How to enable Remote Desktop (RDP) access during lock screen on Ubuntu

In many scenarios, enabling Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) access while the screen is locked is crucial for remote administration. By default, Ubuntu prevents such connections once the session is locked, which can hinder critical remote operations. Adjusting certain settings allows continuous connectivity for administrators who require uninterrupted access.

For finer control over lock screen behavior, dconf-editor interacts with the underlying GSettings system to modify default Ubuntu configurations. It can override restrictions that normally stop remote desktop connections when the display is locked, ensuring that remote tasks proceed without interruption.

Securing a system with remote desktop capability requires strong passwords, encryption, and verified network integrity. Administrators should adopt robust access credentials and ensure connections take place over trusted networks. Maintaining this balance between accessibility and protection is essential in remote environments.

1. Open the terminal.
2. Update apt's' package list.
3. Install the dconf-editor.

   $ sudo apt update && sudo apt install --assume-yes dconf-editor

4. Launch the dconf-editor.

   $ dconf-editor

5. Navigate to org > gnome > desktop > remote-desktop in dconf-editor.
6. Set the require-user-authorization setting to false.
7. Close the dconf-editor.
8. Confirm your RDP server is running and properly configured.
9. Lock your screen and test RDP access from a remote machine.