The macOS client isn't very Mac-like, but it's relatively straightforward to use. A Remote Control tab shows computers in your account set, and you can select one and use it in a variety of ways.
LogMeIn for Mac is one of the most powerful remote desktop apps for Mac users of all abilities and needs. LogMeIn for Mac offers specific tools for individuals, small businesses, IT professionals and help desk technicians and is the best on the market when it comes to enterprise remote desktop support. TeamViewer LogMeIn recently discontinued their free remote desktop access program, but TeamViewer is still around and offering this feature for free. TeamViewer is available for Mac, just as it's available for Windows, Linux, iPad, iPhone, Android, and even Windows Phone. The software can be downloaded for either Mac or PC, and after the connection with the remote computer is established, you can easily communicate with the remote user via chat, or open programs, move files around with ease, control settings, write documents, etc. Strangely enough, voice-chat is not available, but there's a whiteboard feature.
Imagine this: an employee at the satellite office across the country is having computer trouble, but they use an Apple device. Or maybe you have dozens of Mac end-user devices to reach, update, troubleshoot, or otherwise manage, but you don't have time to find each device and manually address the issues. Since many IT professionals work from a Windows workstation, it can be a concern how they will effectively reach Mac devices.
Thanks to remote desktop control software Mac users can use as easily as Windows users, there's no need to be physically in front of a computer when it needs your service. Remote desktop control to Apple, specifically Mac devices, requires special consideration—IT professionals must be able to control end-user devices for purposes of troubleshooting and maintenance. Numerous solutions exist, but they don't all work for Macs, so you may need to be prepared with a method for reaching Mac devices, even if you're not working from a Mac yourself. Typically, that means investing in a software solution with all the functions you need.
Why Do IT Admins Need Apple Remote Desktop Access?
Remote desktop access is the ability to operate a computer or components of a network from a different computer or part of the network. Apple remote desktop access is unique in that most built-in functions on Macs require a Mac on both ends, but there are solutions that allow cross-compatible access for troubleshooting. This is crucial for IT professionals, who may be called on to troubleshoot remotely, regardless of operating system.
File Sharing and Access
Remote desktop access was once widely used to access files and software when away from another Mac computer. Cloud computing has made this easier in many situations, as files can be easily kept in Dropbox or similar cloud drive option. If a worker wants to access all their files from home, they can simply log in to those accounts from a different device, and this is typically possible across various operating systems. However, using a program with a file transfer protocol (FTP) is crucial for businesses—an internal solution can make it faster and more secure when sharing larger files, staying behind the firewall, and generally ensuring functionality without relying on cloud storage.
IT Troubleshooting
Apple remote desktop access is vital for IT troubleshooting and support. The ability to share screens and take over an end user's device can save hours when trying to resolve performance issues. This is especially true for IT departments managing users all over the country and world. Instead of going back and forth trying to diagnose and fix a problem by phone or video chat, you can see and control exactly what the end user is seeing and doing. For businesses, it's crucial to have a Mac remote access solution that will keep all users up and running.
Maintenance and Updates
Remote desktop access can also be used for network updates and maintenance. The best methods and software enable access even when a device is powered down or off. Also, your remote desktop access interface should ideally allow you to manage multiple devices at the same time. This makes after-hours updates easy, limiting downtime and intrusions into the workday.
How Does Apple Remote Desktop Access Work?
Some built-in options for Mac remote access may work if you're simply connecting between two Macs. For a more robust solution, you'll need to consider business-grade software.
Apple Screen Sharing
Screen sharing is the fastest and easiest of the two built-in options from Apple in terms of setup but has drawbacks that make it less than ideal for IT professionals in the long-term.
To enable screen sharing on the Mac you want to share, choose Apple menu > System Preferences > Sharing > Screen Sharing. Write down the name and address of the Mac. The name is alphanumeric, while the address contains the IP address.
Then, on the other Mac, you can connect using either the name or the address:
- Connect using the name: Open Finder. In the Locations section of the sidebar, click Network, double-click the Mac you want to share, then click Share Screen.
- Connect using the address: In the Finder, choose Go > Connect to Server, enter the address of the Mac you want to share, then click Connect.
If both computers are logged in using the same Apple ID, the screen sharing session starts. If they're not, you're prompted to enter the username and password of a user who is allowed screen sharing access on that computer, or you can request permission to share the screen if the computer allows it.
Screen sharing is convenient because it is built into Macs and can be done without much forethought or setup. But you'll likely notice a lag as you work remotely in this way. Screen sharing can be helpful for short tasks and quick fixes, but it's not ideal for long-term remote needs.
