Apple Remote Desktop is the best way to manage Mac computers in your network. Distribute software, provide real-time online help to end users, create detailed software and hardware reports, and automate routine management tasks - all from your own Mac. Software distribution - Easily copy and install software on remote Mac systems. Global Nav Open Menu Global Nav Close Menu; Apple; Shopping Bag +. Search Support. May 29, 2019 Connecting to a Mac from a Windows PC. Connecting to a Mac from a Windows PC is a little different. You’re not going to be able to use Remote Desktop, but that’s okay because there’s a free client called RealVNC viewer that does the trick nicely. Just like with Windows, you first have to set up your Mac for screen sharing. To share your Mac with someone else, download a remote Virtual Network Computing (VNC) app like Jump Desktop. With full remote access and Mac remote control, the other person — or yourself connecting to another Mac — can have the same level of control as the person using that device. Except for Admin level access, since it's password protected.
Remote access to Mac, anywhere
While many countries are on a lockdown due to COVID-19, remote work is becoming a lifestyle. Remotely accessing a Mac is designed to be easy. Apple has spent a lot of time ensuring anyone can log in to their Macs — both desktop and laptop — from any other Mac device, anywhere. And, besides, there are a variety of third-party apps ready to help with that too.
Still, remotely managing their Mac sounds overly complicated to a lot of people. From how you connect to sharing files or screens to using your Apple device as a remote mouse, we want to demystify the process in the easy-to-follow guide below.
Best Remote Access Apps for Mac
There are times when you want to access your Mac remotely, and there are many different solutions to remote access your Mac. Best utilities in one pack, give it a go!
How to access your Mac from another location
There're two ways: you can allow remote login to your Mac from another computer, or allow others to access your computer using Remote Desktop (it's available from the App Store).
Allow remote login to your Mac from another computer
For devices using the same macOS, you can allow remote Mac login using a Secure Shell (SSH). This enables Mac remote desktop access using a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP).
To set up Remote Login:
- Go to System Preferences > Sharing
- Select Remote Login.
- Choose which users you want to have remote access or the ability to control your Mac.
You can either select All Users, which means any other device on your network, or any Mac you own, can access and connect, or click the plus sign to pick the exact users.
When you want to remotely log in to your Mac from another device, you need to know your username (the name that appears when you login) and your computer's IP address. Write them down and keep them safe, as allowing access to your Mac does make it potentially less secure, especially over cellular or public Wi-Fi networks.
Accessing, controlling, or viewing information on your Mac can be done with a built-in Terminal or any other SSH app using your username and IP address.
Allow others to access your computer using Apple Remote Desktop
With macOS Sierra remote Mac access and control is even easier. To set up it:
- Go to Menu > System Preferences > Sharing
- Select Remote Management - it should appear as a checkbox.
- Now you can select who has remote desktop access. Either select, All Users, which means any other device on your network, or Mac you own, can access and connect, or click the Add button(+), which gives you the ability to select who can have remote access and/or control.
If you are using a VPN or VNC viewer and want to access your Mac remotely, you will need to setup a password first. It is also possible to use iOS devices, such as an iPhone and iPad, through Apple Remote Desktop, available from the App Store.
How to stay on the same page with Screens
Collaboration has become of utmost importance to today's workplaces. And with more and more people working remotely, being on the same screen (ahem, page) is a must.
Screens allows you to work remotely with any computer regardless of your location. Whether you are on a business trip or traveling, stay confident knowing you can access any file on your home computer at any time.
This robust screen sharing tool for Mac supports:
- Multiple displays
- Drag-and-drop file sharing
- Hiding your remote screen while accessing it
- Accessing other computers (e.g. colleague's) as a guest
- Alternative shortcuts (useful when connecting Mac to PC)
- Custom actions in case of disconnection
To start using Screens, get the app from Setapp and configure the following:
- Remote login and remote management (as per the guide above)
- Install Screens Connect helper app and create a Screens ID on every machine you'd like to connect to in the future
- Use your Screens ID in the Screens app and it will automatically determine which of your computers are available for connection
Remote desktop client for Mac
Control any computer remotely – a perfect way to access your Mac from anywhere without limitations.
Share files between devices
Today we have plenty of ways to send and share files. But ask someone to send something, and you are likely to get it through email. Due to the ubiquitousness of email, it's still the default method for file sharing, despite its obvious flaws and constraints.
Fortunately, there are much better ways:
Native macOS File Sharing
Few people know that their Mac has native file sharing functionality built in. To use this feature, activate it in the Sharing pane of System Preferences by checking File Sharing. If you only want to share specific folders, add them to the Shared Folders list. If you only want specific users to access the folder, add them to its Users list. Otherwise, everyone will be able to access it.
AirDrop
Although not the most reliable solution, AirDrop works fine for occasional sharing a file between Apple devices. In the Finder, choose Go and then AirDrop on both the sending and receiving Mac. As soon as you see the receiver's user icon, drag the desired file onto it to send.
