Secure remote PC unlock for Apollo users

Problem Context

Remote workers using Apollo (a Sunshine fork) must manually unlock their Windows PC to launch apps, breaking their workflow. They rely on WireGuard VPN for security but can’t use auto-logon features because they prefer keeping their PC locked for privacy. Every remote session starts with a manual login, wasting time and disrupting productivity.

Pain Points

Users try regedit hacks or auto-logon tools, but these either compromise security or don’t work with VPNs. The current workaround—manually unlocking the PC—adds 5+ minutes to every remote session. Apollo’s ‘When Connected’ feature could automate this, but no tool securely bridges the gap between Apollo and Windows lock screen while respecting VPN security.

Impact

Wasted time adds up to hours per week, and the manual process increases the risk of forgetting to lock the PC. For power users, this disrupts critical workflows like launching apps, checking servers, or accessing sensitive data. The frustration grows with each remote session, making the tool feel unreliable.

Urgency

This isn’t just an inconvenience—it’s a daily blocker for remote workers. Without a fix, users either accept the time waste or risk security by using insecure auto-logon methods. The problem escalates when remote work is mission-critical, like managing servers or handling client requests.

Target Audience

Power users of Apollo/Sunshine, IT admins managing remote workstations, and security-conscious remote workers who use WireGuard VPN. This affects anyone who relies on remote desktop software but needs to keep their PC locked for privacy, including freelancers, developers, and small business owners.

Solution Approach

A lightweight Windows service that listens for Apollo’s ‘When Connected’ trigger and securely unlocks the PC—only when the user’s WireGuard VPN is active. It replaces manual logins with a one-click setup, ensuring security while restoring workflow efficiency. The tool integrates natively with Apollo and respects VPN security, avoiding regedit hacks.

Key Features

1. *VPN-Aware Security:- Only unlocks the PC when WireGuard (or other configured VPNs) is active, preventing unauthorized access.
2. *No Regedit Hacks:- Uses Windows API calls to unlock the session securely, without modifying system files.
3. One-Click Setup: Installs as a background service with a simple GUI config—no admin rights needed for personal use.

User Experience

Users install the service once, configure their VPN, and set Apollo to trigger the unlock on connection. From then on, every remote session starts with the PC already unlocked—no manual steps. The tool runs silently in the background, requiring no interaction. If the VPN drops, the PC relocks automatically, maintaining security.

Differentiation

Unlike regedit hacks or auto-logon tools, this solution is secure, VPN-aware, and Apollo-native. It avoids the risks of permanent auto-logon while respecting the user’s privacy needs. Competitors either don’t work with VPNs or require manual setup, making this the only ‘set and forget’ option for Apollo users.

Scalability

Starts with a single-user license ($29/mo) but scales to team plans for IT admins managing multiple workstations. Future features could include multi-VPN support, audit logs, and enterprise deployment tools. The service model ensures recurring revenue as users rely on it daily.

Expected Impact

Users save 5+ hours/week on manual logins and regain full control over their remote workflows. IT admins can enforce secure remote access policies without sacrificing productivity. The tool becomes a critical part of the remote work setup, reducing downtime and frustration for power users.