/usr/bin/viewglob is a wrapper for vgd and vgseer (client and daemon, respectively). Generally speaking, this is what you want to execute from your shell. Should you prefer to start viewglob with each shell session, try something like this: if [[ ! $VG_VIEWGLOB_ACTIVE && $DISPLAY ]] ; then exec viewglob fi Have a look at http://viewglob.sourceforge.net/faq.html for a few more viewglob tricks. There are some known bugs in viewglob with screen. Exercise some caution and take results with a pinch of salt if you try the two together.