Read more about how to use AirDrop
Dropshare
If you don't want to send files Mac-to-Mac directly but rather through a cloud storage, there is no easier way than Dropshare. The app works with numerous cloud providers, from Dropbox to Google Drive, and saves your files for sharing by simply dragging them onto its menu bar icon.
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
The most technical but also the most robust way to share files from your mac is to use FTP, which you could do either through Terminal or an FTP Client, the latter being much more user friendly.
There are a few popular FTP clients one could choose from. The robust file managing app ForkLift covers most of the FTP functionality but takes it to the next level and could be a viable replacement for the Finder altogether with its quick search, instant previews, and file comparison.
DCommander is another full-featured file transfer app for Mac that combines speed and reliability, able to handle thousands of files, schedule backups, and even automate transfers.
At last, when it comes to sharing the same files on different devices, an app like ChronoSync Express becomes invaluable.
ChronoSync Express is powerful tool for sharing and transferring files from Mac to Mac, or any another Apple device. With a feature called Synchronizer Document, you can select which files need to be automatically synchronized and shared between devices, just like that:
- Create a new synchronizer document for each folder synchronization you'd like to perform
- Name the synchronization
- Change the Operation to Synchronize Bidirectional
- Select folders to sync on the left and right
- Test with a Trial Sync
Do you need to use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)?
Whether you are working on your Mac directly, logging into your Mac remotely, or sharing access with someone else, security should be on top of your mind.
As a rule of thumb, you should always use a VPN when connected to a public Wi-Fi network, as someone could log in and see the information you send just as easily as you do.
And with remote access — even in the View Only mode — someone can see every file and document on your Mac, except those that are password protected. Unfortunately, if you leave passwords in a visible document, you expose yourself to immense risks.
A secure VPN client for Mac like Shimo is well worth using to stop unwanted eyes from lurking around, especially if you are sharing sensitive files, financial records or customer data.
However, for extra peace of mind and security, consider firing up your VPN automatically on all networks you are not 100% sure about to keep your emails, bank accounts and personal documents safe.
To share your Mac with someone else, download a remote Virtual Network Computing (VNC) app like Jump Desktop. With full remote access and Mac remote control, the other person — or yourself connecting to another Mac — can have the same level of control as the person using that device. Except for Admin level access, since it's password protected.
Starting with Jump Desktop is easy: either yourself (gaining access) or the person you are giving a remote view or control access to your Mac, needs to add details of the device and the password.
Secure your access with VPN
Get a VPN client for Mac to avoid privacy infringement while connecting remotely. It's secure and free to try.
Once permission is granted at the other end, remote Mac screen sharing or control (whereby you can use the iOS device as a remote mouse) becomes possible.
How to use your iOS device as a remote mouse
If your remote work starts on a patio hammock somewhere in east Asia, you should note that Apple iOS devices, such as an iPhone or iPad, can be used to control a Mac remotely, much like a mouse can control a desktop or laptop. Apps that make this possible work on VNC.
Remote Mouse is the easiest, most effective way to turn your iOS device into a wireless remote control for your Mac.
Although remote access through a local network would be most effective, since the closer you are to the device the quicker the connection, it's also possible from anywhere in the world, providing the network is secure and fast enough.
Setting up and granting access to the iOS device is the same process as when someone wants to access using a Mac. Except you need to give them a password. And make sure it is different from your primary Mac or iOS (App Store) one.
So working together or checking on your devices can be done from anywhere in the world and there are lots of ways to do that, from sharing screens and files to having complete access to a system set up far away. Setapp equips you with all the apps needed to remotely access any device you need and elevate your work to the global level.
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Apple Mac Remote Desktop
Remote access software refers to software which allows you to control your computer remotely. So, it’s the best solution in case you left your important files at home and it’s very urgent to get them otherwise your boss going to take you out of the office.
When you are not at home or your family member don’t know how to work with it. In that situation, a remote access software is very useful.
Technology has made such software that help in this situation. You can access your Windows PC or Mac Computers while you are outside either in the office or somewhere else.
To remotely access your computer you have to install a software first on the computer you want to connect known as the host. Another thing you have to do is to install the software on another computer which you will connect to known as the client.
There are many remote accessing Softwares but they can be heavy on your wallet. So, here are the Top 10 Remote Access Software for Mac Computers.
1. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is one of the best remote access software. It is free for personal usage. Most of you might be familiar with it. It’s very easy to install TeamViewer and you don’t need to do any changes in the firewall configurations or router settings.
With the help of TeamViewer, you can not only access a remote computer but can also transfer files. This remote access software also supports text chats, voice or video calls. With the feature support wake-on-LAN, you can connect to your computer remotely automatically in safe mode.
There are many features of TeamViewer including sharing the application window with a person on the other hand and you can also print the files remotely.
It is supported by Windows 10, 8, 7, vista, Linux, Chrome and Mac.
2. Ultra VNC
Ultra VNC is among one of the remote access software which is very much popular. Here a server and viewer are installed on two different computers, and the viewer controls the server.
