multiple servers, one gui machine

For some reason I consistently forget how to do this… so I’m jotting it down. You can manage all your machines with an X11 gui from one machine via ssh forwarding.

First, jump into a terminal using ctrl+alt+Fx (where x= 1-6 on ubuntu).
Start a new X client session using xinit — : x vtX (where x = a number > 0 that is not already in use for an x display, and X equals 11 or 12… this allows you to switch to the new gui using ctr+alt+X)
Next, you’ll be on a blank screen with a terminal in the upper left. ssh while forwarding the remote x via ssh -X user@host
you’re set! you can start your window manager or individual programs now.

Now… there… I’ll remember.

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