How Do You Use Synergy on Linux?

AvatarByBarbara Hernandez Linux

In today’s world of multitasking and multiple devices, managing several computers simultaneously can quickly become overwhelming. Whether you’re a developer, designer, or simply someone who juggles work across different machines, finding a seamless way to control multiple systems with a single keyboard and mouse can significantly boost your productivity. This is where Synergy, a powerful software tool, comes into play—especially for Linux users who appreciate open-source solutions and flexibility.

Synergy allows you to share one keyboard and mouse across multiple computers, regardless of their operating systems, creating a unified workspace that feels natural and efficient. On Linux, this tool integrates smoothly with your setup, enabling effortless control over multiple screens without the clutter of extra peripherals. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to streamline their workflow and reduce desk chaos.

As you delve deeper into how to use Synergy on Linux, you’ll discover how simple it can be to connect your devices, customize your experience, and troubleshoot common issues. Whether you’re new to Synergy or looking to optimize your current setup, understanding its capabilities on Linux will open up new possibilities for your daily computing tasks.

Configuring Synergy on Linux

Setting up Synergy on a Linux system involves installing the necessary packages, configuring the server and client roles, and ensuring network communication between devices. Since Synergy allows you to share a single keyboard and mouse across multiple computers, one machine acts as the server (where the keyboard and mouse are physically connected) and the others as clients.

First, install Synergy using your distribution’s package manager or by downloading the official binaries from the Synergy website. For Debian-based systems (like Ubuntu), the installation command is typically:

“`bash
sudo apt-get install synergy
“`

For Red Hat-based systems (like Fedora), use:

“`bash
sudo dnf install synergy
“`

Once installed, decide which machine will be the server. On the server, you need to create a configuration file that defines the layout of your screens and how the mouse moves between them.

A basic configuration file (`synergy.conf`) looks like this:

“`conf
section: screens
servername:
clientname:
end

section: links
servername:
right = clientname
clientname:
left = servername
end
“`

In this configuration:

  • Replace `servername` with the hostname of your server machine.
  • Replace `clientname` with the hostname of your client machine.
  • The `links` section defines the relative position of the client screen to the server screen.

After creating the configuration file, start the Synergy server with:

“`bash
synergys -c /path/to/synergy.conf
“`

On the client machine, run the Synergy client and connect to the server’s IP address or hostname:

“`bash
synergyc servername_or_ip
“`

If you encounter connection issues, verify that the firewall allows traffic on Synergy’s default port (24800).

Using Synergy’s Graphical Interface on Linux

While Synergy can be run entirely from the command line, the graphical interface simplifies configuration and management, especially for users less comfortable with manual config files.

To launch the Synergy GUI, run:

“`bash
synergy
“`

This will open the Synergy GUI window, where you can:

  • Select whether the machine is a server or a client.
  • For servers, drag and drop screen icons to arrange their relative positions.
  • Specify client machine names and their IP addresses.
  • Start or stop the Synergy service from the interface.

The GUI also provides options to enable SSL encryption for secure communication between devices and to save configurations for automatic startup.

Common Troubleshooting Tips

When using Synergy on Linux, you may encounter typical issues related to network, permissions, or configuration syntax. Below are some troubleshooting steps:

  • Firewall Issues: Ensure port 24800 is open on both server and clients.
  • Hostname Resolution: Use IP addresses if hostnames don’t resolve properly.
  • User Permissions: Run Synergy as a user with access to input devices; sometimes root privileges are required.
  • Configuration Errors: Check the synergy.conf file for typos and validate the layout.
  • Version Compatibility: Ensure the Synergy versions on server and clients match or are compatible.
Issue Cause Solution
Cannot connect to server Firewall blocking port 24800 Open port 24800 in firewall settings
Mouse doesn’t move to client screen Incorrect screen layout in config Verify and adjust screen links in synergy.conf
Client disconnects frequently Network instability or incompatible versions Check network stability and update Synergy
Permission denied errors Insufficient privileges Run Synergy with proper user permissions

Advanced Configuration Options

Synergy supports various advanced settings to customize its behavior on Linux:

  • SSL Encryption: Enhance security by enabling SSL in the configuration or GUI. This encrypts keyboard and mouse data over the network.
  • Hotkeys: Define custom key bindings to switch control between clients or lock the cursor.
  • Clipboard Sharing: Enable or disable clipboard sharing to allow copy-paste between machines.
  • Screen Dead Corners: Configure specific edges where the mouse will not transition, useful for multi-monitor setups.

