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Привет, Хабр! Меня зовут Холодаев Алексей, я младший системный администратор в Cloud4Y. Сегодня хочу поделиться способом подключения стандартного RDP-клиента Windows к MacOS. Если интересно, ныряйте под кат.
Вы наверняка знаете, что в MacOS есть встроенный VNC сервер, к которому можно подключаться через VNC клиента. Однажды я задумался: а почему бы не использовать стандартный RDP client Windows для подключения к яблочной операционной системе? Немного погуглив, я обнаружил, что существует бесплатный RDP сервер на MacOS — xRDP. Данный сервер легко устанавливается на ОС Linux/Unix. Об установке и настройке этого сервера расскажу далее.
Установку я производил на свой макбук с MacOS Big Sur.
Для начала необходимо установить инструменты командной строки Xcode. Для этого выполняем команду в ПО терминала.
xcode-select --installДалее установим менеджер сторонних пакетов Homebrew командой
$ /usr/bin/ruby -e "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/master/install)"Установим библиотеку OpenSSL командой
brew install opensslПосле установки OpenSSL присвоим переменной CPPFLAGS путь к библиотеке, чтобы компилятор смог данную библиотеку найти. Выполним команду
export CPPFLAGS="-I/usr/local/opt/openssl/include"Установим необходимые пакеты командами
brew install automakebrew install libtoolbrew install pkgconfigbrew install nasmУстановим XQuartz – программное средство системы X Window System. Скачать программу можно с официального сайта. После установки необходимо перезайти в систему.
Для удобства работы создадим отдельную папку: mkdir /Users/admin/Documents/xrdp/
Теперь включим встроенный VNC сервер. Для этого перейдём в «Системные настройки»
Далее выбираем общий доступ:
Включаем функцию «Общий экран» и переходим в настройки компьютера
Включаем опцию “любой пользователь может запросить разрешение управлять экраном” и задаём пароль в пункте “Пользователи VNC могут получить управление экраном по паролю”
Теперь загрузим необходимые пакеты.
Нам требуются xRDP и xOrgRDP в формате исходного кода.
Загрузить их можно отсюда (tar.gz архивы). После загрузки переместим данные архивы в папку, которую мы ранее создали, и извлечём их.
cp /Users/admin/Downloads/xrdp-0.9.11.tar /Users/admin/Documents/xrdp/
tar -xvf xrdp-0.9.11.tar
rm xrdp-0.9.11.tar
cp /Users/admin/Downloads/xorgxrdp-0.2.11.tar /Users/admin/Documents/xrdp/
tar -xvf xorgxrdp-0.2.11.tar
rm xorgxrdp-0.2.11.tarСборка xRDP
Запустим Bootstrapper и сконфигурируем сборку с помощью OpenSSL. Затем запустим make установщик.
Если вы получаете ошибку на этом шаге, то скорей всего это связано с неправильным экспортом OpenSSL CPPFLAGS.
Сборка xOrgRDP
Запустим Bootstrapper и сконфигурируем сборку так, чтоб она происходила при помощи OpenSSL. Затем запустим make установщик.
cd ../xorgxrdp-0.2.11/
./bootstrap
./configure PKG_CONFIG_PATH=/opt/X11/lib/pkgconfig
make
sudo make installЕсли вы столкнулись с ошибкой, убедитесь, что вы перезапустили сессию после установки сервера xQuartz X11. Если вы получаете ошибку /opt/X11/include/xorg/dixfontstr.h:30:10:fatal error ‘X11/fonts/libxfont2.h’ file not found, необходимо поправить файл dixfontstr.h, прописав #include “/opt/X11/fonts/libxfont2.h” вместо #include “/X11/fonts/libxfont2.h”.
xRDP сервер почти готов. Теперь необходимо настроить его. Давайте откроем файл xrdp.ini.
sudo vi /etc/xrdp/xrdp.iniНайдём секцию в файле со всеми типами сессий.
