How to Install Xsrv on macOS

Xsrv is a reliable open-source implementation of the X Window System. Xsrv allows you to access graphical applications running on remote servers from your macOS device. This tutorial will guide you step-by-step through the installation process of Xsrv on macOS.

Prerequisites

• A macOS device
• An administrator account on the device
• Access to the Terminal application

Installation Steps

1. Open the Terminal application on your macOS device by going to "Applications" -> "Utilities" -> "Terminal."
2. Before proceeding with the installation, it is recommended to update your macOS system. To do so, run the following command in the terminal:

   sudo softwareupdate -i -a
   

3. Install XQuartz by going to https://www.xquartz.org/ and download the latest version of XQuartz for macOS.
4. Open the XQuartz .dmg file and follow the installation process. Ensure that the "Allow connections from network clients" option is checked.
5. Once XQuartz is installed, run the following command in the Terminal to install Xsrv:

   brew install xsrv
   

6. After the installation is complete, start the Xsrv server by running the following command in the terminal:

   xsrv
   

7. If the server started successfully, you should see a message in the Terminal similar to the following:

   Starting Xsrv on display:0
   

8. Xsrv is now installed on your macOS device, and you can use it to remotely access X11 applications.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you should now have Xsrv installed and running on your macOS device. You can use it to connect to a remote X11 server and access graphical applications.

If you want to self-host in an easy, hands free way, need an external IP address, or simply want your data in your own hands, give IPv6.rs a try!

Alternatively, for the best virtual desktop, try Shells!