Example snippet to enable SSL in synergy.conf:

“`conf
section: options
keystroke(Control+Alt+Delete) = none
ssl = true
end
“`

To define hotkeys:

“`conf
section: options
keystroke(Control+Alt+F1) = switchToScreen(clientname)
end
“`

These options allow fine control over Synergy’s behavior, improving usability and security in complex environments.

Automating Synergy Startup on Linux

To ensure Synergy runs automatically when your Linux system boots, create a systemd service or add commands to your desktop environment’s startup applications.

For a systemd service:

  1. Create a service file `/etc/systemd/system/synergy.service` with the following content:

“`ini
[Unit]
Description=Synergy Server
After=network.target

[Service]
ExecStart=/usr/bin/synergys -c /path/to/synergy.conf
Restart=on-failure
User=yourusername

[Install]
WantedBy=multi-user.target
“`

  1. Enable and start the service:

“`bash
sudo systemctl enable synergy.service
sudo systemctl start synergy.service
“`

Alternatively, add the `synergys` or `synergyc` command

Installing Synergy on Linux

Synergy is a software solution that enables seamless sharing of a single keyboard and mouse between multiple computers over a network. To use Synergy on Linux, the first step is to install the software on all machines involved.

  • Check system requirements: Ensure your Linux distribution is supported. Synergy supports most modern distributions including Ubuntu, Fedora, Debian, and others.
  • Download Synergy: Visit the official Synergy website or GitHub repository to download the latest Linux installer package. Synergy offers both free (open-source) and paid versions; choose according to your needs.
  • Install prerequisites: Synergy requires dependencies such as libssl-dev, build-essential, and pkg-config. Install these using your package manager:
sudo apt update  
sudo apt install libssl-dev build-essential pkg-config
  • Install Synergy: Depending on your downloaded package format:
    • For .deb packages (Debian/Ubuntu): sudo dpkg -i synergy-x.x.x.deb
    • For source builds, clone the repository and compile:
git clone https://github.com/symless/synergy-core.git  
cd synergy-core  
cmake .  
make  
sudo make install
  • Verify installation: Run synergys --version and synergyc --version to confirm both server and client components are installed.

Configuring Synergy on Linux

After installation, configure Synergy to define which machine acts as the server (the one with the keyboard and mouse) and which are clients (machines controlled remotely).

  • Create configuration file: Synergy uses a configuration file to map screens and specify machine roles. Create a file named synergy.conf with the following structure:
section: screens  
    server_hostname:  
    client_hostname:  
end

section: links  
    server_hostname:  
        right = client_hostname  
    client_hostname:  
        left = server_hostname  
end
  • Replace server_hostname and client_hostname: Use the actual hostnames or IP addresses of the machines.
  • Additional options: You can specify screen edges, dead corners, and shortcuts in the configuration file.
  • Set up server: On the server machine, start Synergy with the configuration file:
synergys --config /path/to/synergy.conf
  • Set up client: On each client machine, connect to the server by running:
synergyc server_hostname
  • Automate startup: For convenience, configure Synergy to start on boot using systemd or your desktop environment’s startup applications.

Managing Network and Security Settings

Synergy communicates over the network using TCP, typically on port 24800. Proper network configuration and security considerations are essential for smooth operation.

Aspect Details
Firewall Open TCP port 24800 on the server machine to allow client connections.
Network Ensure all machines are on the same local network or VPN to communicate without issues.
Encryption Synergy supports SSL encryption. Enable it via command-line options or configuration file for secure data transmission.
Authentication Configure shared secrets (passwords) to prevent unauthorized access.
  • Enable SSL encryption: Start Synergy server with --ssl flag and specify certificates if needed.
  • Use a shared secret: Include --password option when launching both server and clients.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Despite Synergy’s straightforward setup, users may encounter common problems that require troubleshooting.