[Xorg]
name=Xorg
lib=libxup.so
username=ask
password=ask
ip=127.0.0.1
port=-1
code=20
[Xvnc]
name=Xvnc
lib=libvnc.so
username=ask
password=ask
ip=127.0.0.1
port=-1
#xserverbpp=24
#delay_ms=2000
[vnc-any]
name=vnc-any
lib=libvnc.so
ip=ask
port=ask5900
username=na
password=ask
#pamusername=asksame
#pampassword=asksame
#pamsessionmng=127.0.0.1
#delay_ms=2000
[neutrinordp-any]
name=neutrinordp-any
lib=libxrdpneutrinordp.so
ip=ask
port=ask3389
username=ask
password=ask
Я буду подключаться через модуль Xvnc. Используем библиотеку libvnc.dylib вместо libvnc.so. Я закомментирую все модули, которые не буду использовать. Вот так будет выглядеть изменённая секция с типами сессий в файле xrdp.ini.
#[Xorg]
#name=Xorg
#lib=libxup.so
#username=ask
#password=ask
#ip=127.0.0.1
#port=-1
#code=20
[Xvnc]
name=Xvnc
lib=libvnc.dylib
username=ask
password=ask
ip=127.0.0.1
port=5900
xserverbpp=24
#delay_ms=2000
#[vnc-any]
#name=RDP to VNC Connector
#lib=libvnc.so
#ip=127.0.0.1
#port=5900
#username=ask
#password=ask
#xserverbpp=24
#pamusername=asksame
#pampassword=asksame
#pamsessionmng=127.0.0.1
#delay_ms=2000
#[neutrinordp-any]
#name=neutrinordp-any
#lib=libxrdpneutrinordp.so
#ip=ask
#port=ask3389
#username=ask
#password=askПримечание: В редакторе vi нажмите клавишу «i», чтобы войти в режим редактирования. Чтобы сохранить и выйти, нажмите «ESC» и введите :wq!
Теперь запустим демоны xRDP и xRDP-sesman. Они находятся по пути /usr/local/sbin/.
Выполним следующие команды:
sudo /usr/local/sbin/xrdpsudo /usr/local/sbin/xrdp-sesmanПробуем подключиться по RDP. Вводим логин и пароль, нажимаем ENTER.
Если у вас появилось окно авторизации MacOS, значит, всё работает правильно.
Если у вас возникают какие-либо ошибки, смотрите логи. Они находятся по пути:
/var/logs/xrdp.log
/var/logs/xrdp-sesman.logВот таким способом можно предоставить доступ на MAC OS по протоколу RDP. Спасибо за внимание!
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If your Mac is your primary computer, you’ll like to have the ability to connect to it remotely from another computer. This gives you access to your files and folders even when you’re away from your machine.
If your second computer happens to be a Windows machine, you can use the SSH protocol to remote connect to your Mac from your Windows computer. This establishes a very secure connection between two of your computers and lets you work on your Mac files from your Windows machine.
In order to connect a Windows PC to your Mac via SSH, you need to first configure a few options on your Mac. Then you’ll be all set to connect to your Mac from any Windows computer located anywhere in the world.
Enable The Remote Login Feature On Mac
Your Mac has a feature called Remote Login that allows other computers on your network as well as on the Internet to remote connect to your Mac and perform tasks on it. To be able to SSH into your Mac from a Windows PC, you need to first enable this option on your Mac.
- Click on the Apple logo at the top-left corner of your screen and select System Preferences.
- On the following screen, find the option that says Sharing and click on it. It’ll open the sharing settings menu for your Mac.
- The screen that opens has several options letting you share the contents of your Mac. Find the option that says Remote Login in the list and put a tick-mark in its box. This will enable the feature on your Mac.
You are now all set to connect to your Mac from your Windows PC over SSH.
The only thing you now need is the IP address of your Mac. If you’ll be connecting from a Windows machine that is on the same network as your Mac, you’ll need the local IP of your Mac. You then don’t need to enable port forwarding on your router.
If you’ll be connecting from a Windows machine that’s not on your home network, you’ll need the global IP of your Mac. In this case, you’ll need to follow the port forwarding instructions given below to access your Mac remotely.
