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.
The Remote Play app for PC and Mac lets you stream games from your PS4 to your laptop or desktop computer. With Remote Play enabled, your PS4 home screen, games and more can be streamed over your home broadband network. Remote desktop client (RDC) for Mac 2.1.1 is no longer compatible with OSX 10.9 Mavericks / OSX 10.10 Yosemite, or OSX 10.11 El Capitan, and is not supported. This client is not able to establish a connection to our servers. Microsoft Remote Desktop 10 for Mac is compatible with macOS 10.12 or later.
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.
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
Microsoft Remote Desktop 10 Mac
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.
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.
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.
-->Applies To: Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2016
You can use the Remote Desktop client for Mac to work with Windows apps, resources, and desktops from your Mac computer. Use the following information to get started - and check out the FAQ if you have questions.
Note
- Curious about the new releases for the macOS client? Check out What's new for Remote Desktop on Mac?
- The Mac client runs on computers running macOS 10.10 and newer.
- The information in this article applies primarily to the full version of the Mac client - the version available in the Mac AppStore. Test-drive new features by downloading our preview app here: beta client release notes.
Get the Remote Desktop client
Follow these steps to get started with Remote Desktop on your Mac:
- Download the Microsoft Remote Desktop client from the Mac App Store.
- Set up your PC to accept remote connections. (If you skip this step, you can't connect to your PC.)
- Add a Remote Desktop connection or a remote resource. You use a connection to connect directly to a Windows PC and a remote resource to use a RemoteApp program, session-based desktop, or a virtual desktop published on-premises using RemoteApp and Desktop Connections. This feature is typically available in corporate environments.
What about the Mac beta client?
We're testing new features on our preview channel on AppCenter. Want to check it out? Go to Microsoft Remote Desktop for Mac and select Download. You don't need to create an account or sign into AppCenter to download the beta client.
If you already have the client, you can check for updates to ensure you have the latest version. In the beta client, select Microsoft Remote Desktop Beta at the top, and then select Check for updates.
Add a workspace
Subscribe to the feed your admin gave you to get the list of managed resources available to you on your macOS device.
To subscribe to a feed:
- Select Add feed on the main page to connect to the service and retrieve your resources.
- Enter the feed URL. This can be a URL or email address:
- This URL is usually a Windows Virtual Desktop URL. Which one you use depends on which version of Windows Virtual Desktop you're using.
- For Windows Virtual Desktop (classic), use
https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/api/feeddiscovery/webfeeddiscovery.aspx. - For Windows Virtual Desktop, use
https://rdweb.wvd.microsoft.com/api/arm/feeddiscovery.
- For Windows Virtual Desktop (classic), use
- To use email, enter your email address. This tells the client to search for a URL associated with your email address if your admin configured the server that way.
- This URL is usually a Windows Virtual Desktop URL. Which one you use depends on which version of Windows Virtual Desktop you're using.
- Select Subscribe.
- Sign in with your user account when prompted.
After you've signed in, you should see a list of available resources.
Once you've subscribed to a feed, the feed's content will update automatically on a regular basis. Resources may be added, changed, or removed based on changes made by your administrator.
Export and import connections
You can export a remote desktop connection definition and use it on a different device. Remote desktops are saved in separate RDP files.
To export an RDP file:
- In the Connection Center, right-click the remote desktop.
- Select Export.
- Browse to the location where you want to save the remote desktop RDP file.
- Select OK.
To import an RDP file:
- In the menu bar, select File > Import.
- Browse to the RDP file.
- Select Open.
Add a remote resource
Remote resources are RemoteApp programs, session-based desktops, and virtual desktops published using RemoteApp and Desktop Connections.
- The URL displays the link to the RD Web Access server that gives you access to RemoteApp and Desktop Connections.
- The configured RemoteApp and Desktop Connections are listed.
To add a remote resource:
- In the Connection Center select +, and then select Add Remote Resources.
