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Edible Green Frogs | Lithobates Clamitans

In my entire life, most frogs that I encountered in the Philippines consists of brown to gray color. It's very rare to find green colored frogs in my hometown but I do not know in some other provinces of the country.

Scientists scientifically refers green frogs as "Lithobates Climatans". It is a sub-species of other green frogs known as the "bronze frog" and the "northern green frog".

According to some researchers, an adult green frog can grow at a length of about 5 to 10 centimeters and they could weigh about 28 to 85 grams. And here's the most interesting fact about them, females usually grow larger in size than their male counterpart.

Habitats and Food they Eat to Survive

There is really nothing special about green frogs as compared to the other ordinary species of frogs. They inhabit and thrive on places that offers them shallow freshwater such as ponds, lakes, swamps and streams.

During the day, they spend most of their time resting along the shore. Let your imagination work by thinking of them taking a very relaxing sun-bath. Whenever somebody approaches them, either a human or an animal, they will immediately leap and dive into the water.

When it comes to the food they eat, they actually prey on small creatures such as spiders, fish, tadpoles and snails.

Reproduction Process

Green frogs have a monthly season for reproduction which falls between April to August.

When a male and female green frog mates, the male will grasps the female with his forelimbs posterior. Once in their proper position, the female will release its eggs and simultaneously, the male will also release its sperms. The sperms will have to swim into the eggs and fertilization begins.

Assuming that the eggs have finally hatched, what comes out from them are green tadpoles. All frogs have to start from being a tadpole then they evolve into frogs as they mature. Male green frogs would take at least one year for them to become fully matured. But for the females, it takes them 2 to 3 years before they become sexually matured and ready to reproduce.

Green Frogs are Edible

Surprisingly, green frog is a good source of food in France even in the Philippines.

However, it requires knowledge and experience when it comes to identifying edible green frogs. Simply encountering and capturing any green colored frogs doesn't mean that they are edible just by simply basing it on their colors. There are actually other signs which can be used as a basis if the frog is edible or not.

Thus, if you do not know what you are doing then it's best to avoid attempting to eat green frogs as you might have caught the poisonous type. Otherwise, you should consult the expert to help you out with the identification process.

Remembering Our Pet Moning

This is a true and emotional story about a cat named Moning. It is a story about love, kindness, loss, and the painful reality of animal cruelty. This blog post is written to remember a loyal pet who became a real part of our family.

Meeting Moning: A Cat Who Felt Like Family

Back in the year 2001, our family had a cat named Moning. He was a male cat with beautiful golden fur that looked very similar to a tiger. His fur shined under the sunlight, and his eyes were full of life and curiosity.

What made Moning special was not only how he looked, but how he acted. Unlike other cats, Moning loved human attention. He enjoyed being carried and resting on someone’s lap.

Whenever someone sat on the couch, Moning would notice it right away. He would run toward that person and gently ask to be carried or placed on their lap. It felt like he trusted us completely.

My elder brother brought Moning home while I was already in my second year of college. From that day on, Moning became a permanent part of our household.

More Than a Pet: Moning as Our Protector

Moning was not just a loving cat. He was also very helpful around the house.

At that time, we had a problem with rats. They would enter the house and cause trouble. But when Moning arrived, everything changed.

He chased away the rats and kept our home clean and safe. Because of him, the rats slowly disappeared. He protected our house in his own simple way.

To us, Moning was not just a pet. He was a friend, a protector, and a family member.

The Bond I Had With Moning

I loved Moning very much. Even today, I still remember the feeling whenever I saw him nearby.

Every time I noticed Moning around, I could not resist patting his head. It became a habit. His fur felt warm and comforting.

Sometimes, when no one was looking, I would carry him like a baby in my arms. I knew it looked funny, and I got caught several times doing it. But I did not care. That was my way of showing love.

Moning never complained. He stayed calm, relaxed, and happy. It felt like he understood that he was loved.

Something Terrible Happened to Moning

In the year 2005, something terrible happened. One day, we found Moning badly injured.

Someone, possibly from our neighborhood, hurt him. It looked like a hard object was used to hit him.

Moning returned home in a very painful condition. He was struggling to walk, just like a drunk person trying to stand. His bones were broken, and he was bleeding badly.