Find The Local IP Of Your Mac
You’ll find your Mac’s local IP on the Sharing pane you accessed previously. If you’ve closed it already, click on the WiFi icon at the top and select Open Network Preferences.
Your IP address should be listed on the following screen.
Find The Global IP Of Your Mac
You can do a simple Google search to find your IP address on the global Internet.
Head over to Google and search for My IP Address.
Google will let you know your public IP address.
Set Up Port Forwarding On Your Router
If you’re going to be remotely connecting to your Mac from a Windows PC far away from your home and not on your local network, you’ll need to forward the port on your router as shown below.
- Open a new tab in your browser, enter 192.168.1.1 in the address bar, and hit Enter. It’ll open your router’s settings page.
- When the page opens, log in using the default login which is admin and admin for both the fields and continue.
- Click on Forwarding at the top to open your forwarding settings page.
- Click on Port Forwarding on the following screen. Enter 22 and 22 in both port fields. Then, enter the local IP of your Mac in the LAN IP field, tick-mark Enable, and click on OK at the bottom.
All the incoming traffic for your IP on port 22 will now be forwarded to your Mac. The reason you used port 22 is because it’s the port that SSH uses for connections.
Remote Connect To Mac with SSH Using PuTTY
PuTTY is a free SSH client available for Windows machines that lets you easily connect to any remote computer over the SSH protocol. This is what you’ll be using to remote connect to your Mac from your Windows computer.
- Head over to the PuTTY website and download and install the app on your PC.
- Launch the app when it’s installed. The main interface shows several fields you can enter values.
- Put your cursor in the Host Name field and type in the IP address of your Mac.
- Ensure the Port field has 22 in it.
- Select the SSH option to ensure you’re connecting using the SSH protocol.
- Finally, click on Open to open a remote connection to your Mac.
- It’ll ask you to enter the username for your Mac. Enter your Mac username and press Enter.
- You’ll be asked for your user account password. Enter the Mac user account password and press Enter.
- If all goes well, you’ll be connected to your Mac from your Windows PC.
Now that you’re connected, you’ll want to know what things you can do with your SSH connection. Here are some of the basic commands you can run to perform actions on your Mac.
View Files And Folders List
To view the files and folders list for your current directory, you can run the following command.
ls
Change The Directory
To change the current directory in your SSH session, use the following command.
cd new-directory
View File Contents
You can access the contents of a file using an SSH command as follows.
cat file-name.ext
Create a New Folder
SSH lets you create new directories as well. To do it, run the following.
mkdir directory-name
Create a New File
You can even create a new file remotely on your Mac from Windows.
touch file-name.ext
Delete a File
To get rid of a file on your Mac, use the following command on your PC.
rm file-name.ext
In addition to these, SSH has several other commands you can use to perform tasks on your Mac from your PC.
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Controlling your Windows computer remotely using third-party software or the built-in Remote Desktop feature is easy. However, the options for controlling a computer running on a different OS are quite limited.
Although Windows computers dominate the market, many people still use Macbooks that run on OS X. You might want to connect your old Windows PC to a Mac to access some files or programs.
Apple has its own remote access premium shareware called Apple Remote Desktop (ARD.) It comes with powerful features like software distribution and automation to perform repetitive tasks on remote computers. Unfortunately, it’s designed for Mac to Mac and not cross-platform.
In this article, we will be sharing a few methods to remotely access Apple Mac computers from another computer running Windows.
How to Remote to macOS from Windows
- RealVNC – Best for remotely accessing macOS from Windows overall
- Remote IT – Great for connecting users and devices when other solutions fail
- TightVNC – Open-source tool for remotely connecting to computers
- TeamViewer – Great remote access software for remotely connecting computers
- Zoho Assist – User-friendly remote control tool for quickly initiating
- AnyDesk – Excellent for managing remote desktop contacts
- UltraVNC – Great for connecting to a virtual PC or app
- BeyondTrust – Best tool for accessing your desktop securely
- Chrome Remote Desktop – Great for remotely controlling another computer’s desktop
- LogMeIn – Excellent for working remotely with access to remote control tools
1. RealVNC – Best for remotely accessing macOS from Windows overall
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: RealVNC® Limited
RealVNC provides server and client tools for remotely connecting to another computer’s screen. It’s great for people who require 24/7 oversight over their systems to attend to problems when they occur.
