How to access Rust Desk virtual desktop on headless DietPi Native PC?

Creating a bug report/issue

I have searched the existing open and closed issues

I’m trying to set up Rust Desk access on a headless x86_64 Mini PC with DietPi v10.4.2 for occasional remote desktop access. Ideally, I’d like use Rust Desk in conjunction with Tailscale for a direct IP connection, but want to set up a basic Rust Desk connection first before including Tailscale. I can connect to Rust Desk and log in just fine IF a monitor is connected to the DietPi, but receive a “no displays” error on my Rust Desk client when I try to connect to a headless DietPi (normal operation).

I imagine I can buy a dummy plug (VGA, in this case) to simulate a connected monitor, but want to avoid that. Is there a setting that will simulate a connected monitor for Rust Desk to work?

On a related note, I installed the TigerVNC server on DietPi and can connect remotely using a VNC client after manually starting the TigerVNC server on the headless DietPi. So, the TigerVNC server doesn’t appear to need a connected physical monitor.

Required Information

  • DietPi version | 10.4.2
  • Distro version | trixie
  • Kernel version | Linux DietPi 6.12.88+deb13-amd64 #1 SMP PREEMPT_DYNAMIC Debian 6.12.88-1 (2026-05-15) x86_64 GNU/Linux
  • Architecture | amd64
  • SBC model | echo $G_HW_MODEL_NAME or (EG: RPi3)
  • Power supply used | (EG: 5V 1A RAVpower)
  • SD card used | (EG: SanDisk ultra)

Additional Information (if applicable)

  • Software title | Rust Desk v1.4.6
  • Was the software title installed freshly or updated/migrated?
  • Can this issue be replicated on a fresh installation of DietPi?
    ← If you sent a “dietpi-bugreport”, please paste the ID here →
  • Bug report ID | echo $G_HW_UUID

Steps to reproduce

Expected behaviour

Actual behaviour

Extra details