This was not an accident. This was an act of animal cruelty.

The Moment That Broke Our Hearts

My younger brother informed me about Moning’s condition. As soon as I heard the news, I rushed outside to check on him.

When I saw Moning, my heart shattered.

He was barely standing. The moment he saw me, he collapsed.

His legs were broken. Worse than that, his head was badly injured. He was bleeding terribly, and one of his eyes was already coming out.

It was one of the most painful sights I have ever seen.

A Cat Who Came Home to Say Goodbye

When I looked into Moning’s eyes, I knew something important.

He knew that he was dying.

The injury probably happened several hours earlier. The person who hurt him may have thought he was already dead.

But Moning did not give up.

Despite the pain, he pushed himself to get up. He used his remaining strength to return home.

In my heart, I believe he did it to say his last goodbye.

Even in his final moments, he chose love over fear.

Moning’s Death and His Legacy

Moning passed away in January 2005. He was only five years old.

If I remember correctly, today marks his death anniversary.

Even after many years, the pain is still there. The memories remain strong.

Moning taught us about loyalty, love, and trust. He showed us that animals feel pain, emotions, and affection just like humans.

Animal Cruelty Is a Serious Crime

What happened to Moning was not right.

Animal cruelty is a serious issue that still happens today. Animals cannot defend themselves or speak for justice.

People who hurt animals show a lack of compassion and humanity.

To the person who did this cruel act, justice may not have come immediately. But every action has consequences.

Kindness matters. Cruelty leaves scars—not just on animals, but on people too.

Why Stories Like This Matter

Sharing stories like Moning’s is important.

It reminds people to treat animals with respect and care. It raises awareness about animal abuse and cruelty.

Pets give us unconditional love. They ask for nothing in return except kindness.

We owe it to them to protect and respect their lives.

Remembering Moning

There is a photo of Moning stored on my computer. Whenever I see it, memories come flooding back.

I remember his golden fur. His calm behavior. His love for resting on laps.

I still miss Moning.

This blog post is for him.

Rest in peace, Moning. You will never be forgotten.

Drinking a Herbal Tea

Many people around the world start their day with a hot cup of coffee. The smell of coffee in the morning feels comforting, especially on cold days. However, according to some health experts, many commercial coffee products contain unhealthy ingredients. Drinking too much coffee can lead to serious health problems over time.

In this blog post, we will talk about the possible dangers of drinking too much coffee and why herbal tea can be a much better and healthier choice.

The Hidden Dangers of Commercial Coffee

Commercial coffee is not just made from coffee beans. Many products sold in stores contain added chemicals, artificial flavors, preservatives, and too much caffeine. These ingredients may taste good, but they can be harmful to the body when consumed often.

Health experts say that too much coffee intake can cause several side effects. One of the most common problems is insomnia. Insomnia means having trouble sleeping. When you drink coffee late in the day, your body stays awake longer than it should.

Another common side effect is nervousness. Too much caffeine can make you feel shaky, restless, and anxious. Some people also experience stomach upset, nausea, and even pain in the stomach after drinking strong coffee.

In worse cases, too much coffee can increase both the heart rate and breathing rate. This can be dangerous, especially for people with heart problems or high blood pressure.

Aside from these health risks, coffee is also very addictive. Many people feel tired, angry, or have headaches when they skip their daily coffee. This is a sign that the body has become dependent on caffeine.

Why Many People Still Love Coffee

Despite the health risks, many people still love coffee. One reason is that coffee gives quick energy. It helps people feel awake and focused, especially in the early morning.

Another reason is habit. Many people have been drinking coffee for years. It becomes part of their daily routine. The smell, taste, and warmth of coffee bring comfort.

However, comfort should not come at the cost of health. That is why many people are now looking for healthier alternatives.

Herbal Tea: A Healthy Substitute for Coffee

If you really enjoy drinking something hot in the morning, you can substitute coffee with herbal tea. In fact, health experts say it is even better if you permanently replace coffee with herbal tea.

Unlike coffee, herbal tea is made from natural plants, leaves, flowers, roots, and spices. It usually does not contain caffeine, which makes it safer for daily use.

Herbal tea is not just a drink. Many people consider it a natural health medicine.

Health Benefits of Herbal Tea

Herbal tea offers countless health benefits. These benefits have been known for many years and are still trusted today.