- Enter information for the remote resource:
- Feed URL - The URL of the RD Web Access server. You can also enter your corporate email account in this field – this tells the client to search for the RD Web Access Server associated with your email address.
- User name - The user name to use for the RD Web Access server you are connecting to.
- Password - The password to use for the RD Web Access server you are connecting to.
- Select Save.
The remote resources will be displayed in the Connection Center.
Connect to an RD Gateway to access internal assets
A Remote Desktop Gateway (RD Gateway) lets you connect to a remote computer on a corporate network from anywhere on the Internet. You can create and manage your gateways in the preferences of the app or while setting up a new desktop connection.
To set up a new gateway in preferences:
Microsoft Remote Desktop Mac 10.11.6
- In the Connection Center, select Preferences > Gateways.
- Select the + button at the bottom of the table Enter the following information:
- Server name – The name of the computer you want to use as a gateway. This can be a Windows computer name, an Internet domain name, or an IP address. You can also add port information to the server name (for example: RDGateway:443 or 10.0.0.1:443).
- User name - The user name and password to be used for the Remote Desktop gateway you are connecting to. You can also select Use connection credentials to use the same user name and password as those used for the remote desktop connection.
Manage your user accounts
When you connect to a desktop or remote resources, you can save the user accounts to select from again. You can manage your user accounts by using the Remote Desktop client.
To create a new user account:
- In the Connection Center, select Settings > Accounts.
- Select Add User Account.
- Enter the following information:
- User Name - The name of the user to save for use with a remote connection. You can enter the user name in any of the following formats: user_name, domainuser_name, or user_name@domain.com.
- Password - The password for the user you specified. Every user account that you want to save to use for remote connections needs to have a password associated with it.
- Friendly Name - If you are using the same user account with different passwords, set a friendly name to distinguish those user accounts.
- Select Save, then select Settings.
Customize your display resolution
Remote Desktop 10 Mac
You can specify the display resolution for the remote desktop session.
- In the Connection Center, select Preferences.
- Select Resolution.
- Select +.
- Enter a resolution height and width, and then select OK.
To delete the resolution, select it, and then select -.
Displays have separate spaces
If you're running Mac OS X 10.9 and have disabled Displays have separate spaces in Mavericks (System Preferences > Mission Control), you need to configure this setting in the Remote Desktop client using the same option.
Drive redirection for remote resources
Drive redirection is supported for remote resources, so that you can save files created with a remote application locally to your Mac. The redirected folder is always your home directory displayed as a network drive in the remote session.
Note
In order to use this feature, the administrator needs to set the appropriate settings on the server.
Use a keyboard in a remote session
Mac keyboard layouts differ from the Windows keyboard layouts.
- The Command key on the Mac keyboard equals the Windows key.
- To perform actions that use the Command button on the Mac, you will need to use the control button in Windows (for example Copy = Ctrl+C).
- The function keys can be activated in the session by pressing additionally the FN key (for example, FN+F1).
- The Alt key to the right of the space bar on the Mac keyboard equals the Alt Gr/right Alt key in Windows.
By default, the remote session will use the same keyboard locale as the OS you're running the client on. (If your Mac is running an en-us OS, that will be used for the remote sessions as well.) If the OS keyboard locale is not used, check the keyboard setting on the remote PC and change it manually. See the Remote Desktop Client FAQ for more information about keyboards and locales.
Support for Remote Desktop gateway pluggable authentication and authorization
Windows Server 2012 R2 introduced support for a new authentication method, Remote Desktop Gateway pluggable authentication and authorization, which provides more flexibility for custom authentication routines. You can now try this authentication model with the Mac client.
Important
Custom authentication and authorization models before Windows 8.1 aren't supported, although the article above discusses them.
To learn more about this feature, check out https://aka.ms/paa-sample.
Tip
Questions and comments are always welcome. However, please do NOT post a request for troubleshooting help by using the comment feature at the end of this article. Instead, go to the Remote Desktop client forum and start a new thread. Have a feature suggestion? Tell us in the client user voice forum.
