How To Install AnyDesk on Linux Mint 22
Remote desktop software has become essential for modern computing environments, enabling seamless access to computers from anywhere in the world. AnyDesk stands out as one of the most reliable and feature-rich remote desktop solutions available for Linux systems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through multiple methods to install AnyDesk on Linux Mint 22, ensuring you can establish secure remote connections quickly and efficiently.
Whether you’re managing remote servers, providing technical support, or accessing your home computer from work, AnyDesk offers the performance and security features necessary for professional remote access. Linux Mint 22, based on Ubuntu’s LTS foundation, provides excellent compatibility with AnyDesk’s installation requirements and ongoing functionality.
What is AnyDesk?
AnyDesk represents a cutting-edge remote desktop application designed specifically for high-performance remote access across multiple operating systems. This lightweight software solution utilizes proprietary DeskRT codec technology to deliver exceptional connection quality with minimal bandwidth requirements, making it ideal for both personal and professional use cases.
The software enables users to remotely control computers as if they were sitting directly in front of them. Key features include real-time desktop sharing, file transfer capabilities, session recording, and cross-platform compatibility spanning Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS devices. AnyDesk’s architecture prioritizes security through TLS 1.2 encryption, RSA 2048-bit key exchange, and optional two-factor authentication protocols.
For personal use, AnyDesk provides free access to core functionality. Commercial and enterprise environments require subscription licenses that unlock advanced features such as unlimited concurrent sessions, custom client configurations, comprehensive session logging, address book management, and priority customer support. The software particularly excels in scenarios requiring consistent performance over varying network conditions, including low-bandwidth and high-latency connections.
AnyDesk’s proprietary compression algorithms achieve frame rates up to 60 fps while maintaining minimal system resource consumption. This efficiency makes it suitable for everything from simple file transfers to resource-intensive applications requiring real-time interaction.
System Requirements and Compatibility
Linux Mint 22 provides comprehensive compatibility with AnyDesk installations across all desktop environment variants. The operating system’s Ubuntu LTS foundation ensures stable package management and long-term software support, making it an ideal platform for AnyDesk deployment.
Supported Linux Mint 22 Editions:
- Cinnamon (flagship desktop environment)
- MATE (lightweight traditional interface)
- XFCE (minimal resource consumption)
Minimum System Requirements:
- 64-bit processor architecture
- 2GB RAM (4GB recommended for optimal performance)
- 200MB available disk space for installation
- Active internet connection for initial setup
- X11 or Wayland display server support
Network Requirements:
- Outbound HTTPS access (port 443)
- TCP port 7070 for AnyDesk relay server connections
- UDP ports for direct connections (automatically configured)
The installation process requires standard user privileges with sudo access for system-level package management. Linux Mint 22’s software repositories and package managers fully support AnyDesk’s APT repository integration, ensuring seamless updates and dependency resolution.
Pre-Installation Preparation
Proper system preparation prevents installation complications and ensures optimal AnyDesk performance on Linux Mint 22. Begin by updating your system packages to their latest versions, which resolves potential dependency conflicts and security vulnerabilities.
Essential System Updates:
sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade -y
Installing Required Dependencies:
sudo apt install dirmngr ca-certificates software-properties-common apt-transport-https curl gnupg2 -y
These packages provide cryptographic key management, secure repository access, and network communication tools essential for AnyDesk installation. The gnupg2
package specifically handles GPG key verification for repository authentication.
Verifying Sudo Privileges:
Confirm your user account has administrative access:
sudo -v
Network Configuration Check:
Ensure your firewall settings allow AnyDesk connections:
sudo ufw status
Existing Software Conflicts:
Remove any conflicting remote desktop software that might interfere with AnyDesk functionality:
sudo apt list --installed | grep -E "(teamviewer|vnc|chrome-remote-desktop)"
Create a system backup or snapshot if available, particularly for production systems where remote access is critical for ongoing operations.
Method 1: Installing AnyDesk via Official Repository
The official repository method provides the most reliable and updatable AnyDesk installation for Linux Mint 22 systems. This approach ensures automatic updates through the standard APT package management system and maintains cryptographic verification of all downloaded packages.
Adding GPG Key and Repository
Modern Linux security practices require cryptographic verification of software packages before installation. AnyDesk provides an official GPG key that validates package authenticity and prevents tampering during download.
