How to Set Up Remote Desktop from Mac to Mac?

I need help setting up a remote desktop connection from my Mac to another Mac. I’m not sure which settings or software to use for a seamless experience. Can anyone guide me through the process?

First, enable “Screen Sharing” on the Mac you wish to control:

  1. Go to “System Preferences.”
  2. Click on “Sharing.”
  3. Check the “Screen Sharing” option.
  4. Note the IP address or hostname listed.

On the Mac you’ll be using to control:

  1. Open “Finder.”
  2. In the “Go” menu, select “Connect to Server.”
  3. Enter the IP address or hostname of the remote Mac.
  4. Hit “Connect” and login with the appropriate credentials.

For smoother sessions, consider using software like HelpWire for Mac to Mac remote access; it’s optimized for such purposes.

And you’re all set!

Another method, aside from enabling ‘Screen Sharing,’ is to use the ‘Remote Desktop’ feature built into macOS. Here’s a more detailed approach that might be easier for some:

  1. First, on the Mac you wish to control, make sure ‘Remote Management’ is turned on:

    • Go to System Preferences.
    • Select Sharing.
    • Check the Remote Management box.
    • Instead of just noting the IP address or hostname, consider adding and specifying user permissions via the “Options” button in the Remote Management pane. This will give you more control over what the connecting user can do.
  2. On the controlling Mac:

    • Open Spotlight Search (Cmd + Space) and type Remote Desktop to open the Mac Remote Desktop app.
    • If you don’t have it installed yet, you can download it from the Mac App Store.
    • In the Remote Desktop application, go to File > New List.
    • Add a new item to the list and input the details, such as the IP address, hostname, and credentials of the remote Mac.

Remote Desktop offers more control and functions like monitoring multiple Macs, controlling which users can connect, and managing settings more effectively.

Lastly, if you need further assistance with setting up this type of connection, you might want to check out this comprehensive guide on how to access a Mac remotely. It covers everything from basic to advanced tips that could greatly enhance your remote desktop experience.

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