Sometimes, whether for work purposes or personal purposes, you’ll need to access your Mac without being physically present in front of it. This might be because you’re working from a different location than usual, like home or an alternative office space, because you’re working abroad, or perhaps you’re on the go. For many years, the solution to this growing need has been an ever-changing combination of remote access software solutions designed to pierce network complexities. These solutions let you remotely control or observe a computer.
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- Remote Desktop (RDP) For Mac OS X Video Link for Setup Process If using Mac OS X and you need to install and configure Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) please follow these steps: 1. Open the App Sto.
- RDP OTP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is the topmost and popular app with more than 100+ installations with 4.1 / 5.0 star average rating on Google playstore. It is available to download for FREE on mobile platforms. Whereas, for the Desktop platform, the app is not developed. Officially there is no way we can install this app on PC.
More modern tools available in recent years can pass along audio inputs and output, allow remote peripheral access, and can transfer files. Remote desktop and screen sharing solutions are becoming increasingly advanced, and there are more options than ever before. This raises the challenge of choosing between them and determining which remote desktop app for Mac is best for your requirements.
CoRD: Simple RDP Remote Desktop. Macs interact well with Windows, and with CoRD the experience is a bit smoother. Great for working on the office terminal server, administrating servers or any other time you'd like your PC to be a bit closer without leaving your Mac. Remote Printing. Print remote documents to a local printer. Print remote documents to a local printer that is attached to a client computer or shared in the client's local network. A system administrator can disable these features to prevent data leakage. Access your Mac using a standard RDP Client software. I use Microsoft Remote Desktop 8.0.3 with my Mac to connect to an application which is based on a Windows Server 2008. I don't find the way to print to my Mac. I don't find the menu for it:-(Same problem to transfert a file from the Windows Server to my Mac:-(:-(Can you help me? Many thanks in advance.
This article provides a list of the best remote desktop for Mac applications and help you choose between them by outlining the key advantages and disadvantages of each. This list considers ease of use, range of capabilities, and suitability for business use. It will also consider overall functionality, providing recommendations for remote desktop Mac to Mac tools, remote desktop PC to Mac tools, and remote desktop Mac to Linux tools.
For those who don’t have the time to read the full list, SolarWinds® Dameware® Remote Everywhere (DRE) and SolarWinds Dameware Remote Support (DRS) top the ranks as the most easy-to-use and sophisticated remote computer access tools. DRE and DRS offer a comprehensive range of features capable of meeting the needs of Mac users looking for all-in-one, enterprise-grade remote access software.
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SolarWinds DRE is a highly comprehensive remote access tool offering powerful capabilities for Mac users. With DRE, you can typically establish active sessions in less than eight seconds, saving you a significant amount of time otherwise spent connecting to workstations. DRE uses advanced encryption protocols to keep users safe. It supports two-factor authentication and multilevel permissions, helping ensure only authorized individuals can establish access.
DRE allows you to remotely access sleeping and powered-off computers through its support for Intel vPro with AMT, KVM, and Wake-on-Lan. This ensures unresponsive and out-of-band computers don’t stop you from resolving IT problems.
DRE helps you solve problems without disturbing the end user by giving you access to thorough system information at the start of a support session. This remote desktop app for Mac gives you all the relevant system info, including BIOS, device details, event logs, and updates.
In addition to providing detailed system details, DRE also delivers session information details. For every session conducted, details are saved, so important troubleshooting data can be shared with teammates when necessary. This tool even lets you take screenshots and recordings during the active sessions and add notes to the end user’s request or to session details. Recorded sessions can be saved to the cloud, to help ensure they’re not lost or misplaced.
DRE uses a powerful reporting engine, helping you improve your help desk department’s performance. This tool’s reporting functionalities give you in-depth insight into how your team is performing, providing session details, technician performance data, and end-user survey summaries.
This highly efficient solution allows you to communicate rapidly and conveniently with users even during active sessions. Your technicians can connect with users through pre-session or in-session chat, by using VoIP, or by initiating video calls. This can be done without interrupting active sessions. All messages are automatically saved in session logs, helping you keep track of previous communications.
A key advantage of this remote desktop app for Mac is its lightweight ticketing system, which allows you to keep a close eye on end-user requests without needing to implement a complicated help desk system. End users can request assistance through the DRE agent and, once requested, you can add notes to a ticket and assign it as needed. This provides a streamlined, efficient, and organized ticketing solution ideal for Mac and Windows users alike.