One major benefit is that herbal tea can help relieve insomnia. Because most herbal teas do not have caffeine, they help the body relax and sleep better.

Herbal tea can also calm an upset stomach. Some herbs help reduce bloating, gas, and stomach pain.

Another benefit is that herbal tea can help fight viruses and prevent infections. Many herbs have natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that help protect the body.

Some herbal teas help boost the immune system, improve digestion, reduce stress, and even support heart health.

In short, herbal tea is a powerful health drink that supports the body in many ways.

Herbal Tea in Ancient Times

Herbal tea is not something new. In the past, people from different parts of the world used herbs and spices to improve the taste of their food and drinks.

More importantly, they used herbs to protect themselves from diseases and to heal their bodies. Long before modern medicine existed, people relied on nature for health and survival.

Different cultures had their own herbal traditions. These traditions were passed down from generation to generation.

A Personal Experience with Herbal Tea

My mother loves drinking herbal tea. Around our house, she has many different plants that she uses for making herbal drinks.

I am not very familiar with all their names yet, so I still need to ask her about them. However, I have tasted her herbal tea many times, and it tastes good.

Every morning, she prepares herbal tea for us to share and drink together. It has become a healthy family habit.

Drinking herbal tea in the morning feels relaxing. It warms the body and makes you feel calm and refreshed without the nervous feeling that coffee sometimes causes.

Be Careful When Trying Herbal Tea

Even though herbal tea has many benefits, you should still be careful. When someone tells you that a certain plant can be used as herbal tea, you should not try it right away.

Some plants can be harmful if used incorrectly. That is why it is important to educate yourself about the herb first.

The best thing to do is to consult herbal practitioners, naturopathic doctors, or homeopathic doctors. This is very important, especially if you are taking prescription medication.

Some herbs may interact with medicines and cause unwanted effects. Safety should always come first.

Why Herbal Tea Is a Better Long-Term Choice

Replacing coffee with herbal tea is not just a small change. It is a lifestyle improvement.

Herbal tea is gentle on the body, non-addictive, and full of natural benefits. It supports long-term health instead of causing stress to the body.

By choosing herbal tea, you reduce the risk of insomnia, anxiety, stomach problems, and caffeine addiction.

It is a simple habit that can lead to a healthier and more peaceful life.

Final Thoughts

Coffee may feel good at first, but too much of it can harm your health. Herbal tea is a natural, safe, and powerful alternative.

If you love warm drinks in the morning, consider switching to herbal tea. Your body will thank you in the long run.

Always remember to stay informed, choose natural options, and take care of your health every day.

Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort Asin Review

Planning a family swimming trip in Benguet? Many travelers look for a peaceful place where they can relax, enjoy nature, and cool down or warm up in a swimming pool. One place that often comes up in online searches is Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort located in Asin, Nangalisan, Tuba, Benguet.

In this blog post, I will share an honest and detailed personal experience about visiting Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort with my family. This will help you decide if this resort is right for you and your family.

Our Family Trip to Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort

On January 2, 2014, my family and our relatives from the Balay-as family decided to go on a swimming vacation. We wanted to spend time together, relax, and enjoy the day after the holidays.

At first, we planned to go to a place called River View. However, our driver told us that the place would most likely be very crowded. Because of that, he suggested another destination instead, which was Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort.

The resort is located in Asin, Nangalisan, Tuba, Benguet. This area is known for mountain views and fresh air, which is why many people visit resorts around Benguet.

Arrival and Entrance Fee

When we arrived at Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort, we were welcomed by a security guard at the entrance. We immediately asked if they had a hot spring swimming pool. The guard answered yes without hesitation.

Because of that answer, we decided to go in right away. We paid the entrance fee, which was PHP 100 per person. At that time, the price felt reasonable for a family swimming resort in Benguet.

After paying, we entered the resort and started looking around to see what the place had to offer.

Positive Review: What We Liked About the Resort

Beautiful Mountain Views

One of the first things you will notice when you enter Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort is the view. You can see mountains around the area, which gives a relaxing and natural feeling.

However, if you are from Baguio City or other parts of the Cordillera region, you might not be very impressed. People who live in these areas are already used to seeing mountains every day.