You can use RealVNC to access your macOS computer from a Windows PC. It requires proper credentials, access to the internet, and having the software installed on both computers.
On the Mac, download VNC Connect and add your credentials after installing it. Second, download VNC Client on your Windows computer and verify the account from your email. A remote computer will automatically appear on your app screen. Select it to start controlling the device.
You’ll need to enter your desktop login credentials. Once logged in, you can control every aspect of the computer from your remote location.
Pros
- With a stable internet connection, the app takes just a few minutes
- Using the RealVNC server ensures your connection is secure
- The company offers easy-to-follow tutorials to help you get started faster
- Keep your organization connected, saving time and increasing productivity
Cons
- Once your free trial is over, you’ll pay to access the features
Download RealVNC
2. Remote IT – Great for connecting users and devices when other solutions fail
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: RealVNC® Limited
Remote IT helps you connect computers using your browser, desktop, and mobile like they were on the same local network. Getting started with the application is free. It uses a private network to enhance security and provide better performance.
You can use Remote IT to connect to an endpoint or device, even if you don’t have the software installed on the target computer. It offers the option to connect to AWS, Mac, Windows, RasberryPi, Linux, Google Cloud, and Azure, among others.
To connect to Mac normally, download and install the software on the endpoint, register the devices, and add the services you’d like to connect to on port 5900, including SSL, Terraria, and RDP.
Navigate to System Preferences > Sharing and click the box next to Screen Sharing. Click on Allow Access for All Users and exit the window.
On your Windows PC, install any VNC client and open the Remote IT desktop app. The target computer should appear on your desktop under the devices tab. Click on it, log in, and start controlling the computer.
Pros
- The application offers a free plan for non-commercial usage
- You can connect to up to 2000 devices with access to all features
- Connect using a private network with advanced security
- Embed Remote IT on small IOT devices where you cannot install VPNs
Cons
- You need a third-party VNC client to use it
Download Remote IT
3. TightVNC – Open-source tool for remotely connecting to computers
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, iOS, and Android
- Pricing: Free
- Developer: GlavSoft LLC
TightVNC is a free and open-source remote desktop software for accessing and controlling other computers using the internet. It’s made for Windows and Linux, but a commercial license is available for Mac users.
After Screen Sharing your Mac computer with other users, you can use a tool like TightVNC on Windows to connect remotely. First, enable screen sharing then enable a VNC password on your Mac.
Next launch your TightVNC app on your desktop. Type in the IP address from your Mac computer displayed in the Screen Sharing window and click on Connect. Enter your macOS login credentials and start using the computer.
Pros
- The software is free and open source to use
- You connect to the computer directly using the internet
- TightVNC does not require you to create an account
- The application requires minimal configurations
Cons
- The connection is less secure compared to other options
Download TightVNC
4. TeamViewer – Great remote access software for remotely connecting computers
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome OS, Android, iOS, and Raspberry Pi
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a popular remote access software commonly used to provide remote support. It’s easy to use and comes with compelling features such as file transfer, switch sides, conference calls, VoIP, and screen recording. The app works on multiple operating systems, allowing you to control a Mac OS X system from a Windows computer.
You will need to download and install the “HOST” version of TeamViewer on the Mac computer that you want to remotely control. As for the Windows computer that will be controlling the Mac computer, simply download the TeamViewer full version, and install and run it. Enter the ID followed by the password and you’re able to connect to the OS X machine. The ID will not change and always stay the same on the machine.
The TeamViewer Host options can be accessed by clicking on the TeamViewer icon at the menu bar and selecting Preferences. You can change your password, configure the voice, microphone, phone conferencing, access control and etc.