Import AnyDesk GPG Key:
curl -fsSL https://keys.anydesk.com/repos/DEB-GPG-KEY | gpg --dearmor | sudo tee /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg > /dev/null
This command downloads the official AnyDesk GPG key and stores it in the system’s trusted keyring directory. The gpg --dearmor
conversion ensures compatibility with modern APT security standards, replacing deprecated apt-key
functionality.
Add Official Repository:
echo 'deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg] http://deb.anydesk.com/ all main' | sudo tee /etc/apt/sources.list.d/anydesk.list
Verify Repository Addition:
cat /etc/apt/sources.list.d/anydesk.list
The output should display: deb [signed-by=/usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg] http://deb.anydesk.com/ all main
Package Installation Process
With the repository properly configured, update the package cache to include AnyDesk packages in available software lists.
Update Package Database:
sudo apt update
Monitor the output for any GPG verification errors or repository access issues. Successful execution indicates proper repository configuration and network connectivity.
Install AnyDesk Package:
sudo apt install anydesk -y
The installation process downloads the latest stable AnyDesk version along with necessary dependencies. APT automatically resolves package requirements and configures system integration components.
Installation Verification:
dpkg -l | grep anydesk
anydesk --version
These commands confirm successful package installation and display version information for troubleshooting purposes.
Post-Installation Configuration
Initial configuration establishes AnyDesk’s unique system identifier and prepares the software for remote connections.
Launch AnyDesk for Initial Setup:
anydesk
The first launch generates a unique AnyDesk ID displayed in the main application window. This nine-digit identifier enables other computers to establish connections to your system.
Service Configuration:
sudo systemctl status anydesk
sudo systemctl enable anydesk
These commands verify the AnyDesk service status and enable automatic startup during system boot. Service activation ensures AnyDesk remains available for incoming connections even after system restarts.
Security Configuration:
Access the Settings menu within AnyDesk to configure:
- Security password for unattended access
- Connection permissions and restrictions
- Audio and display quality preferences
- File transfer authorization settings
Method 2: Installing AnyDesk via DEB Package
Direct DEB package installation provides an alternative approach when repository access is limited or specific version control is required. This method downloads the complete installation package directly from AnyDesk’s official website.
Downloading the DEB Package
Navigate to the official AnyDesk download page to access the latest DEB package release.
Download Process:
- Open your web browser and visit: https://anydesk.com/en/downloads/linux
- Click “Debian/Ubuntu/Mint” to download the appropriate .deb file
- Save the package to your Downloads directory
Alternative Command-Line Download:
cd ~/Downloads
wget https://download.anydesk.com/linux/anydesk_6.3.2-1_amd64.deb
Replace the version number with the current release available on the download page.
Installing via dpkg Command
The dpkg package manager handles direct DEB file installation with dependency resolution through APT integration.
Install DEB Package:
cd ~/Downloads
sudo dpkg -i anydesk_*.deb
Resolve Missing Dependencies:
If dependency conflicts arise during installation, use APT to fix broken packages:
sudo apt-get install -f
This command automatically downloads and installs any missing dependencies required for AnyDesk functionality.
Alternative GUI Installation:
Double-click the downloaded DEB file in your file manager to launch the graphical package installer. This method provides a user-friendly interface for users preferring visual installation processes.
Troubleshooting DEB Installation
Common installation issues typically involve dependency conflicts or corrupted download files.
Dependency Resolution:
sudo apt --fix-broken install
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
Package Integrity Verification:
dpkg -I anydesk_*.deb
dpkg -c anydesk_*.deb
These commands display package information and contents, helping identify corruption or version compatibility issues.
Clean Installation Retry:
sudo dpkg -r anydesk
sudo apt autoremove
# Download fresh package and retry installation
Method 3: Installing via Flatpak
Flatpak installation provides sandboxed application deployment with enhanced security isolation and universal package compatibility. This method particularly benefits users requiring containerized applications or those with complex system configurations.
Flatpak Setup and Configuration
Linux Mint 22 includes Flatpak support by default, but Flathub repository access requires explicit configuration.
Enable Flathub Repository:
flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo
Verify Flatpak Installation:
flatpak --version
flatpak remotes
The output should list Flathub among available repositories, confirming proper configuration for application downloads.
AnyDesk Flatpak Installation
Install AnyDesk from Flathub:
flatpak install flathub com.anydesk.Anydesk -y
This command downloads the containerized AnyDesk application with all necessary runtime dependencies included in the Flatpak package.