Multiple Swimming Pools for Different Ages

One good thing about the resort is that it has three main swimming pools, each made for different age groups.

Children’s Pool – This pool is designed for small kids. It is shallow and safer for young swimmers.
Middle Pool – This pool is for teens or people who do not want very deep water.
Adult Pool – This pool is deeper and meant for adults.

There is also a fourth pool that is mainly for professional swimmers. This pool is used for lap swimming and is not ideal for casual swimmers or children.

Because of these different pools, families with kids of different ages can choose where they feel most comfortable swimming.

Negative Review: Problems We Experienced

While there were some good points, there were also serious issues that made the experience disappointing.

The Pool Is Not Really a Hot Spring

The biggest problem is the claim that the resort is a hot spring. Based on personal experience, the pools are not truly hot spring pools.

I know this because I have already visited real hot spring pools in other parts of Benguet. There is a clear difference between natural hot spring water and regular pool water.

At Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort, only the children’s pool felt warm. Even then, it was doubtful if the warmth came from a real hot spring source. It could have been just a water heater.

Adult Pool Was Very Cold

The adult pool was extremely cold. The water was so cold that you would not want to fully submerge your body.

Ironically, the air above the water felt warmer than the pool itself. This made swimming very uncomfortable.

When I tried swimming, I only lasted about five minutes before I started shivering badly. It was not enjoyable at all.

If you strongly believe in “mind over matter,” you might last longer. But for most people, the cold water will be a big problem.

Unprofessional Behavior from Staff

Another negative experience involved the behavior of one male employee, who appeared to be a lifeguard. He was wearing a dark blue shirt and holding a cleaning net.

While walking around the pool area, I noticed a family arguing with this employee. Out of curiosity, I moved closer to understand what was happening.

The family was complaining that the pool was not hot, even though the resort claimed it was a hot spring. This complaint was valid.

Unfortunately, the employee responded very badly. He spoke to the guests in a rude and disrespectful manner.

This raised an important question: What happened to customer rights? Customers should be treated with respect, especially when they are expressing honest concerns.

Strict Rules on Swimming Attire

Another thing to note is that the resort is very strict when it comes to swimming attire. If staff say that your clothing is not allowed, you must follow their rules.

If you do not have extra swimming clothes in your bag, you may not be allowed to swim. This can be inconvenient for some visitors.

Overall Verdict: Is Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort Worth Visiting?

Based on our experience, Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort is not a real hot spring resort. The name can be misleading for travelers who are specifically looking for hot spring water.

However, if you simply want a place with swimming pools and you do not mind cold water, then this resort might still be okay for you.

This place may be suitable for:

People who enjoy cold swimming pools
Families who want a simple swimming trip
Visitors who follow rules strictly and avoid conflicts

But if you are looking for a true hot spring experience, this may not be the right place for you.

Tips Before You Visit Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort

Do not expect real hot spring water
Bring proper swimming attire
Prepare for cold water, especially in adult pools
Be patient and respectful when dealing with staff
Manage your expectations before visiting

Final Thoughts

Palm Grove Hot Spring Resort has both good and bad points. The mountain views and multiple pools are nice, but the misleading hot spring claim and staff attitude are major downsides.

Always remember that reading honest reviews like this can help you avoid disappointment and plan better trips for your family.

If you want a peaceful swim and do not care about hot spring water, this resort may still work for you. Otherwise, you may want to explore other options in Benguet.

BDO Online Account Recovery

Online banking is very helpful, especially when you want to check your account balance without going out. It saves time, effort, and money. But sometimes, problems happen. In this blog post, I will share my real experience on how my BDO online banking account got blocked, why it happened, and how I was able to recover it step by step—even though my registered mobile number had already expired.

This guide is written in simple words so anyone can understand it easily, even if you are not very good with technology.

Why Online Banking Is Important

Online banking allows you to check your account balance, monitor deposits, and manage your money anytime and anywhere. You no longer need to travel to the city or wait in long lines just to check if your money has already been credited.

For people who live far from banks, online banking is very useful. That is why losing access to an online banking account can be stressful and frustrating.

The First Problem: Being Asked to Call Customer Support

The last time I tried to access my BDO online banking account, the system asked me to call customer support using their hotline number. At that time, I had no mobile load balance, so I could not make the call.