Pros
- The software does not require installing an application on the host computer
- You can screen record, transfer files, and make conference calls
- It’s most suitable for business usage and team collaboration
- The tool is popular, so it’s easy to find solutions to the more pressing problems
Cons
- You might experience performance issues for slow computers
Download TeamViewer
5. Zoho Assist – User-friendly remote control tool for quickly initiating
- Operating System: Web-based
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: Zoho Corporation Pvt. Ltd
Zoho Assist is a user-friendly remote control application for initiating secure remote support and screen-sharing sessions. It assists you to get secure web-based control over remote PCs, laptops, mobile devices, and servers.
The software provides a Mac remote desktop software to help you access your Mac desktops and back-end servers. You get instant access to desktops so you can provide screen support to your customers anytime.
You must create a Zoho account, start a remote desktop protocol, and share your details with the host computer owner to get started. If you’re the owner, create a session and join using your PC and remote control your desktop with ease.
Pros
- The software offers a free account for personal use
- Schedule a session at your convenient time or start now
- When they receive an invite, users can download the shareware and start connecting
- The session remains secure as you only share your ID with respective people
Cons
- You need an enterprise license to access all features
Download Zoho Assist
6. AnyDesk – Excellent for managing remote desktop contacts
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Android, iOS, ChromeOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: AnyDesk Software GmbH
AnyDesk is a remote desktop connection protocol application for managing remote contacts and customers. You can use the software to access personal remote computers or other devices running the app.
You can use AnyDesk to connect any Windows computer to a Mac device. You don’t require an AnyDesk application, but you may need third-party VNC tools. The most recommended tool to use alongside AnyDesk is Atera.
The tool will download AnyDesk automatically on the target computer and enable remote access on your behalf. Copy the given code and paste it into your AnyDesk platform.
Pros
- It’s easy to find and install AnyDesk on a device on the user’s command
- The system saves your previous sessions, so it’s easier to connect to them in the future
- It’s easy to adapt the software to your company’s needs
- Most configurations are done for you by the AnyDesk app
Cons
- The premium version can be expensive to use
Download AnyDesk
7. UltraVNC – Great for connecting to a virtual PC or app
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, and Linux
- Pricing: Free
- Developer: UltraVNC Team
UltraVNC is a free and open-source remote administration or desktop control utility for Windows and Linux. You don’t need to install it on your Mac PC as you can use system settings to share your screen.
To get started, share your screen from the Screen Share preferences on your Mac computer. On the Screen Share screen, select the Computer Settings button and choose VLC Viewers May Control Screen With Password.
On your Windows PC, open UltraVNC viewer and enter your IP address, and select Connect. Type the password you created on your Mac and the app will connect you to your Mac in a few seconds.
Pros
- UltraVNC is free and open-source so you can use it for life
- Use your mouse and keyboard to control other computers
- Great for connecting PCs in your local network
- It comes with features not present on other free versions
Cons
- Many companies consider UltraVNC a security risk
Download UltraVNC
8. BeyondTrust – Best tool for accessing your desktop securely
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Linux, Chrome OS, and web-based
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: BeyondTrust Corporation
BeyondTrust is a company that develops many access management, identity management, privileged remote access, and vulnerability management programs. It ensures that access is managed, monitored, and privileged access.
The platform supports access to Mac, Windows, and Linux simultaneous connections. You can also access your Android and iOS with screen sharing and remote control. The connections are fast, allowing you to manage unattended and grow your business securely with automation.
With privileged remote access, you can secure, manage, and audit team members’ privileges without using a VPN. It brings all appliance-based security that usually requires VPN tunneling, port-forwarding, and firewall configurations.
Pros
- Connect computers without the need for port-forwarding or VPNs
- Screen share your Android, iOS, Mac, Windows, and Linux devices
- See the screen of devices and control devices remotely
- Manage a large pool of devices simultaneously
Cons
- High licensing costs
Download BeyondTrust
9. Chrome Remote Desktop – Great for remotely controlling another computer’s desktop
- Operating System: Web-based
- Pricing: Free
- Developer: Google
Chrome Remote Desktop is a remote desktop software designed for remotely controlling another computer internally. You can install the app to access more shortcuts or use a web browser, which takes up less space.