Launch Flatpak AnyDesk:
flatpak run com.anydesk.Anydesk
Desktop Integration:
Flatpak automatically creates desktop menu entries and file associations for seamless system integration. Access AnyDesk through your application launcher or execute the run command for direct terminal launching.
Flatpak Updates:
flatpak update com.anydesk.Anydesk
Flatpak maintains independent update cycles from system package managers, requiring separate update commands for application maintenance.
Initial Setup and Configuration
AnyDesk’s initial configuration establishes connection parameters and security settings essential for reliable remote access functionality.
First Launch and Basic Setup
Starting AnyDesk:
anydesk &
The ampersand runs AnyDesk in the background, allowing continued terminal use while the application operates.
Understanding the Interface:
The main AnyDesk window displays your unique connection ID prominently at the top. This nine-digit identifier remains constant unless manually regenerated and serves as your system’s address for incoming connections.
Connection Testing:
Use AnyDesk’s connection field to establish test connections with other AnyDesk-enabled systems. Enter a remote AnyDesk ID and click “Connect” to initiate outbound connections.
Security and Access Configuration
Unattended Access Setup:
Configure password-protected access for remote connections when no user is logged in:
- Click the gear icon to access Settings
- Navigate to “Security” tab
- Set a secure password for “Unattended Access”
- Enable “Allow unattended access” checkbox
Connection Permissions:
Configure granular access controls:
- File transfer permissions (read/write access levels)
- Audio transmission settings
- Keyboard and mouse input authorization
- Display quality and bandwidth limitations
Whitelist Configuration:
Restrict connections to specific AnyDesk IDs for enhanced security:
- Access “Security” settings
- Enable “Only allow connections from trusted sources”
- Add authorized AnyDesk IDs to the whitelist
This configuration prevents unauthorized connection attempts while maintaining convenient access for approved users.
Using AnyDesk: Basic Operations
AnyDesk’s operational interface provides intuitive controls for both outgoing connections and incoming access management.
Connecting to Remote Computers
Establishing Outbound Connections:
- Launch AnyDesk and locate the “Remote Desk” input field
- Enter the target system’s AnyDesk ID
- Click “Connect” to initiate the connection request
Connection Authentication:
Remote systems may require password authentication or user approval before granting access. AnyDesk displays connection status and any required authentication prompts during the establishment process.
Session Management:
Active connections display control options for:
- Display quality adjustment (speed vs. image quality)
- Audio transmission toggle
- File transfer window access
- Full-screen mode activation
- Connection information and statistics
File Transfer Operations:
AnyDesk includes integrated file transfer functionality accessible during active sessions:
- Click the file transfer icon in the connection toolbar
- Navigate source and destination directories
- Drag and drop files between local and remote systems
Allowing Remote Access
Accepting Incoming Requests:
When other users attempt connections to your system, AnyDesk displays authorization dialogs requiring explicit approval or denial.
Session Monitoring:
Monitor active incoming connections through:
- Connection status indicators
- Session duration timers
- Data transfer statistics
- Connected user identification
Session Control:
Maintain control over incoming sessions by:
- Temporarily disabling remote input
- Restricting file transfer permissions
- Ending sessions when access is no longer needed
- Reviewing connection logs for security monitoring
Concurrent Session Management:
Free AnyDesk accounts support single concurrent sessions, while commercial licenses enable multiple simultaneous connections for enhanced productivity.
Advanced Configuration and Features
AnyDesk’s advanced features optimize performance and enable sophisticated remote access scenarios tailored to professional requirements.
Performance Optimization
Display Quality Settings:
Balance image quality against connection speed through granular display controls:
- Automatic quality adjustment based on bandwidth
- Manual quality overrides for specific scenarios
- Color depth optimization (16-bit vs. 24-bit)
- Frame rate limitations for bandwidth conservation
Network Optimization:
Configure connection preferences for various network conditions:
- Direct connections vs. relay server routing
- TCP tunnel mode for restrictive firewall environments
- Bandwidth limitation settings
- Connection timeout and retry parameters
Audio Configuration:
AnyDesk supports bidirectional audio transmission with quality controls:
- Audio codec selection (quality vs. compression)
- Sample rate adjustment
- Microphone and speaker routing options
- Audio latency compensation settings
Enterprise and Advanced Features
Address Book Management:
Organize frequently accessed systems through the integrated address book:
- Contact categorization and grouping
- Connection aliases and descriptions
- Automated connection credentials
- Bulk contact management tools
Session Logging:
Commercial licenses include comprehensive session recording capabilities:
- Automatic session recording activation
- Recorded session playback and review
- Storage location configuration
- Privacy controls for sensitive operations
Custom Client Configurations:
Enterprise deployments support customized AnyDesk clients:
- Corporate branding and logo integration
- Preconfigured connection settings
- Restricted functionality for security compliance
- Silent installation and deployment options
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Systematic troubleshooting resolves most AnyDesk installation and operation challenges encountered on Linux Mint 22 systems.