Apple Remote Desktop
This is a more thorough option than screen sharing as you won't get the lag present with the latter. But it requires permissions or admin privileges on the computer allowing remote desktop access.
There are two ways to enable Remote Desktop: using System Preferences or using the command line prompt. To enable using System Preferences, click on the Apple menu and choose System Preferences. Click Sharing. If prompted, log in as an administrator on that computer, and select the Remote Management box.
Enabling remote desktop with the command line also requires admin privileges. If you have these already, enter this command in the prompt:
sudo /System/Library/CoreServices/RemoteManagement/ARDAgent.app/Contents/Resources/kickstart -activate -configure -access -on -restart -agent -privs -all
Remote Desktop seems to have been made with IT professionals in mind, offering a 'Curtain Mode' to hide work in progress, remote administration, and automation. Remote Access works from Mac to Windows and Linux.
Choosing Software for Remote Support
For businesses, it's important to choose a remote desktop access option that keeps data and users secure while allowing high levels of functionality. You'll want to choose a software solution that allows compatibility between various operating systems, no matter if you or the end users have the Mac device.
Besides compatibility, the most important features are the encryption and authentication methods the software uses to protect your connection. You should also consider built-in troubleshooting and screen-sharing features, along with in-platform communication tools (like chat) that can streamline the process. In some cases, remote desktop support software allows IT professionals to connect to a device even if it's powered down, so you don't necessarily have to interrupt end users.
For quick fixes and sudden issues, having a built-in remote access Mac solution can be helpful. But IT professionals in need of ongoing remote desktop access for troubleshooting and maintenance should invest in a secure, high-functionality solution that will allow for quick access, file transfer, tuning capabilities, and communication between any two devices, regardless of who is using a Windows device and who is using a Mac. Dameware® is a good tool to try out since they have either a cloud-based remote access solution or on-premises remote support software that can help you remotely troubleshoot a Mac (and even from a Mac if you choose the cloud version).
Selecting the Right Solution for Your MSP Business
The solutions mentioned above are excellent options for IT managers. But what if you're an MSP trying to streamline remote desktop access tasks for hundreds of different clients?
In this scenario, you might want to go looking for a more specialized tool. A great place to start is with SolarWinds Take Control. This solution was created for services providers that need to support a large number of customers in a way that's both fast and effective.
Take Control offers remote desktop tools designed to help make quick connections and resolve issues in a timely manner. It's also highly customizable, and comes with a full set of handy options, such as full session recordings and chat transcript searches.
The remote desktop app allows you to operate the peer computer without any geo-restrictions. Such apps are beneficial while the team is working remotely. Here we have listed some of the best Mac remote desktop apps and software, some of them are free, and some are paid ones. Let's check it out!
1. Microsoft Remote Desktop 10
Microsoft Remote Desktop is available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android lets you connect to your office PC from wherever you are. It allows easy access to the apps, files, and network resources of your work PC as if you were there. So, when you are working from home or elsewhere and need to copy a file, launch an application, or even troubleshoot a problem, MRD will make sure all these are possible.
With this tool, you may even leave applications open on the office PC and then see those apps from home. Secure connection, audio, and video streaming, and simple management further make this worth trying. On top of everything, it is free, and rightly number one on our list!
Price: Free
Download
2. AnyDesk Remote Desktop App for Mac
Whether you are a freelancer, small business owner, or a big organization, AnyDesk is capable of fulfilling your remote desktop needs. Due to almost no-to-negligible latency and smart features like remote printing, and file transfer, it feels as if you are on your office computer.
AnyDesk compresses and then transfers image data making the experience swift and unparalleled. It even lets you perform your tasks satisfactorily with internet bandwidth as low as 100 kB/s.
Banking-standard TLS 1.2 technology, encryption to verify every connection, 60 fps on-screen experience with most internet connections, ability to whitelist trusted desks, and On-Screen-Whiteboard, are some of the excellent additions.
Price: Free/paid subscription starts at $10.99
Download
3. Splashtop Mac Remote Desktop Software
Cross-platform file transfer (drag-and-drop), multi-monitor support, session recording, remote wake, remote reboot, and more, in an affordable package, is what makes Splashtop different. With remote print, you can access your file from a remote desktop and print the same on your local computer.
Splashtop also takes security and speed on priority. It hosts its cloud infrastructure on AWS and thus ensures a great experience. The Pro subscription adds extra benefits and lets you manage users in teams, share your desktop via a web link, and view multiple remote monitors simultaneously. It even allows two users remote into the same computer at the same time.