The downside of the software is that it gives the person connecting to your computer access to your IP and email address, among other critical information. However, if you own the device, then you don’t have to worry about anything.
Pros
- Allow another user to access and control your PC
- Installing a Chrome extension takes a few seconds
- Access another user’s computer by entering a code
- Set up SSH for remote computer connections
Cons
- The tool will share your private information
Download Chrome Remote Desktop
10. LogMeIn – Excellent for working remotely with access to remote control tools
- Operating System: Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Raspberry Pi
- Pricing: Freemium
- Developer: RealVNC® Limited
LogMeIn Free allows you to conveniently remotely control a Mac computer running OS X from Windows through its web interface or the Firefox plugin. You will need to create a free account and log in from the Mac computer.
Click the Add Computer button to download the LogMeIn Installer. After installation, you are able to access that computer from any other computer by logging in to LogMeIn. Do take note that the file transfer feature is disabled in the free version.
Pros
- Remotely control a computer from a remote location
- Access all your desktop files, programs, and information
- Provide high-level customer support by visualizing the problem
- Empowers your team to work from anywhere
Cons
- LogMeIn is an expensive tool
Download LogMeIn Free
How Do I Remotely Control Another Mac?
You don’t need to install additional software to control another Mac remotely; you can remotely control it using your MacOS. To get started, navigate to the Apple menu > System Settings and click General in the sidebar.
Turn on the remote login and click the info button on the right. Next, click Allow full disk access for remote users checkbox on your panel, giving the other computer full access.
Conclusion
If you have multiple computers or workstations, you don’t have to use one at a time. You can operate both computers simultaneously using the same mouse and keyboard. Try the above-mentioned tools to see which is most useful for you.
What do you think about the above-mentioned tools? Have a favorite app that you’d like to share with our readers? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
If you’re a Windows desktop user and need to access your Mac desktop remotely, there are a few ways to do it.
We’ll show you how to connect to your Mac from a Windows PC using a Remote Desktop client as well as some third-party apps.
Do you ever find yourself needing to access a file or application on your desktop computer but you’re not at home? Or maybe you’re traveling and don’t want to lug your laptop with you.
That’s where Parallels Access comes in.
It’s the fastest, simplest, and most reliable way to remotely access your computer from anywhere.
You’ll be able to access all your files, applications, and computers in one place. Plus, it’s secure so you can rest assured that your data is safe.
We’ll also cover some tips on how to control your Mac remotely.
So, whether you’re at home or away, you can easily access and use your Mac desktop from anywhere.
What Is Remote Desktop Connection for Mac?
Remote connection means many things. You can access certain files in an Apple Mac remotely using shared file systems, via FTP.
Screen sharing can also be considered a remote connection since you can see the screen of the computer by sharing the screen remotely via Zoom. But there’s no way to regulate it.
We’ll be examining remote connections for a MacBook with no physical presence.
Can You Connect to a Mac with Remote Desktop Access?
You can use Remote Desktop to connect to a Mac from another computer.
To do this, your administrator and client computers must meet certain requirements.
Mac computers must be running OS X 10.10.5 or later, and the Remote Desktop client software must be version 3.6 or later for Macs. This will allow you to exercise complete control over the remote machine.
You can use Remote Desktop to access files and applications on the remote computer, as well as to share your Mac’s screen with others or provide remote support.
While it is possible to remote control a Mac from Windows, it requires a few extra steps.
First, you need to enable remote login on your Mac.
This can be done by going to System Preferences > Sharing.
Next, select Remote Login and choose which users you want to have access.
Once this is done, you will be able to connect remotely to your Mac from another computer using a Secure Shell (SSH).
This will allow you to use a Secure File Transfer Protocol (SFTP) to remotely access files on your Mac.
How Do I Access a Mac from Windows?
Macs and Windows PCs have always been different beasts when it comes to operating systems, but in recent years, it’s become easier to use a Mac from a Windows PC.
