• Open ‘Activities’
• Navigate to ‘Show Applications
• Search and click on ‘AnyDesk’

Tips on Getting Started with AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

Mastering AnyDesk on your Ubuntu Linux desktop can vastly improve your remote desktop interactions. Here, we delve into a variety of tips and tricks to help you make the most of AnyDesk on Ubuntu. Let’s explore them in greater detail:

Customizing Your AnyDesk Alias on Ubuntu

To make your remote desktop more identifiable, AnyDesk allows you to customize your alias. This can be done by:

1. Launching AnyDesk
2. Clicking on the gear icon to access Settings
3. Navigating to the User Interface tab
4. Under the Alias section, you can set a new, unique alias for your device

Remember to choose an alias that is unique and easy to remember.

Set Up Unattended Access For AnyDesk on Ubuntu

One of the standout features of AnyDesk is its ability to allow unattended access. This is particularly useful if you can access your computer or provide remote support remotely. Here’s how you can set it up:

1. Launch AnyDesk
2. Click on the Security tab in the Settings menu
3. Check the box labeled Enable unattended access
4. Set a strong password

Do remember to set a strong password and keep it secure. Unattended access can pose a security risk if misused.

Using the Whiteboard during a Session with AnyDesk on Ubuntu

AnyDesk provides a whiteboard that you can use during a session. It is available on the toolbar once you start a session. This feature is handy when you’re providing remote support or in a remote meeting.

Adjusting the Display Quality on AnyDesk with Ubuntu

Depending on your internet speed, you might want to adjust the display quality. If you’re dealing with slower internet speeds, reducing the display quality can help with the performance. To adjust the display quality:

1. Launch AnyDesk
2. Click on the gear icon to access Settings
3. Navigate to the Display tab
4. Adjust the display quality as required

Taking Advantage of Keyboard Shortcuts with AnyDesk on Ubuntu

AnyDesk provides a variety of keyboard shortcuts that speed up everyday tasks. For example, pressing F11 switches to Full-Screen mode. Additionally, you can find a comprehensive list of keyboard shortcuts in the AnyDesk Help Center.

To enhance your AnyDesk experience on Ubuntu Linux, consider these tips. First, dive into the software and explore its settings. Then, adjust them to find a configuration that perfectly matches your remote desktop needs.

Additional AnyDesk Commands with Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

Update AnyDesk on Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

The AnyDesk software integrates seamlessly into your Ubuntu package management system, ensuring you usually receive updates during your regular system updates. However, you might want to manually check for an AnyDesk update in certain situations. To achieve that, input the following command into your terminal:

sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade

This command checks for AnyDesk updates and updates to all installed packages on your Ubuntu system.

For users who installed AnyDesk through Flatpak, the command for checking for updates differs slightly:

sudo flatpak update

This command prompts Flatpak to check all its installed applications, including AnyDesk, for updates.

Remove AnyDesk From Ubuntu 22.04 or 20.04

There may come a time when you no longer require AnyDesk on your Ubuntu system. When this time comes, you can uninstall the software using the following command:

sudo apt remove anydesk

The first command removes the AnyDesk list from your APT sources, and the second command removes the associated GPG key.

If you installed AnyDesk using Flatpak, you would need a different command to uninstall it:

sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/anydesk.list
sudo rm /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg

Lastly, if you installed the Flatpak version, use the following command to remove it:

flatpak uninstall com.anydesk.Anydesk

This command signals Flatpak to remove AnyDesk from your system.

Conclusion

Throughout this tutorial, we’ve explored the essential steps required to get started with AnyDesk on your Ubuntu system. AnyDesk provides a comprehensive set of tools and features to enhance your remote desktop experiences, whether for personal or professional use. It integrates well with Ubuntu’s package management system, and its performance is commendable, handling even high-intensity tasks with grace and reliability.