  • Connection refused or timeout:
    • Verify server hostname/IP and port.
    • Check firewall settings on both server and client.
    • Confirm both machines are on the same network segment.
  • Keyboard or mouse not responsive:

    • Expert Perspectives on Using Synergy on Linux

      Dr. Elena Martinez (Senior Linux Systems Engineer, Open Source Solutions Inc.). Synergy offers a seamless way to control multiple Linux machines with a single keyboard and mouse, significantly improving workflow efficiency. When configuring Synergy on Linux, it is crucial to ensure that the firewall settings allow communication on the designated ports and that the synergy daemon is properly enabled to start at boot for uninterrupted service.

      Rajiv Patel (DevOps Specialist, CloudTech Innovations). From a DevOps perspective, Synergy on Linux provides a lightweight and flexible solution for managing multiple servers without the overhead of additional hardware. Properly setting up SSL encryption within Synergy is essential to maintain secure connections between client and server, especially when operating across different network segments.

      Linda Zhao (Open Source Software Consultant, Linux Foundation). For Linux users, Synergy bridges the gap between diverse operating systems by enabling cross-platform input sharing. It is important to use the latest stable release and to configure the synergy.conf file accurately, paying close attention to screen names and layout to avoid input conflicts and ensure a smooth user experience.

      Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

      What is Synergy and how does it work on Linux?
      Synergy is a software application that allows users to share a single mouse and keyboard across multiple computers, including Linux systems. It works by connecting the devices over a network, enabling seamless control without additional hardware.

      How do I install Synergy on a Linux machine?
      You can install Synergy on Linux by downloading the appropriate package from the official Synergy website or using your distribution’s package manager if available. Installation typically involves running commands such as `sudo apt install synergy` on Debian-based systems or compiling from source for other distributions.

      How do I configure Synergy to share a keyboard and mouse between Linux and other operating systems?
      Configuration requires setting one machine as the server (the one with the keyboard and mouse) and the others as clients. On Linux, you edit the Synergy configuration file or use the GUI to define screen names and their relative positions, then start the server and connect clients via the network.

      What are the common troubleshooting steps if Synergy does not connect on Linux?
      Ensure both devices are on the same network, verify firewall settings allow Synergy traffic, confirm correct screen names in the configuration, and check that the Synergy service is running on both server and client machines.

      Can Synergy work with Wayland on Linux?
      Synergy primarily supports X11 and may have limited or no support for Wayland depending on the Linux distribution and version. Users may need to use Xorg sessions for full Synergy functionality.

      Is it possible to secure Synergy connections on Linux?
      Yes, Synergy supports encrypted connections to protect data transmitted between devices. Enabling SSL encryption in the Synergy settings ensures secure communication over the network.
      Using Synergy on Linux provides a powerful and efficient way to share a single keyboard and mouse across multiple computers, enhancing productivity and streamlining workflows. The software operates by establishing a network connection between devices, allowing seamless control without the need for additional hardware. Setting up Synergy on Linux involves installing the appropriate packages, configuring server and client roles, and ensuring network permissions and firewall settings are correctly managed to enable smooth communication.

      Key considerations when using Synergy on Linux include compatibility with different desktop environments, managing security through encrypted connections, and troubleshooting common issues such as cursor lag or connection drops. Leveraging Synergy’s configuration files or graphical user interface tools can simplify the setup process, while understanding command-line options provides greater control for advanced users. Additionally, staying updated with the latest Synergy versions ensures access to improved features and stability enhancements.

      In summary, Synergy on Linux is an effective solution for users seeking to unify input devices across multiple systems. By carefully configuring the software and addressing network and security aspects, users can achieve a seamless and productive multi-computer environment. Mastery of Synergy’s setup and management on Linux ultimately leads to a more integrated and efficient computing experience.

      Author Profile

      Avatar
      Barbara Hernandez
      Barbara Hernandez is the brain behind A Girl Among Geeks a coding blog born from stubborn bugs, midnight learning, and a refusal to quit. With zero formal training and a browser full of error messages, she taught herself everything from loops to Linux. Her mission? Make tech less intimidating, one real answer at a time.

      Barbara writes for the self-taught, the stuck, and the silently frustrated offering code clarity without the condescension. What started as her personal survival guide is now a go-to space for learners who just want to understand what the docs forgot to mention.