Re: multiple X servers on one computer?

[Oeystein Olsen <oeysteio shannon jpl nasa gov>]

On Wednesday 31 October 2001 02:25 am, you wrote:
> Is there a way to run more than one X server on my linux system, so that
> I have one instance displayed on ALT-F7, the next on ALT-F8, and perhaps
> a third attached to a VNCserver so that someone can use my computer
> remotely, complete with his own desktop and settings simultaneously?
>
> I am particularly interested in the VNCserver option, because I want
> to try and device a system where a large number of users can all use a
> single linux server with VNC for example.

I don't now about more switching between X servers on the same machine, and I 
really can't see the use of that. Wouldn't virtual desktops to the same? Or 
do you intend to let different users log onto the same machine, use the same 
monitor, keybord etc. without the need of logging in and out? That I I don't 
know how to do.

But, if you have a system of linux/unix-machines(*), you could use NFS, 
Network File System, to mount the the different machines on the same 
filesystem. Then every user can log onto any machine in your network and get 
their settings on the desktop. It will be exactly the same as tf hey logged 
onto your machine, although the processes run on the machine they logged 
onto. Look at

http://www.redhat.com/support/resources/tips/NFS-Tips/NFS-Tips.html#toc5

It's not very good. But it should give you ideas of what to look for. NFS 
will give better results than VNC for the users, although that's only my 
opinion.  I only use VNC if I have to some work while I'm travelling, since 
I'm then able go from one machine to another and continue the my work where I 
left it. On tthe system back home I've really never had any use for that.

(*)You would have to install NFS on wondows to be able to add  windows 
machines. I think samba does the same thing


-- 
Øystein Olsen
oeysteio shannon jpl nasa gov, oystein olsen astro uio no, 
Institute of Theoretical Astrophysics
P.O. box 1029 Blindern, N-0315 Oslo, Norway