Kasm Workspaces

What is Kasm Workspaces?

Kasm Workspaces is a containerized desktop and application streaming platform designed for secure remote access. It uses Docker containers to provide isolated, browser-based environments for applications, desktops, and development tools. Kasm is highly scalable, customizable, and ideal for use cases such as:

  • Remote work
  • Software development
  • Cybersecurity

With robust security and high performance, it is an excellent solution for organizations and individuals seeking secure, remote access to computing resources.

Key Terms Explained

Term Definition
Kasm Workspaces A platform for securely streaming desktops and applications via a web browser.
Containerized Running applications in isolated, lightweight environments (containers) for consistency and security.
Streaming Delivering applications or desktops over the internet without requiring downloads or installations.
Platform A system or environment where software or applications are built and run.
Docker A tool for creating and managing containers to deploy software.
Browser-based Accessible through a web browser without additional software installation.
Scalable Able to handle increased workloads by adding resources without performance loss.
Customizable Configurable to meet specific needs or preferences.
Remote Work Performing work outside a traditional office environment, enabled by online tools.
Cybersecurity Protecting systems, networks, and data from digital threats.

How Can Kasm Help Bypass Censorship?

By setting up Kasm Workspaces on a remote Virtual Private Server (VPS), users can bypass censorship effectively. Kasm provides encrypted, browser-based access to applications, making it difficult for censors to track your activities. Unlike standard web proxies, Kasm enables access to full tools such as Visual Studio Code or a terminal remotely.

Advantages:

  • Encryption: Secure and private communication.
  • Versatility: Remote access to full applications and development tools.
  • Stealth: Activities appear as regular web browsing to observers.

Limitations:

  • No GPU Acceleration: Kasm doesn't support GPU-intensive tasks.
  • Limited Graphics Performance: Pre-rendered graphics on the server can result in slow performance, making it unsuitable for streaming videos or gaming.

Kasm Workspaces Setup

Prerequisites:

  • A domain name
  • A Linux VPS with port 443 forwarded
  • Basic command-line skills
  • Root access

Step 1: Become Root

Run the following command to switch to the root user:

sudo -s

Step 2: Install Kasm Workspaces

Execute this command to download and install Kasm:

cd /tmp && curl -O https://kasm-static-content.s3.amazonaws.com/kasm_release_1.13.1.421524.tar.gz && tar -xf kasm_release_1.13.1.421524.tar.gz && bash kasm_release/install.sh

During the installation, you will need to agree to the End User License Agreement (EULA). After installation, Kasm will provide credentials such as the admin username and password. Save this information in a secure location.

Step 3: Verify Installation

Visit your server's IP address in a browser using HTTPS. For example:

https://<your-server-ip>

You should see a warning screen about an untrusted certificate. Proceed to the site.

Untrusted Certificate Screen

Step 4: Configure SSL with Let’s Encrypt

  1. Stop Kasm: bash /opt/kasm/bin/stop

  2. Install Let’s Encrypt: (Assumes you're using a Debian-based distribution) bash apt -y install letsencrypt && cd /opt/kasm/current/certs

  3. Obtain an SSL Certificate: Replace example.com with your domain name: bash certbot certonly --standalone --agree-tos --preferred-challenges http -d example.com

  4. Backup Existing Certificates: bash mv kasm_nginx.crt kasm_nginx.crt.bk && mv kasm_nginx.key kasm_nginx.key.bk

  5. Set Up Symlinks for Certificates: bash ln -s /etc/letsencrypt/live/example.com/privkey.pem kasm_nginx.key ln -s /etc/letsencrypt/live/example.com/fullchain.pem kasm_nginx.crt

  6. Restart Kasm: bash /opt/kasm/bin/start

Step 5: Access Kasm Workspaces

Go to your domain name in a browser and log in using the credentials provided during installation. Your Kasm Workspaces environment is now ready to use!