On the Host side, when Ultra VNC is installed on a computer it will ask whether you want this computer to be the Server, Viewer or both of them. You have to install the Server on the one that you want to remotely access. When it’s installed as a system service it always runs in the background. So, it allows you to connect to the client at any time.
The other side is Client side. When you want to establish a connection with the Ultra VNC Server you have to install the Viewer portion this side. When you are done with the router’s port configuration, you can access the Server from anywhere with an internet connection. The only thing you have to know is the IP address to establish the connection.
Mac Remote Desktop Download
Ultra VNC offers text chat, boot and connects to the server safely, clipboard sharing, file transfer, etc.
3. Remote PC
Remote PC is a simple-to-use remote access software that allows only one connection. If you want only this then it’s fine for you.
On the Host side, you just have to download and install the software as per the instructions. It is supporting both Windows and Mac computers. Then you have to share the Access ID and Key to make the computer accessible.
Another thing you can do is log into the host computer and add computer so that can be easily accessed later on.
On the Client side, you have two options to remotely access the host computer. First, by installing a RemotePC program on the computer and then enter the Access ID and Key to establish a connection with the host.
Another method is to use client’s perspective RemotePC which is allowed through iOS or Android app. Then you can transfer files from remote Mac computer and can access multiple devices. Please keep in mind that both the host and the client should have the same operating system otherwise they won’t be compatible.
4. Seecreen
Seecreen seems very tiny but don’t you undermine its power. It’s very effective in remotely accessing your computer whenever it is demanded at an instant.
On the Host side, open it on the computer that is to be controlled. Then create your account and log in, another user can be added by email id or username. Add the client to the Unattended list and they can remotely access your computer. It’s your choice to add the contact list but you can share the ID and password for further instant access.
On the Client side, to connect with the host you have to enter the host ID and password. Finally when the connection is completed then you can easily transfer data, share screen, perform voice call and you can also record the current session. The software must be started at the client side to can share the screen.
5. Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is just an extended version of the very famous Google Chrome web browser which enables you to remotely access the computer from some other Chrome browser.
On the Host side, first, you have to install this extension for Google Chrome. Then for the authentication purpose, you have to create a PIN to remotely access the computer. Make sure that you have logged into your Google account to do this.
On the Client side, sign in to another Google Chrome browser. The PIN and extension would be same. After logging in you can see the remote computer and access it. Simple copy paste is used in this for sharing with no more deep enhanced setting.
6. AnyDesk
AnyDesk is a very simple to operate remote access software that you can install and run easily.
On the Host side, launch AnyDesk on the computer you wish to connect to then you have to save the AnyDesk-Address that you can also set manually. At the connection establishment stage with the client, the host is asked their choice. You can select from allowing or not be allowing, clipboard usage, sound control, block the host.
On the client side, you have to run the AnyDesk with the AnyDesk-Address of the host in Remote Desk option. If you have set the access to unattended then the client can connect without the acceptance from the host every time the connection is established. Along with the transfer of data, can take screenshots of the remote computer, sync the clipboard, balance the speed of established connection and the quality, use the shortcuts of the keyboard, and finally you can enter into full-screen mode.
7. Join.me
The producer of LogMeln has introduced Join.me remote access software to access another computer using an internet browser.
On the Host side, you can download and run join.me to remotely access your device. When you choose start button, a selection application or the entire computer can be remotely viewed.
On the Client side, within the Join section, install join.me. You just need the personal code of this tool. It offers conference calling option, multiple monitors, full-screen mode, and up to 10 people can connect to view a screen at a time.
8. Beam Your Screen
Beam Your Screen is another portable and freely available remote access software for your computer. Here an ID number is used by the viewer to remotely access the Mac computer.
On the Host side, it is known as the organizer. So, on the host computer, it uses Beam Your Screen for Organizers when connected to the other end. Nothing else is required to install except this and you can start sharing information.
New mac desktop 2019. On the Client side, the version is known as the Beam Your Screen for Participants. It is very simple and fast to execute the files. To join the host, under the Session ID enter the host’s session number to start a connection. Then you are ready to start sharing the screen, clipboard text, and text files and other stuff.
Another interesting thing about this tool is that you can see the online host without installing the software and multiple users can share the ID to join in common.
9. Splashtop
Splashtop is freely available for personal usage. You can remotly access up to five computers with its free version.
Apple Mac Remote Desktop Software Free
Its feature of streaming videos and audio let you access them remotely on your tablet or Mac computers from the desktop. So, it’s a better option for you guys to remotely access your computer. It’s free for a week and then it costs 2$ per month that provides sufficient ability to access the computer remotely. For the connection establishment, it doesn’t require many efforts.
On the Host side, just install the software and create the required login credentials.
On the Client side, install the same version of the software and then enter the required credentials. That’s all you have to do.
10. LogMeln
LogMeln is handy to use by the users and efficient way to connect with others through the remote access software.
You just have to download the client software and then create your account. When you want to log in through the browser or the web page you just sign in and enter the host ID and start connection.
LogMeln enables you to access the active processes, hard drive information, transfer data from the host to remote client. It also allows you to have video calling with the host side.