DRE is a versatile solution with multi-monitor support. This gives you visibility into workstations with multiple monitors, which is increasingly common in recent years, and lets you switch between the end users’ monitors with just one click.
DRE supports all major operating systems and computers, which means it can function as a remote desktop Mac-to-Mac solution, a remote desktop PC-to-Mac solution, and a remote desktop Mac-to-Linux solution. This makes DRE ideal for supporting a large client base who’s likely to use a range of operating systems and device types.
DRE isn’t especially suited for companies only looking for a remote connection tool. This remote desktop app for Mac offers an all-in-one solution plus help desk and ticketing features.
DRE is a user-friendly remote desktop tool designed to grow with you, making it suitable for even small businesses. A 14-day free trial is available.
Here’s a brief overview of DRE’s pros and cons:
Pros
- Multi-monitor support
- Lightweight ticketing system
- Live chat feature
- Powerful reporting engine
- Remotely access powered-off and sleeping computers
- Support for two-factor authentication and multi-level permissions
- Mobile application
Cons
- Less suitable for companies that already have a help desk and aren’t only looking for a remote desktop solution
DRS is another powerful SolarWinds remote desktop app. This tool is designed to deliver rapid and secure remote control functionalities, helping you get to the root of an IT issue as quickly as possible. DRS is designed to provide multi-platform remote access to Windows, Linux, and macOS computers, laptops, and servers. Access is via a single, easy-to-use admin console.
This flexible solution allows you to provide remote assistance at any time and from anywhere. You can initiate safe over-the-internet remote connections with Mac computers both inside the LAN and across the internet. As such, DRS is the ideal choice for businesses with employees who are likely to be working while on the go.
Best Remote Desktop For Mac
DRS lets you use remote access to reboot systems, start/stop services and processes, copy and delete files, view and clear event logs, and more. This simplifies administration activities for your IT administrators, reducing the need to make house calls for IT troubleshooting purposes.
IT issues can completely halt productivity, but with the right tools, this can be avoided. DRS offers system tools and TCP utilities designed to help you remotely troubleshoot computers without needing to launch a full remote control session. These built-in remote admin capabilities help you resolve issues quickly and with minimal disruption to productivity.
If you’re looking for a tool that supports IT admins while they’re on the go, DRS is a good option. DRS offers a mobile application, allowing IT admins to remotely access network computers from their mobile devices, no matter where they are.
DRS provides advanced authentication methods, including the option of enforcing two-factor authentication in security-sensitive environments using Smart Card logon.
Like DRE, DRS is an all-in-one remote control and systems management suite of tools. If you’re looking for a solution with a narrower range of capabilities, to complement rather than replace the software you already use, then DRS may not be the right choice for you.
Pros:
- Multi-factor authentication
- Built-in remote admin capabilities
- Remote access mobile application
- Multi-platform support
Cons:
- Less suitable for businesses looking for a narrower suite of tools
A 14-day free trial of SolarWinds DRS is available for download.
Although LogMeIn discontinued its free version in 2014, the paid alternative called LogMeIn Pro is one of the best remote desktop tools for Mac on the market. This remote computer access application gives businesses a way to access their desktop files from any device, even mobile devices. LogMeIn Pro features file storage with an initial 1TB of storage available.
LogMeIn Pro can be installed on one or two computers, but an unlimited number of users can access those computers. This tool provides a solution to the challenge of providing multiple employees who aren’t located on-site with access to important files and data.
LogMeIn also offers a password management tool you can use to streamline the management of your essential accounts and licenses. This remote access software is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses, particularly those working with people located in multiple branches or in other countries.
The LogMeIn Pro application supports remote printing, letting you print photos or documents from your mobile device—even if your desktop, laptop, and printer are at home or in the office. If, for example, you’re late for a big meeting and don’t have time to print the necessary files, you could use the LogMeIn Pro application to print the documents, so they’re ready the moment you arrive.
The application can also give you access to the websites you regularly visit. Even if you accessed the website from your desktop, you can reload it to your mobile device or tablet when you need it.
One of the key disadvantages of LogMeIn Pro is both the desktop server software and client software interfaces seem outdated. Despite this, the core functionality of LogMeIn Pro is effective, providing remote file access and screen sharing capabilities.
Here’s a brief overview of the pros and cons of LogMeIn:
Pros
- 1TB of storage
- Website access from mobile devices
- Remote printing
Cons
- Outdated interfaces
You can access a free 14-day trial of LogMeIn Pro here, without needing to provide any credit card details.