Price: Free trial/Paid plan starts at $5 a month.
Download
4. TeamViewer Desktop Sharing Mac App
TeamViewer is the first choice of almost all corporate houses. This software program allows you to access your data from servers and mobiles as well. You can set up permanent unattended remote access to mobile devices (apart from computers and servers). Next, you can share your screen on iPhones and iPads as well.
A mobile-to-mobile connection is also possible with TeamViewer. You can chat via text, take screenshots, and control processes on the supported devices. It is available for all major platforms including Linux, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, and iOS.
Price: Free/$49 a month for the paid version
Download
5. RemotePC Desktop Solution for Mac
RemotePC offers one-time instant access, hence, your partners and associates can access your computer one-time by sharing a unique Access ID and key. Web access allows you to connect remote computers from your local browser; this eliminates the need of installing any software.
Like Splashtop, RemotePC also gives you the facility of remote printing. You can print any document or image you have saved on your remote computer. A notable feature is remote sound play. You can listen to audio files from the remote computer to your local device.
Photoshop face editing software, free download. Price: Plan starts at $29.50
Download
6. Jump Desktop Mac App
Easy to set up and use, Jump Desktop is compatible with remote desktop and virtual network computing. Additionally, this software also works with next-generation remote desktop protocol, which is called Fluid Remote Desktop.
To achieve incredible productivity, this app lets you use your Mac keyboard shortcuts in Windows computer. This ensures a seamless connection between your computers without having to remember keyboard shortcuts.
Collaborative screen sharing is one of the remarkable features of Jump Desktop. By using this feature, you can invite many users to connect with a single computer.
Price: $14.99
Download
7. GoToMyPC Remote Desktop Software for Mac
Isn't it time-saving to cut, copy, and paste your documents or files from one computer to another? GoToMyPC enables you to transfer your data between connected computers.
If you have stored all your music on a remote desktop, you can access those music files and listen to your favorite music. Moreover, you can also listen to voicemail on the PC you are accessing.
Want to keep an eye on all monitors connected to your computer? This software, equipped with multi-monitor support, allows you to view full displays of all the remote monitors connected to your local device.
Price: Plan stars at $35
Download
Remote desktop access is the ability to operate a computer or components of a network from a different computer or part of the network. Apple remote desktop access is unique in that most built-in functions on Macs require a Mac on both ends, but there are solutions that allow cross-compatible access for troubleshooting. This is crucial for IT professionals, who may be called on to troubleshoot remotely, regardless of operating system.
File Sharing and Access
Remote desktop access was once widely used to access files and software when away from another Mac computer. Cloud computing has made this easier in many situations, as files can be easily kept in Dropbox or similar cloud drive option. If a worker wants to access all their files from home, they can simply log in to those accounts from a different device, and this is typically possible across various operating systems. However, using a program with a file transfer protocol (FTP) is crucial for businesses—an internal solution can make it faster and more secure when sharing larger files, staying behind the firewall, and generally ensuring functionality without relying on cloud storage.
IT Troubleshooting
Apple remote desktop access is vital for IT troubleshooting and support. The ability to share screens and take over an end user's device can save hours when trying to resolve performance issues. This is especially true for IT departments managing users all over the country and world. Instead of going back and forth trying to diagnose and fix a problem by phone or video chat, you can see and control exactly what the end user is seeing and doing. For businesses, it's crucial to have a Mac remote access solution that will keep all users up and running.
Maintenance and Updates
Remote desktop access can also be used for network updates and maintenance. The best methods and software enable access even when a device is powered down or off. Also, your remote desktop access interface should ideally allow you to manage multiple devices at the same time. This makes after-hours updates easy, limiting downtime and intrusions into the workday.
How Does Apple Remote Desktop Access Work?
Some built-in options for Mac remote access may work if you're simply connecting between two Macs. For a more robust solution, you'll need to consider business-grade software.
Apple Screen Sharing
Screen sharing is the fastest and easiest of the two built-in options from Apple in terms of setup but has drawbacks that make it less than ideal for IT professionals in the long-term.
To enable screen sharing on the Mac you want to share, choose Apple menu > System Preferences > Sharing > Screen Sharing. Write down the name and address of the Mac. The name is alphanumeric, while the address contains the IP address.
Then, on the other Mac, you can connect using either the name or the address:
- Connect using the name: Open Finder. In the Locations section of the sidebar, click Network, double-click the Mac you want to share, then click Share Screen.
- Connect using the address: In the Finder, choose Go > Connect to Server, enter the address of the Mac you want to share, then click Connect.
