How to Use Synergy on Linux

Using Synergy on Linux is a great way to control multiple computers with a single keyboard and mouse. If you work with more than one computer, Synergy helps you switch between them smoothly without extra hardware. I’ll guide you through the setup process and share tips to make it work perfectly on your Linux system.

Whether you want to control a Windows PC and a Linux machine or multiple Linux computers, Synergy makes it easy. You don’t need special cables or complicated setups. Just a network connection and some simple configuration will get you started. Let’s dive into how you can install, configure, and use Synergy on Linux.

What is Synergy and Why Use It on Linux?

Synergy is software that lets you share a single keyboard and mouse across multiple computers. It works over your local network, so you don’t need extra hardware like KVM switches. This is especially useful if you have a Linux desktop alongside other computers.

Here’s why Synergy is popular on Linux:

• Cross-platform support: Works on Linux, Windows, and macOS.
• Seamless control: Move your mouse cursor between screens as if they were connected.
• Clipboard sharing: Copy and paste text or files between machines.
• No extra hardware: Uses your existing network connection.
• Open-source options: There are free versions and forks available for Linux users.

Using Synergy on Linux can boost your productivity by reducing desk clutter and simplifying your workflow. You can control multiple machines without switching keyboards or mice.

Installing Synergy on Linux

Installing Synergy on Linux is straightforward but depends on your distribution. The official Synergy software is available for purchase, but there are free alternatives like Barrier, which is a fork of Synergy’s open-source version.

Installing Official Synergy

1. Download the Linux installer from the Synergy website.
2. Make the installer executable:

   chmod +x synergy-x.x.x-Linux-x86_64.run
   

3. Run the installer:

   ./synergy-x.x.x-Linux-x86_64.run
   

4. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation.

Installing Barrier (Free Alternative)

Barrier is a popular free alternative that works almost identically to Synergy.

• On Ubuntu/Debian:

  sudo apt install barrier
  

• On Fedora:

  sudo dnf install barrier
  

• On Arch Linux:

  sudo pacman -S barrier
  

Barrier is open-source and regularly updated, making it a great choice if you want a free solution.

Setting Up Synergy on Linux

After installation, you need to configure Synergy to share your keyboard and mouse between computers. One machine acts as the server (the one with the keyboard and mouse), and others act as clients.

Step 1: Decide Server and Client

• The server is the computer whose keyboard and mouse you want to share.
• The client is the computer you want to control remotely.

Step 2: Configure the Server

1. Open Synergy or Barrier on the server machine.
2. Choose Server mode.
3. You’ll see a grid representing your screens.
4. Drag and drop to arrange the client screens relative to the server screen.
5. Name each screen exactly as the hostname of the client machine.

Step 3: Configure the Client

1. Open Synergy or Barrier on the client machine.
2. Choose Client mode.
3. Enter the IP address or hostname of the server machine.
4. Start the client service.

Step 4: Start the Server

• On the server, start the Synergy or Barrier service.
• The client should connect automatically.
• You can now move your mouse across screens and share the keyboard.

Tips for Using Synergy Smoothly on Linux

Synergy works well, but a few tips can help you avoid common issues:

• Use static IPs or hostnames: This prevents connection problems if IP addresses change.
• Check firewall settings: Make sure ports 24800 (default) are open on both machines.
• Run Synergy with proper permissions: Sometimes running as root or with sudo helps avoid permission issues.
• Use clipboard sharing carefully: Large files may cause delays or errors.
• Keep software updated: Both Synergy and Barrier receive updates that fix bugs and improve compatibility.

Troubleshooting Common Synergy Issues on Linux

Sometimes Synergy might not work as expected. Here’s how to fix common problems:

Connection Problems

• Verify both machines are on the same network.
• Check firewall rules to allow Synergy traffic.
• Confirm the server IP or hostname is correct on the client.

Screen Not Switching

• Make sure screen names match the client hostnames.
• Check the screen layout in the server configuration.
• Restart both server and client services.

Clipboard Not Working

• Clipboard sharing can be disabled in settings; enable it.
• Restart Synergy services to refresh clipboard sync.
• Avoid copying very large files.

Permission Denied Errors

• Run Synergy with elevated privileges.
• Check if your user has access to input devices.

Advanced Synergy Features on Linux

Once you have the basics working, you can explore advanced features:

• SSL encryption: Secure your connection to prevent eavesdropping.
• Custom hotkeys: Switch screens or lock input with keyboard shortcuts.
• Multiple servers: Use Synergy in complex setups with more than one server.
• Logging: Enable detailed logs to diagnose issues.

These features help you tailor Synergy to your workflow and improve security.

Alternatives to Synergy on Linux

If Synergy or Barrier doesn’t meet your needs, here are some alternatives:

For Linux users, Barrier remains the best free alternative to Synergy.

How to Secure Synergy Connections on Linux

Since Synergy sends keyboard and mouse input over the network, security is important.

• Enable SSL encryption: Synergy supports SSL to encrypt data.
• Use a VPN: Running Synergy over a VPN adds a layer of security.
• Restrict firewall access: Only allow trusted IPs to connect.
• Keep software updated: Security patches are released regularly.

Taking these steps helps protect your input data from being intercepted.

Conclusion

Using Synergy on Linux is a smart way to control multiple computers with one keyboard and mouse. Whether you choose the official Synergy software or the free Barrier alternative, setup is simple and flexible. You just need to install the software, configure one machine as the server, and connect clients.

With Synergy, you can move your mouse across screens, share clipboards, and improve your productivity without extra hardware. Remember to secure your connection and troubleshoot common issues for the best experience. Give it a try, and you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it!

FAQs

How do I find my Linux hostname for Synergy setup?

Open a terminal and type hostname. Use this exact name when configuring screens in Synergy.

Can I use Synergy over the internet?

Synergy is designed for local networks. For internet use, set up a VPN or SSH tunnel to secure the connection.

Is Barrier fully compatible with Synergy?

Barrier is a fork of Synergy’s open-source code and works similarly, but some advanced Synergy features may be missing.

What ports does Synergy use on Linux?

By default, Synergy uses TCP port 24800. Ensure this port is open in your firewall.

Can I share clipboard data between Linux and Windows with Synergy?

Yes, Synergy supports clipboard sharing across different operating systems, including Linux and Windows.