Prepare for X-Win32 - the new X11 server software for Windows computers

Starnet X-Win32 will replace Exceed as the X11 Server software on Windows computers by February 2012. X11 Server software allows a Windows user to have a graphical user interface on a remote Linux server.

This change, initially motivated by a significant change of license conditions for Exceed, brings an easier integration of Windows and Linux logon mechanisms. At the same time, X-Win32 addresses the common use cases while providing a more intuitive configuration interface.

CERN Predefined Connections will be available as before. They offer an easy way of starting applications on LXPLUS using PuTTY or starting the KDE, GNOME or ICE window managers. Since X-Win32 is better integrated with SSH and CERN Kerberos compared to Exceed, it is much simpler to set up secure access to Linux services. The decision to choose X-Win32 as the new X11 software resulted from an evaluation that involved various user communities and support teams. More information, including the documented use cases, is available at https://www.cern.ch/winservices/Help/?kbid=030150

The migration path provides the time to use X-Win32 while Exceed is still available. As of January 10th, CMF will propose to install X-Win32 on those centrally managed computers where Exceed was previously installed. After you accept the installation prompt, CMF will install X-Win32 and you can start using it. If you encounter a problem, the Service Desk can assist you and you can fall back on using Exceed to carry on your work.

This transition phase will end at the end of February, when Exceed will be uninstalled from all NICE PCs. Please note that while X-Win32 and Exceed can be installed on the same computer, they should not be started at the same time.

Michal Kwiatek (IT-OIS)

by IT Department