Zoho Assist is one of the most popular remote desktop software for Mac users, delivering both remote support and unattended remote access for Macs and PCs. Zoho Assist is a comprehensive remote access tool providing customer support capabilities and the ability to access or control another device. This includes mobile devices.
This software is particularly well-suited to customer support and IT professionals, IT help desks, outsourced IT, and managed service provider support. It includes a range of sophisticated features, including custom branding of your company and remote printing. This tool is also highly secure, leveraging two-factor authentication, SSL, and 256-bit encryption. Zoho Assist also features an action log viewer, giving you real-time visibility of who is accessing your network.
Microsoft Remote Desktop For Mac
One of the main disadvantages of Zoho Assist is, as a web-based software, it depends on users having access to a sufficient internet connection. If the internet is unavailable, you won’t be able to establish a session.
Pros:
- SSL and 256-bit encryption
- Multi-factor authentication
- Unattended and attended remote access
- Remote printing
- Custom branding
Remote Desktop Rdp For Mac Windows 10
Cons:
- Dependent on a decent internet connection
With no prior installation required at either end, you can get started with this remote desktop tool quickly and easily. You can access a free trial of Zoho assist here.
Jump Desktop features a dedicated Mac client and is one of the more user-friendly remote desktop applications for Mac users. Jump Desktop is unique because it allows you to use your Gmail account to automatically set up and configure a remote connection. This means establishing a connection is practically effortless. No networking knowledge is required, making it a good option for remote access beginners. Jump Desktop also provides the option of setting up remote desktop connections manually, which is better suited to users who are more experienced in remote access activities.
This tool provides multi-platform support for connections with iPads, iPhones, iPods, and even Android devices. You can also connect from Mac to Mac. Another advantage of Jump Desktop is it can map Mac keyboard shortcuts to work on Windows. This streamlines remote support. You can copy and paste between macOS and Windows, which is especially useful if you often work on both Mac and Windows devices.
Unfortunately, Jump Desktop does not offer support for remote printing and audio streaming when using personal computers running on Windows operating systems and Mac OS X.
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Automatic connections via Gmail account
- Ability to map Mac keyboard shortcuts to Windows devices
- Ability to copy and paste between Mac and Windows
Cons:
- Does not offer support for remote printing and audio streaming services
- Limited range of functionality
Jump Desktop is a good choice for beginners, but the tool doesn’t offer the same range of features as some of its competitors. You can download Jump Desktop from the Apple store.
Getting Started with the Best Remote Desktop for Mac
With more people working from home than ever before, remote access has become increasingly important. It’s key for companies to use reliable remote desktop tools designed to increase productivity and minimize workload. While there are many remote desktop tools currently on the market, not all are created equal—particularly for Mac users. This guide has considered and reviewed the best remote desktop for Mac users, to help your business make an informed decision before committing to a remote access solution.
Overall, SolarWinds DRE and DRS rank highest on our list of the best remote desktop tools for Mac users. DRE and DRS are comprehensive, safe, and offer an impressive range of sophisticated features. These tools offer great value for money and provide you with the features necessary to establish a robust and efficient remote access management system. Both DRE and DRS make creating remote connections simple, easy, and fast. These solutions are enterprise-grade and were built to grow with your business, making them a suitable choice for small and large businesses alike. You can access a free trial of DRE here and a free trial of DRS here. If you’re still not sure which of these remote desktop tools is right for you, we recommend making the most of the free trials available.
Topics Map > Services > Computing Equipment, Software and Support > Desktop Support
These instructions are specific to computers managed by IT. Some settings may apply to non-IT managed computers. Please work with your department's tech support for assistance setting up RDP on non-IT managed computers.
Note: Once you complete the steps below and make a remote connection, be sure to save all work before disconnecting or stepping away from the computer for an extended period of time. When the connection is disconnected, the host computer may close all open applications and log off. If this happens any unsaved work will be lost.
RDP for Windows 10
Remote Desktop is disabled by default in Windows 10. There are instances where access to your computer from off-campus is needed, here are detailed instructions on connecting to your computer from an off-campus location.
Enable RDP on your Windows 10 Computer
These steps need to be completed on the computer you wish to remote into before you attempt to remote into it.
