X2Go
X2Go: A free, self-hosted option for reconnectable Linux desktop sessions over SSH. Ranked #94 of 134 in Remote Desktop Software by our editors (5.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for linux users wanting free open-source desktop sessions.
At a glance
- Editor score5.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forLinux users wanting free open-source desktop sessions
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- Access modeBoth
- Founded2006
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with self-hosted deployment
- Reconnectable graphical sessions with file and printer sharing
- Centralized brokering, published applications, and load balancing
Where it doesn't
- No standard mobile apps
- Requires a client/server self-hosted setup
- Desktop focus is narrower than broader remote-access suites
Our verdict on X2Go
X2Go is open-source, self-hosted remote desktop software for accessing graphical Linux desktops and applications. It uses a client/server architecture: X2Go Server runs on the remote machine, while X2Go Client or PyHoca-GUI runs on the client. The platform is suited to Linux users who need persistent graphical sessions, remote assistance, or access to published applications across Windows, macOS, and Linux clients.
Pricing is straightforward: X2Go is free and open source rather than a hosted subscription service. The published product details describe self-hosted client/server software, so its value comes from running and managing the remote environment yourself instead of selecting between paid service tiers. Features include session disconnect and reconnect, SSH-secured traffic, client-to-server file sharing, printer sharing, sound redirection, and desktop sharing for remote assistance. That makes the feature set practical for users who want more than basic screen access while retaining control of the server environment.
Its strongest fit is a Linux-centered setup that benefits from persistent sessions and centralized administration. The session broker supports centralized configuration and load balancing, while the Linux client can access RDP systems. Windows, macOS, and Linux are supported platforms, but mobile apps are not part of the standard offering. Android support is described as a proposed or experimental direction rather than a standard mobile app. Choose X2Go when free, open-source, self-hosted Linux access is the priority; choose another remote desktop product when mobile access or a hosted service model is essential.
Your product? Our editors can test X2Go in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →
X2Go pricing
X2Go fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Access mode | Both |
| Supported platforms | Linux, Windows, macOS, web browser |
| File transfer | Yes |
| Session recording | Not verified |
| Managed devices | Not verified |
| Mobile apps | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Self-hosted, Desktop, Browser extension |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | wiki.x2go.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to X2Go
- StarDeskA remote desktop app: reach your own Windows PC or Mac from Windows, macOS, Android or iOS.9.7
- TeamViewer RemoteA mature remote support platform with broad coverage, integrations, and AI features.9.4
- SplashtopA paid remote-access suite with low entry pricing, broad platforms, and deep integrations.9.2
Also Ranked In
X2Go is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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