Advanced: CaptureGem Headless Guide (Linux & Windows) guide illustration
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Advanced: CaptureGem Headless Guide (Linux & Windows)

Table of Contents

For serious archives, running a GUI-based app on a desktop is inefficient. A “Headless” setup—where the app runs on a dedicated server without a monitor—allows for 24/7 uptime and isolates the recording load from your primary workstation.

1) Environment Setup

Windows Server / Headless Windows

Most users opt for a minimal Windows 10/11 installation or Windows Server.

  • Hardware: Ensure your server has a dedicated GPU if you plan to record more than 5 streams.
  • OS: Use a “Ghost” or “Tiny” ISO to strip away unnecessary background services (telemetry, updates, print spoolers).

Linux (Ubuntu/Debian)

CaptureGem’s recording engine can be run on Linux via a minimal X-Server or through the recorderd binary.

  • Dependencies: Install ffmpeg, libvpx, and libx264 via your package manager.

2) Accessing the UI (VNC / RDP)

Since there is no physical monitor, you must use a remote desktop protocol to configure your initial Auto-Record filters.

  • Windows: Enable Remote Desktop (RDP). Pro Tip: Use a “Virtual Display Driver” to simulate a 1080p monitor so the GUI renders correctly.
  • Linux: Install tigervnc or anydesk.

3) CLI & Service Usage

The core recording engine is a separate process. You can trigger it directly from the command line for automated workflows.

  • Start Service: capturegem-service --headless --config=/path/to/config.json
  • Monitor Logs: Use tail -f logs/latest.log to watch for connection drops or successful captures in real-time.

4) Resource Management (The “100% Rule”)

In a headless environment, the goal is to dedicate 100% of the system resources to Network I/O and Disk Write.

  • Disable GUI: Once Auto-Mode is configured, close the main window and let the service run in the background.
  • Network Priority: Use tc (Linux) or “Quality of Service” (Windows) to prioritize CaptureGem packets over system updates.
  • Disk Management: Map a NAS or External Drive as a local mount point to ensure high-speed data transfer.

Summary

Headless recording is the gold standard for high-volume collectors. It requires more initial setup but provides unmatched stability for long-term archiving.

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