The Linux Remote Desktop (RustDesk) Policy allows administrators to enable or disable remote access on Linux devices through the RustDesk Streamer, which Swif.ai uses to provide secure, fast, and lightweight remote desktop support on Linux endpoints.
This policy is ideal for organizations that rely on remote assistance, IT troubleshooting, or remote operations on Linux systems—whether company-owned or BYOD.
Requirements
Supported OS: Linux
RustDesk Streamer installed automatically by Swif.ai when enabled
Overview
Swif.ai integrates with RustDesk, an open-source remote desktop platform, to deliver reliable remote support for Linux devices.
This policy controls whether RustDesk is launched and enabled on a managed Linux device. When the policy is set to allow remote desktop access, Swif.ai will automatically manage and run the RustDesk Streamer in the background.
Use this policy to:
Allow IT teams to remotely access and troubleshoot Linux devices
Disable remote desktop features for high-security or restricted systems
Maintain consistent security and support configurations across your Linux fleet
Ensure remote connectivity is available only where allowed
This policy does not configure VNC, RDP, or other Linux remote desktop frameworks—only RustDesk as managed by Swif.ai.
Configurable Settings
Remote Desktop Enable
Controls whether RustDesk remote access is enabled on the device.
Options:
True – Enables RustDesk remote desktop; RustDesk Streamer will run on the device
False – Disables RustDesk remote desktop; RustDesk Streamer will not run
Null – Leaves the current remote desktop setting unchanged
When enabled, RustDesk is started and managed automatically, allowing authorized Swif.ai users to initiate remote support sessions.
Minimum Requirements: Linux
Best Practices
Enable only for devices requiring remote support, such as remote worker systems, kiosk environments, or server endpoints needing remote troubleshooting.
Disable for sensitive workloads, including:
Production servers
Security-critical systems
R&D or confidential data environments
Combine this policy with:
Linux Firewall or network security controls
Linux User, Software, and Security Policies
Zero-trust access practices
Using Swif.ai device groups is recommended to manage different support needs (e.g., supported Linux desktops vs. secure servers).
How to Configure
Open the Swif Admin Console
Go to Policies → Create New Policy
Select Linux Remote Desktop (RustDesk) Policy
Set Remote Desktop Enable to:
True to activate RustDesk support
False to block remote access
Click Continue
Assign the policy to Linux device groups
Save and apply
Changes will apply on the device’s next check-in.
Troubleshooting
Remote desktop isn’t working even when enabled
Verify the device is online
Ensure RustDesk is not blocked by firewall rules
Confirm that the policy is set to True
Check that the device has synced with Swif.ai recently
Look for conflicting OS-level remote desktop services
Remote desktop still appears enabled after disabling
Wait for the device’s next check-in
Confirm there are no local scripts restarting RustDesk
Confirm policy precedence if multiple policies apply