- Open the search bar and search for Software Center and open the app
- Run the Remote Desktop - Enable app - this will automatically configure your IT Managed computer to enable RDP
Connect to your Windows Computer with RDP
Once you have completed the steps above, you are now ready to connect to the computer from another computer. Follow the steps below to remote into the computer (we advise testing this before going off campus):
- Open the search bar and search for Remote Desktop Connection and open the app
- Enter the ComputerName.ad.ndsu.edu or IP Address of the computer you are connecting to in the Computer: field
Note: Computer Name is the preferred method of connecting since your IP address may change- To find your Computer Name
- In the search bar type PC Name
- Open View your PC name
- You will find your Computer Name on the Device Name line
Reminder: Enter ComputerName.ad.ndsu.edu on the Computer field on the Remote Desktop Connection app
- To find your IP Address:
- In the search bar type cmd
- Open Command Prompt
- Type ipconfig /all and press Enter
- Find your IPv4 Address under the Ethernet Adapter heading
- To find your Computer Name
- Enter your [email protected] in the User name field
Note: If the connection fails, you may need to enter [email protected] for the User name - Click Connect
- You will then need to approve a Duo MFAprompt before the connection will complete
- If you need to set up or make changes to your Duo MFA devices, please visit https://kb.ndsu.edu/99732
Remote Desktop Rdp For Mac Windows 7
Connect to a Windows PC from a Mac
Once you have completed the steps to enable RDP on a Windows 10 computer above, follow the steps below to connect to the Windows 10 computer from your Mac (we advise testing this before going off campus):
- Install the Microsoft Remote Desktopapp
- If you have an IT Managed Mac, open the Self Service app
- Install Microsoft Remote Desktop 10
- The app can also be found in the Apple AppStore at https://apps.apple.com/us/app/microsoft-remote-desktop-10/id1295203466?mt=12
- Launch the Microsoft Remote Desktop app
- Click the + symbol to set up a new connection
- Select Desktop
- Enter the IP Address of the computer you are connecting to
- Enter the Computer Name of the computer in the Friendly name field
- Click Add
- Double click on the tile with the name you entered in the Friendly name field
- Enter the username and password of the computer you are connecting to
Screen Sharing for Macs
Enable Mac to Mac Remote Access
Follow these instructions to enable remote access when connecting to a Mac from a Mac. Again, this will need to be done before you attempt to connect to the computer from off campus.
- Open System Preferences
- Select Sharing
- Check the box for Screen Sharing
- Select the Only these users: button next to Allow access for:
- Click the + symbol
- Select your user account and choose Select
Connect to your Mac from a Mac with Screen Sharing
Once you have completed the steps above, you are now ready to connect to the Mac computer from another Mac computer. Follow the steps below to remote into the computer (we advise testing this before going off campus):
- You will need the IP address of the computer you want to connect to
- Go to the Apple menu and open System Preferences
- Click Network
- Select your connection
- Write down what is listed as the IP Address:
- Now go to the computer you want to connect from
- Click the hourglass in the upper right hand corner and search for for Screen Sharing and open it
- Enter the IP Address in the Connect to Server prompt and click Connect
- Enter the username and password for the computer you are connect to
Remote Desktop Access Mac
Tips
Remote Connection Using Multiple Monitors on Windows
If you have multiple monitors from the remote location, you can tell your Windows remote connection to use them. Without doing this your remote connection will only be displayed on one monitor. This has to be set before connecting
- Open the Remote Desktop Connection app
- Click the Show Options arrow to see the advanced options if they do not automatically display
- Enter the connection information as described above if it is not already populated
- Click the Display tab
- Check the Use all my monitors for the remote session
- Click Connect
Extend your Display for Multiple Monitor Experience
If you have multiple monitors or if you are using a TV as an additional 'monitor,' it may default to mirror your display which shows the same display on both monitors. You can change this setting to extend your monitors which allows you to use each monitor as it's own display, providing the multiple monitor experience.
- Open your search bar and type Display Settings and open the settings
- Scroll down to the Multiple displays heading
- Click the Multiple displays drop down and change it from Duplicate these displays to Extend these displays
- You may also need to move the monitors to the correct position in the Rearrange your displays at the top
Configuring Audio or Video Devices When Using RDP
If you are connected remotely to your computer and running into audio or video problems when using apps such as Skype for Business, Teams, or Zoom, you may need to configure the RDP session to use the local mic and camera on the computer you are physically at for it to work properly. This has to be done before connecting
- Open the Remote Desktop Connection app
- Click the Show Options arrow to see the advanced options if they do not automatically display
- Click the Local Resourcestab
- Audio
- Click Settings located in the Remote audio section
- Select Playon this computer and Record from this computer
- Click OK
- Video
- Click More under the Local devices and resources section
- Check the Video capture devices box
- Click OK
- Audio
- Click Connect
- You may have to configure the specific apps to use those devices in the app settings (ex. Skype for Business, Teams, Zoom)