How to Install AnyDesk on Ubuntu - LinuxCapable (2024)

AnyDesk stands out as a cutting-edge remote desktop application, enabling users to access personal computers and servers from anywhere in the world with an internet connection. Its unparalleled speed and reliability have made it a preferred choice for IT professionals and casual users.

Below are key features and highlights that set AnyDesk apart:

• High Performance: Enjoy seamless remote access with low latency, high frame rates, and real-time collaboration.
• Secure Encryption: Every connection is secured with TLS 1.2 technology and RSA 2048 asymmetric key exchange encryption.
• Cross-Platform Support: AnyDesk is available for Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, ensuring wide compatibility.
• Easy to Use: Its intuitive interface allows easy navigation and control, even for first-time users.
• Lightweight Installation: The software is designed to be lightweight, requiring minimal system resources.
• File Transfer: Effortlessly transfer files between devices during a remote session.
• Customization Options: Tailor AnyDesk to fit your specific needs with customizable settings.
• Multi-Language Support: AnyDesk supports various languages, making it accessible to a global audience.

These features make AnyDesk an indispensable tool for remote access, combining ease of use with robust security measures. Now, let’s dive into the technical how-to.

Method 1: Install AnyDesk via APT PPA

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 updatesudo apt upgrade

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.

Import AnyDesk APT Repository

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

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

Finalize AnyDesk Installation via APT Command

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

sudo apt install anydesk

Method 2: Install AnyDesk via Flatpak and Flathub

The Flatpak package manager offers a different way to install AnyDesk on Ubuntu. 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.

Note: If your system currently does not have Flatpak installed, you may wish to consult our guide, “How to Install Flatpak on Ubuntu”.

Enable Flathub For AnyDesk

The first task in installing AnyDesk using Flatpak 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.

Proceed to Install AnyDesk via Flatpak Command

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

Initiating AnyDesk via CLI Commands or GUI Path

Command Line Launch Method For AnyDesk

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

anydesk

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

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’

Additional AnyDesk Commands

Update AnyDesk

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 check for an AnyDesk update in certain situations manually.

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

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.listsudo 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

We installed AnyDesk on Ubuntu versions 24.04, 22.04, and 20.04 LTS in this guide, using the APT Package Manager and alternative methods like Snap and Flatpak. We’ve shared essential first-time tips to secure and optimize your AnyDesk experience, keyboard shortcuts, and customization tricks to make remote access as smooth as possible. As you use AnyDesk, remember to keep your software updated and regularly check for new features or security enhancements.

Useful Links

Here are some valuable links related to using AnyDesk:

• AnyDesk Official Website: Visit the official AnyDesk website for information about the remote desktop software, its features, and download options.
• AnyDesk Resources: Explore various resources, including guides, case studies, and whitepapers, to help you make the most out of AnyDesk.
• AnyDesk Support Knowledge Base: Access the knowledge base for troubleshooting tips, detailed articles, and support information.