Since I did not urgently need to check my account back then, I decided to leave it as it was and did not continue trying to access my account.

This decision later became part of the problem.

Why I Needed to Access My BDO Account Again

After some time, I needed to check my BDO account again. I wanted to see if a deposited amount was already credited. Online banking is very helpful for this because it removes the hassle of traveling just to check your balance.

However, there was another problem. The original mobile number registered on my BDO account had already expired. I no longer had access to that number.

Expired Mobile Number: A Big Problem

Banks usually send confirmation codes or security PINs to your registered mobile number. Since my old number was already expired, I knew this would cause trouble.

I tried to use my new mobile number to contact customer support instead. But before calling, I decided to try accessing the BDO website again after almost eight months.

Using the “Forgot Password” Option

When I visited the BDO website, I clicked on the “Forgot Password” option. I hoped this would help me recover my account.

Instead, I was informed that my account had been blocked. The system also said that a message had been sent to my registered email address.

At that moment, I felt both worried and relieved. I was worried because my account was blocked, but I was relieved because my email address was still active and accessible.

Waiting for the Recovery Email

The recovery email did not arrive immediately. I waited for a couple of hours, checking and refreshing my inbox again and again.

During that time, I started to lose hope. I thought maybe I would need to visit a branch or make several phone calls to fix the problem.

But after several hours of waiting, the email finally arrived.

Simple Steps to Recover a Blocked BDO Account

When I opened the email, I was surprised at how simple the recovery process was.

The email provided a temporary password. This temporary password allowed me to log in to my BDO online banking account.

Once logged in, I was required to change the temporary password to a new one.

Important Password Rules

You cannot reuse any password you have used before.
Your new password must be completely different.
This rule is for security purposes.

After changing my password, my access to the account was restored.

Why My BDO Account Was Blocked

Later on, I found out the reason why my BDO online banking account was blocked.

According to their rules, users are required to change their online banking password every three months.

I failed to do this, which caused the system to automatically block my account for security reasons.

This rule is clearly written in their terms and conditions, but many users forget about it.

Accessing My Account Again

After completing all the steps, I was finally able to access my BDO online banking account again.

I checked my balance with ease, without going out or lining up at a branch.

It felt good knowing that the problem was solved without much hassle.

The Remaining Problem: Old Mobile Number

Even though I regained access to my account, there was still one problem left.

The system still sends confirmation PINs to my old mobile number before allowing full access.

Since that number no longer exists, I needed another way to confirm my identity.

Using the Challenge Question as an Alternative

Thankfully, there is an alternative option.

Instead of receiving a confirmation PIN through SMS, the system allows you to answer a challenge question.

This is what I am currently using to access my account.

This feature is very helpful for users who no longer have access to their old registered mobile numbers.

Important Lessons I Learned

Always keep your registered mobile number active.
Change your online banking password every three months.
Make sure your email address is updated and accessible.
Do not panic if your account gets blocked.

Most problems can be solved online if you follow the instructions carefully.

Final Thoughts

Recovering a blocked BDO online banking account may sound scary at first, but it is actually very manageable.

As long as you still have access to your registered email, you can recover your account without visiting a branch.

Online banking is meant to make life easier. Understanding how it works and following security rules can save you from stress in the future.

I hope this blog post helps others who are experiencing the same problem.

Withdrawing BDO Cash from an ATM Machine

Using an ATM machine for the first time can feel scary, especially if you are new to banking or you do not often withdraw money by yourself. If you are in Baguio City and you want to know how to withdraw cash from a BDO ATM machine, this guide is made just for you.

We will also talk about where you can find BDO ATM machines in Baguio and what you should do step by step.

BDO ATM Locations in Baguio City

In Baguio City, there are only a few BDO ATM machines that many people are familiar with. Knowing where they are located will save you time and effort.

1. BDO ATM at Abanao Street

One BDO ATM machine is located along Abanao Street. This ATM is outside the mall, not inside. Many people miss it because they expect it to be inside the shopping center, but it is actually placed outdoors.

Because it is outside, it is best to be extra careful when withdrawing money here, especially at night or when there are many people around.

2. BDO ATM at SM Mall Baguio

Another BDO ATM machine can be found at SM Mall Baguio. It is located near the main entrance of the mall. You will see it together with other ATM machines from different banks.