If both computers are logged in using the same Apple ID, the screen sharing session starts. If they're not, you're prompted to enter the username and password of a user who is allowed screen sharing access on that computer, or you can request permission to share the screen if the computer allows it.
Screen sharing is convenient because it is built into Macs and can be done without much forethought or setup. But you'll likely notice a lag as you work remotely in this way. Screen sharing can be helpful for short tasks and quick fixes, but it's not ideal for long-term remote needs.
Apple Remote Desktop
This is a more thorough option than screen sharing as you won't get the lag present with the latter. But it requires permissions or admin privileges on the computer allowing remote desktop access.
There are two ways to enable Remote Desktop: using System Preferences or using the command line prompt. To enable using System Preferences, click on the Apple menu and choose System Preferences. Click Sharing. If prompted, log in as an administrator on that computer, and select the Remote Management box.
Enabling remote desktop with the command line also requires admin privileges. If you have these already, enter this command in the prompt:
sudo /System/Library/CoreServices/RemoteManagement/ARDAgent.app/Contents/Resources/kickstart -activate -configure -access -on -restart -agent -privs -all
Remote Desktop seems to have been made with IT professionals in mind, offering a 'Curtain Mode' to hide work in progress, remote administration, and automation. Remote Access works from Mac to Windows and Linux.
Choosing Software for Remote Support
For businesses, it's important to choose a remote desktop access option that keeps data and users secure while allowing high levels of functionality. You'll want to choose a software solution that allows compatibility between various operating systems, no matter if you or the end users have the Mac device.
Besides compatibility, the most important features are the encryption and authentication methods the software uses to protect your connection. You should also consider built-in troubleshooting and screen-sharing features, along with in-platform communication tools (like chat) that can streamline the process. In some cases, remote desktop support software allows IT professionals to connect to a device even if it's powered down, so you don't necessarily have to interrupt end users.
For quick fixes and sudden issues, having a built-in remote access Mac solution can be helpful. But IT professionals in need of ongoing remote desktop access for troubleshooting and maintenance should invest in a secure, high-functionality solution that will allow for quick access, file transfer, tuning capabilities, and communication between any two devices, regardless of who is using a Windows device and who is using a Mac. Dameware® is a good tool to try out since they have either a cloud-based remote access solution or on-premises remote support software that can help you remotely troubleshoot a Mac (and even from a Mac if you choose the cloud version).
Selecting the Right Solution for Your MSP Business
The solutions mentioned above are excellent options for IT managers. But what if you're an MSP trying to streamline remote desktop access tasks for hundreds of different clients?
In this scenario, you might want to go looking for a more specialized tool. A great place to start is with SolarWinds Take Control. This solution was created for services providers that need to support a large number of customers in a way that's both fast and effective.
Take Control offers remote desktop tools designed to help make quick connections and resolve issues in a timely manner. It's also highly customizable, and comes with a full set of handy options, such as full session recordings and chat transcript searches.
The remote desktop app allows you to operate the peer computer without any geo-restrictions. Such apps are beneficial while the team is working remotely. Here we have listed some of the best Mac remote desktop apps and software, some of them are free, and some are paid ones. Let's check it out!
1. Microsoft Remote Desktop 10
Microsoft Remote Desktop is available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android lets you connect to your office PC from wherever you are. It allows easy access to the apps, files, and network resources of your work PC as if you were there. So, when you are working from home or elsewhere and need to copy a file, launch an application, or even troubleshoot a problem, MRD will make sure all these are possible.
With this tool, you may even leave applications open on the office PC and then see those apps from home. Secure connection, audio, and video streaming, and simple management further make this worth trying. On top of everything, it is free, and rightly number one on our list!
Price: Free
Download
2. AnyDesk Remote Desktop App for Mac
Whether you are a freelancer, small business owner, or a big organization, AnyDesk is capable of fulfilling your remote desktop needs. Due to almost no-to-negligible latency and smart features like remote printing, and file transfer, it feels as if you are on your office computer.
AnyDesk compresses and then transfers image data making the experience swift and unparalleled. It even lets you perform your tasks satisfactorily with internet bandwidth as low as 100 kB/s.
Banking-standard TLS 1.2 technology, encryption to verify every connection, 60 fps on-screen experience with most internet connections, ability to whitelist trusted desks, and On-Screen-Whiteboard, are some of the excellent additions.
Price: Free/paid subscription starts at $10.99
Download
3. Splashtop Mac Remote Desktop Software
Cross-platform file transfer (drag-and-drop), multi-monitor support, session recording, remote wake, remote reboot, and more, in an affordable package, is what makes Splashtop different. With remote print, you can access your file from a remote desktop and print the same on your local computer.
