Run OBS Headless on a Linux VPS: Xvfb + Remote Control

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How to run OBS without a desktop on a Linux VPS using Xvfb and remote control methods for 24/7 streams

Written by Jochem – Infrastructure Expert – 5-10 years experience in game server hosting, VPS infrastructure, and 24/7 streaming solutions. Read author bio →

Run OBS Headless on a Linux VPS: Xvfb + Remote Control

obs headless linux vps xvfb remote control

OBS is a GUI app, but you can run it on a VPS without a full desktop.

Terminal setup

Table of Contents

  1. Why go headless
  2. Xvfb basics
  3. OBS configuration
  4. Remote control options
  5. Hosting and uptime

1. Why go headless

Less overhead, fewer crashes, better security.

2. Xvfb basics

Create a virtual display for OBS to run on.

3. OBS configuration

Set your scenes and outputs carefully.

4. Remote control options

Use obs-websocket or scripts to control.

5. Hosting and uptime

Use a Streaming VPS for consistent bandwidth.

Jochem

About the Author

Jochem – Infrastructure Expert – Expert in game server hosting, VPS infrastructure, and 24/7 streaming solutions with 5-10 years experience.

Since 2023
500+ servers hosted
4.8/5 avg rating

I specialize in Minecraft, FiveM, Rust, and 24/7 streaming infrastructure, operating enterprise-grade AMD Ryzen 9 hardware in Netherlands datacenters.

View my full bio and credentials →

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Run OBS Headless on a Linux VPS: Xvfb + Remote Control