Newb needs a GUI

Using Debian 7 + (jessie) with KDE in my desktop, jessie is also on my linode.

I need a GUI to access and see what is in my linode.

I would like to launch Synaptic and install packages from there in Linode.

I know Dolphin has an option to connect remotely, and work like an FTP client of sorts.

I have Filezilla installed, could connect as root, but, after following guide to secure server, I disabled root logins and password authentication and can no longer connect.

I can always re-enable passwords and/or enable root logins, but then what would be the point of enhanced security?

I already installed web server via tasksel so It's Alive! I can access via browser and IP, but I need a viewer for the innards.

Thank you.