Apache Guacamole

Apache Guacamole is a clientless remote desktop gateway that provides access to machines over standard protocols like RDP, VNC, and SSH directly from a web browser. It centralizes connection management and authentication, allowing users to reach remote desktops and terminals without installing native client software.

Key Features

• Browser-based access (“clientless”): no plugins or local clients required
• Supports RDP, VNC, and SSH through the guacd proxy/daemon
• Central connection management (organize, share, and control access to connections)
• Multiple authentication options via extensions (e.g., LDAP/Active Directory, RADIUS, SSO options)
• Database-backed configuration (commonly MySQL/MariaDB or PostgreSQL via the web app)
• Session features typically expected of remote access portals: clipboard integration, file transfer (protocol/extension dependent), and in-session controls
• Auditing/visibility features via logs and extension ecosystem (deployment dependent)

Use Cases

• Provide a secure, browser-based jump host for admins to reach servers/desktops
• Offer helpdesk/IT remote access to internal machines without distributing VPN/RDP clients
• Enable BYOD access to lab/VDI resources through a controlled web portal

Limitations and Considerations

• Some capabilities (SSO methods, advanced auditing, storage integrations) depend on installing/configuring specific extensions and external identity systems
• Performance/UX is workload- and network-dependent (especially for graphics-heavy desktops), and tuning (RDP settings, compression) may be required

Guacamole is widely used as a remote access gateway because it is protocol-focused, browser-native, and extensible through an established server/webapp architecture. It fits organizations needing centralized, controlled remote access while keeping endpoints lightweight.