This location is usually safer because it is inside a busy area with guards and many people around.

Things You Must Prepare Before Using a BDO ATM

Before you go to an ATM machine, there are a few important things you must prepare. This will help avoid problems and stress.

Your BDO ATM card
Your secret PIN (Personal Identification Number)
Enough balance in your bank account

If you forget your PIN or your account has no money, you will not be able to withdraw cash.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Withdraw Cash from a BDO ATM

Below is a very easy step-by-step guide on how to withdraw cash from a BDO ATM machine. Just follow each step slowly.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Bank Account Has Money

This is the most important step. You cannot withdraw cash if your account balance is zero. If you are not sure how much money you have, you can first choose the option to check your balance at the ATM.

Always remember: no money in the account means no cash from the ATM.

Step 2: Insert Your BDO ATM Card into the Card Slot

Look for the card slot on the ATM machine. Slowly insert your BDO ATM card into the slot.

Some beginners get confused because the card must be inserted the correct way. If the machine does not accept your card, do not panic. Just pull it out and try flipping it to the other side.

Never force your card into the machine.

Step 3: Enter Your Secret PIN

Once the ATM accepts your card, the screen will ask you to enter your PIN. This PIN is secret and should never be shared with anyone.

When typing your PIN, it is best to cover the keypad with your hand. This protects you from people who may try to look at your PIN.

If you enter the wrong PIN several times, the ATM may block your card. So take your time and be careful.

Step 4: Choose from the Menu Options

After entering your PIN correctly, the ATM screen will show different options. Look for the option that says “Withdraw Cash”.

Press the button next to that option to continue.

Step 5: Enter the Amount You Want to Withdraw

Next, the ATM will ask how much money you want to withdraw. You can choose from the preset amounts or type a specific amount.

Make sure the amount you choose is not higher than your available balance.

Step 6: Take Your Money and Receipt

After confirming the details, the ATM machine will release the cash. Carefully take your money from the slot.

Do not forget to take your receipt if you need it for records. Also, make sure you take back your ATM card before leaving.

Important Safety Tips When Using an ATM

Using an ATM is generally safe, but you still need to be careful. Here are some simple safety tips:

Do not share your PIN with anyone
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN
Avoid using ATMs late at night if possible
Check your surroundings before withdrawing
Do not accept help from strangers

Common Problems Beginners Face at ATMs

ATM Did Not Release Cash

Sometimes the ATM may have a problem and not release cash. If this happens, keep your receipt and contact your bank immediately.

Card Was Inserted the Wrong Way

This is very common for beginners. Just remove the card and try inserting it again correctly.

Forgotten PIN

If you forget your PIN, do not keep guessing. Visit your bank branch and ask for assistance.

Why Learning How to Use an ATM Is Important

Knowing how to use an ATM gives you freedom and confidence. You do not need to rely on others to get your own money.

It also saves time because you can withdraw cash anytime without lining up inside a bank.

Final Thoughts

Withdrawing money from a BDO ATM in Baguio City is very easy once you understand the steps. You just need to stay calm, follow the instructions on the screen, and always keep your information safe.

If you are a beginner, do not be embarrassed. Everyone starts somewhere, and practice will make you more confident.

We hope this guide helps you withdraw cash smoothly and safely.

How Do You Install Ubuntu 12.04 (Linux) into a VPS Server

Many people today are looking for a cheap VPS to use for learning, testing, hosting small projects, or running simple servers. Most low-cost VPS providers offer Linux-based operating systems such as Ubuntu, CentOS, Fedora, and other similar systems. These Linux VPS plans are usually cheaper than Windows VPS plans and are very powerful.

Recently, I found a new VPS provider offering prices between $2 to $5 per month. Because they were running a monthly promotion, I bought one VPS for only $2.5 for one month just to test it. This is a very good deal, especially for beginners who want to learn Linux without spending much money.

However, it had been a long time since I last used Linux as my main operating system. Because of this, I almost forgot how to install programs and properly set up a Linux server. At first, I even faced problems installing Linux on my VPS. It took me almost a full day to understand what was wrong. But after some patience and learning, I finally installed it successfully.

In this guide, I will show you step by step how to install and access an Ubuntu Linux desktop on a VPS using SSH and VNC.

