If you have installed Ubuntu on an ESXi VM and are frustrated by the lack of audio when connecting via Remote Desktop (xRDP), you aren't alone. By default, xRDP doesn't include the audio sink modules needed to stream sound to your local machine.
The most reliable fix is using the xRDP Installer script maintained by the team at C-Nergy. This script detects your Ubuntu version and automatically compiles the necessary PulseAudio or PipeWire modules for you.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure your system is up to date and you have "Source Code" repositories enabled in your Software & Updates settings. This is required for the script to download the necessary build files.
The Reliable Fix (Script Method)
This script will automatically detect your Ubuntu version, download the correct PulseAudio or PipeWire sources, and compile the modules for you.
Download the script:
Bash
wget https://www.c-nergy.be/downloads/xRDP/xrdp-installer-1.5.5.zip
Extract it:
Bash
sudo apt install unzip -y
unzip xrdp-installer-1.5.5.zip
Make it executable:
Bash
chmod +x xrdp-installer-1.5.5.sh
Run it with the sound switch: (Run this as your normal user, not as root/sudo directly—the script will ask for your password when it needs it).
Bash
./xrdp-installer-1.5.5.sh -s
This is what you should see on the Output Devices tab.
