x11vnc

x11vnc allows one to view and interact remotely with an existing desktop session.

How do I start x11vnc?

In a terminal window in your existing desktop session start a x11vncserver with password protection. If you already have a password file ~/.vnc/passwd from vncserver you must enter:

pmuster@zampano:~$ x11vnc -usepw -q

The VNC desktop is:      zampano:0
PORT=5900

To start x11vnc in a ssh terminal not belonging to the existing desktop session you must specify the X11 display:

pmuster@zampano:~ $ x11vnc -usepw -q -display :0

The VNC desktop is:      zampano:0
PORT=5900

If you don't have a password file from vncserver usage you will be prompted for one:

pmuster@zampano:~ $ x11vnc -usepw -q
Enter VNC password:
Verify password:
Write password to /home/pmuster/.vnc/passwd?  [y]/n y
Password written to: /home/pmuster/.vnc/passwd

The VNC desktop is:      zampano:0
PORT=5900

Connect with VNC Viewer

After setting everything up you can connect to it with the program VNC Viewer

After connection, if you log out or close the window the process will be stopped.