Splashtop also takes security and speed on priority. It hosts its cloud infrastructure on AWS and thus ensures a great experience. The Pro subscription adds extra benefits and lets you manage users in teams, share your desktop via a web link, and view multiple remote monitors simultaneously. It even allows two users remote into the same computer at the same time.
Price: Free trial/Paid plan starts at $5 a month.
Download
4. TeamViewer Desktop Sharing Mac App
TeamViewer is the first choice of almost all corporate houses. This software program allows you to access your data from servers and mobiles as well. You can set up permanent unattended remote access to mobile devices (apart from computers and servers). Next, you can share your screen on iPhones and iPads as well.
A mobile-to-mobile connection is also possible with TeamViewer. You can chat via text, take screenshots, and control processes on the supported devices. It is available for all major platforms including Linux, Raspberry Pi, Chrome OS, and iOS.
Price: Free/$49 a month for the paid version
Download
5. RemotePC Desktop Solution for Mac
RemotePC offers one-time instant access, hence, your partners and associates can access your computer one-time by sharing a unique Access ID and key. Web access allows you to connect remote computers from your local browser; this eliminates the need of installing any software.
Like Splashtop, RemotePC also gives you the facility of remote printing. You can print any document or image you have saved on your remote computer. A notable feature is remote sound play. You can listen to audio files from the remote computer to your local device.
Photoshop face editing software, free download. Price: Plan starts at $29.50
Download
6. Jump Desktop Mac App
Easy to set up and use, Jump Desktop is compatible with remote desktop and virtual network computing. Additionally, this software also works with next-generation remote desktop protocol, which is called Fluid Remote Desktop.
To achieve incredible productivity, this app lets you use your Mac keyboard shortcuts in Windows computer. This ensures a seamless connection between your computers without having to remember keyboard shortcuts.
Collaborative screen sharing is one of the remarkable features of Jump Desktop. By using this feature, you can invite many users to connect with a single computer.
Price: $14.99
Download
7. GoToMyPC Remote Desktop Software for Mac
Isn't it time-saving to cut, copy, and paste your documents or files from one computer to another? GoToMyPC enables you to transfer your data between connected computers.
If you have stored all your music on a remote desktop, you can access those music files and listen to your favorite music. Moreover, you can also listen to voicemail on the PC you are accessing.
Want to keep an eye on all monitors connected to your computer? This software, equipped with multi-monitor support, allows you to view full displays of all the remote monitors connected to your local device.
Price: Plan stars at $35
Download
8. Remotix Mac Remote Desktop App
Even if you are using an Internet with not-so-good speed, this remote desktop app will help you log onto your work computer from a personal one.
A fast remote desktop Mac app, this can save you in many situations, especially when you store your important data on a PC and forget to transfer the same to your hard drive.
Remotix introduces NEAR, which is a low-latency, adaptive, H.264 based remote desktop protocol. You can connect to your work computer from anywhere by using Remotix Cloud technology.
Price: $49.99
Download
9. LogMeIn
Here's a remote desktop solution that's ideal for all kinds of work needs. It can empower teams of varying sizes to communicate and collaborate from anywhere.
It helps you access your desktop from anywhere as if you were sitting right in front of it. Further, you can extend access to others for seamless collaboration. Choose the plan that works for you and get storage for your files according to your needs. Moreover, you get complimentary access to the password manager tool LastPass, which adds to the convenience.
Remote Software For Mac
Price: Free/Paid version starts at $44.50
Download
10. Chrome Remote Desktop
Chrome Remote Desktop is among the most popular Remote Desktop apps for Mac. It was earlier available only as a Chrome extension. However, now it also has a version of the Chrome Desktop app that you can add to your Mac in just one click. It shows in your Launchpad and is easy plus quick to work on.
Apart from your macOS device, you can use Chrome Remote Desktop as an iOS app. Overall, it is effortless to set up your work computer or laptop to be remotely accessed by installing Chrome Remote Desktop software. We started the list with a free item and are ending it with this, which is also free. Give it a shot.
Price: Free
Try it out
That's all, folks!
Free Remote Desktop Software Mac
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I have been writing about tech for over 10 years now. I am passionate about helping people solve their tech problems with easy and practical solutions. At iGeeksBlog, I write and edit how-to guides and accessory reviews for all things Apple. My work has previously appeared in Live IT and Woman's Era magazines. When not working, I love reading and traveling.
Free Remote Software For Mac
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