Installation and Connection Issues
Repository Access Problems:
When GPG key verification fails:
sudo rm /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg
curl -fsSL https://keys.anydesk.com/repos/DEB-GPG-KEY | gpg --dearmor | sudo tee /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg > /dev/null
sudo apt update
Service Startup Failures:
Resolve AnyDesk service issues:
sudo systemctl restart anydesk
sudo systemctl status anydesk
journalctl -u anydesk -f
The journal command displays real-time service logs for detailed error diagnosis.
Network Connectivity Issues:
Configure firewall rules for AnyDesk access:
sudo ufw allow 7070/tcp
sudo ufw allow out 443/tcp
sudo ufw reload
Connection Timeout Problems:
Increase connection timeout values in AnyDesk settings:
- Navigate to Settings > Connection
- Adjust “Connection timeout” to 60 seconds or higher
- Enable “Keep connection alive” for unstable networks
Performance and Compatibility Issues
Audio Synchronization Problems:
Resolve audio lag issues:
- Disable PulseAudio in favor of ALSA if necessary
- Adjust audio buffer sizes in system settings
- Select appropriate audio codecs in AnyDesk preferences
Display Resolution Issues:
Handle scaling and resolution conflicts:
- Match remote and local display scaling settings
- Use AnyDesk’s display scaling override options
- Configure X11 display settings for optimal compatibility
Keyboard Layout Problems:
Ensure consistent keyboard functionality:
setxkbmap -query
localectl status
Configure matching keyboard layouts on local and remote systems to prevent input mapping issues.
Desktop Environment Integration:
Different desktop environments may require specific configurations:
- Cinnamon: Enable window compositing for optimal performance
- MATE: Adjust Marco compositor settings
- XFCE: Configure xfwm4 compositor options
Security Best Practices
Implementing comprehensive security measures protects AnyDesk installations against unauthorized access and potential vulnerabilities.
Strong Authentication Policies:
- Use complex passwords combining alphanumeric and special characters
- Implement unique passwords for each AnyDesk installation
- Regular password rotation (monthly or quarterly)
- Two-factor authentication where supported
Network Security Considerations:
Configure network-level protections:
- VPN tunneling for enhanced connection encryption
- Network segmentation to isolate remote access systems
- Intrusion detection monitoring for unusual connection patterns
- Regular security audits of remote access configurations
Session Security:
- Enable session recording for accountability and compliance
- Implement session timeout policies for inactive connections
- Monitor and log all remote access activities
- Regular review of authorized user lists and permissions
System Updates and Maintenance:
- Maintain current AnyDesk versions for security patches
- Regular Linux Mint system updates for underlying security
- Monitor AnyDesk security advisories and vulnerabilities
- Backup configurations before implementing security changes
Corporate Security Compliance:
Organizations should implement additional measures:
- Centralized license management and user provisioning
- Integration with existing identity management systems
- Compliance with industry-specific security standards
- Regular security training for remote access users
Uninstalling AnyDesk
Complete AnyDesk removal requires eliminating the application package, configuration files, and repository sources to ensure clean system state.
Repository Installation Removal:
sudo apt remove --purge anydesk
sudo apt autoremove
Configuration File Cleanup:
rm -rf ~/.anydesk
sudo rm /etc/apt/sources.list.d/anydesk.list
sudo rm /usr/share/keyrings/anydesk.gpg
DEB Package Removal:
sudo dpkg -r anydesk
sudo apt-get autoremove
Flatpak Removal:
flatpak uninstall com.anydesk.Anydesk
Service Cleanup:
Ensure complete service removal:
sudo systemctl disable anydesk
sudo systemctl daemon-reload
Verification of Complete Removal:
dpkg -l | grep anydesk
ps aux | grep anydesk
These commands should return no results if removal was successful.
Congratulations! You have successfully installed AnyDesk. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the latest version of the AnyDesk remote desktop tool on Linux Mint 22 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official AnyDesk website.