Why Use Ubuntu on a Cheap VPS?

Ubuntu is one of the most popular Linux operating systems in the world. It is stable, secure, free, and has a very large community. This means you can easily find help online if you encounter problems.

Most cheap VPS providers support Ubuntu because it:

Uses fewer system resources
Runs well on low RAM servers
Is perfect for web servers and testing
Works great with SSH and VNC

Even if your VPS has limited memory, Ubuntu can still work well when configured correctly.

Step 1: Access Your VPS Using SSH

The first thing you need is a way to access your VPS console. Most VPS providers give you a web-based console inside their control panel. But another very popular and reliable option is using a free program called PuTTY.

PuTTY is an SSH client that allows you to connect to your VPS from your computer. You can download it for free from its official website.

After installing PuTTY, open it and enter the following details:

Host Name: Your VPS IP address
Connection Type: SSH
Port: 22 (default)

Once everything is correct, click Open and log in using your VPS username and password.

Step 2: Update Your Ubuntu System

After logging in, the first thing you should always do is update your system. This ensures that all software lists are up to date.

sudo apt-get update

This command refreshes your package list and prepares your system for new installations.

Step 3: Install a Lightweight Desktop (GNOME Core)

By default, a VPS does not have a graphical interface. To access it visually, we need to install a desktop environment.

We will use GNOME Core instead of the full GNOME desktop because it uses less memory. This is important for cheap VPS servers.

sudo apt-get install gnome-core

During installation, you will be asked to select your keyboard layout. Just choose the layout you normally use and continue.

Step 4: Install VNC Server

Now we need a way to connect to the desktop remotely. For this, we will use VNC.

sudo apt-get install vnc4server

This installs the VNC server software on your VPS.

Step 5: Set Your VNC Password

Once VNC is installed, you need to create a password. This password will be used when connecting to your VPS desktop.

vncserver

After entering your password, Ubuntu is almost ready. However, we still need to make some important changes.

Step 6: Kill the VNC Session

Before making changes, we need to stop the current VNC session.

vncserver -kill :1

This command safely closes the session so we can edit configuration files.

Step 7: Edit the VNC Startup File

Now we need to tell VNC how to start the desktop environment. Open the startup file using this command:

vi ~/.vnc/xstartup

Delete all existing content inside the file and paste the following:

#!/bin/sh
unset SESSION_MANAGER
gnome-session --session=gnome-classic &

[ -x /etc/vnc/xstartup ] && exec /etc/vnc/xstartup
[ -r $HOME/.Xresources ] && xrdb $HOME/.Xresources
xsetroot -solid grey
vncconfig -iconic &

Save the file and exit the editor.

Step 8: Reduce Memory Usage (Important for Cheap VPS)

GNOME can use a lot of memory. To fix this, we need to edit a configuration file.

sudo vi /etc/init/gdm.conf

Look for the following lines and comment them out by adding a # at the beginning:

#start on ((filesystem
# and runlevel [!06]
# and started dbus
# and (drm-device-added card0 PRIMARY_DEVICE_FOR_DISPLAY=1
# or stopped udev-fallback-graphics))
# or runlevel PREVLEVEL=S)

This helps reduce unnecessary processes and saves memory.

Step 9: Create a New VNC Session

Now it is time to create your final VNC session.

vncserver -geometry 1024x600

This sets the screen size and starts your desktop session.

Step 10: Connect Using a VNC Client

To access your VPS desktop, install a VNC client on your computer. Popular options include:

TightVNC
RealVNC

Enter your VPS IP address followed by the display number (example: IP:1). Use the password you created earlier.

You should now see your Ubuntu desktop running on your VPS.

How to Create a Normal User in Ubuntu

Using the root user all the time is not recommended. It is safer to create a normal user.

Open PuTTY again and run the following command:

adduser normaluser

Replace normaluser with your preferred username.

Then give the user sudo rights:

sudo adduser normaluser sudo

Now your user can run admin commands safely.

Final Thoughts

Congratulations! You have successfully installed Ubuntu Linux on a cheap VPS with a working desktop environment. This method works not only for Ubuntu 12.04 but also for many other Ubuntu versions.

This setup is perfect for beginners who want to learn Linux, test software, or run small projects without spending much money. With patience and the right steps, anyone can do it.