If you need to access files or applications on a Mac from a Windows computer, there are a few different ways you can go about it.
One of the easiest methods is to simply use the built-in file-sharing features of both operating systems.
On the Windows computer, open File Explorer, click Network, and locate the Mac you want to connect to.
Double-click the Mac, then enter the account name and password for the user account. It may take a moment for the Windows computer to show that the Mac is on the network.
Once connected, you can browse the Mac’s file system and even launch applications remotely.
Another option is to use a third-party application like VMware Fusion or Parallels Desktop.
These utilities create a virtual environment on your PC that allows you to run macOS alongside Windows. This can be useful if you need to use specific Mac-only software, but it does require more processing power and memory than simply using file sharing.
Whichever method you choose, connecting to a Mac from a PC is relatively straightforward and can be done without any headaches.
How to Access Your Mac from Another Location
File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
The best technique, but also the easiest method, in sharing files from a Macbook is FTP. You can do either using FTP Client or Terminal with much more convenience. FTP is available as an easy-to-use client.
The robust file manager ForkLift provides all FTP functionality but takes this to an entirely new level and can be an excellent replacement for the Search tool, with the ability to search quickly, preview instantly, and file compare.
DCommander combines speed with the reliability to manage thousands, if not millions, of documents, schedule backups, and even automate transfer processes.
Allow Remote Login to Your Mac from Another Computer
For devices using similar Mac OSes, remote Mac access is possible via Secure Shell (SSH). This allows access from a computer to the computer via SFTP.
You can access your computer remotely using a different computer by entering your username and password. Write these down and keep it secure, as the ability to use Macs makes it more difficult to access.
Do You Need a VPN?
Security should be the priority for every Mac user if they’re using an Internet connection.
In general, it’s advisable to always use a VPN connection with public Wi-Fi networks.
The ability to access any Mac computer is restricted to the ‘View Only’ version — if you don’t want the passwords in your computer.
Having password information hidden on the internet may pose huge security risks to your identity and personal information.
How to Use Your iOS Device As a Remote Mouse?
You can use an iPhone or iPad to control a Mac remotely, just as a mouse could use a desktop or laptop.
Remote Mouse allows you to change an iPhone or iPad to a computer mouse.
Though remote access is the most beneficial, since the closer the device, the better the connection is, it also is possible from any location worldwide if the network has sufficient security and speed.
How to Stay on the Same Page with Screens?
In the modern workplace, collaborations are becoming very important.
Screen technology makes remote computing possible without the need for a computer or location.
Whatever business destination you travel to, keep yourself safe when it comes to storing data.
Native MacOS File Sharing
Usually, people have no idea that Macs are capable of sharing files with other computers or laptop systems.
For this functionality, click on Share in System Preferences to check file share.
AirDrop
Although it doesn’t provide an ideal solution, AirDrop can share files, easily, between different iPhone and iPad devices.
Choose go and then air-drop on both Macs and incoming computers.
Once you have the receiver logo, drag the desired file into the folder for sending.
Share Files between Devices
There have been many ways of sharing and transferring data.
Because emails exist everywhere, they remain the default format for file sharing, although there are obvious shortcomings.
Dropshare
You can send files from Mac to Mac directly to iCloud without needing to download anything, but Dropshare.
The app supports multiple cloud providers, including Dropbox and Google Drive, and can easily transfer your files to its menu bar.
Allow Others to Access Your Computer Using Apple Remote Desktop
Apple Remote Desktop is a powerful tool that allows you to remotely control another Mac.
It can be used for a variety of tasks, such as providing remote technical support or simply accessing files on a different computer.
If you need to allow others to access your Mac using Apple Remote Desktop, you can do so by enabling the “Remote Management” feature in Sharing preferences. This will give users the ability to control your Mac as if they were sitting in front of it.
You can select which tasks they are allowed to perform, such as viewing the screen or opening apps.
Enabling this feature can be helpful if you need to provide remote assistance to someone, or if you simply want to make it easier for others to access your computer.
FAQs
Can a Mac Connect to Windows 10 or 11 Remote?
Microsoft’s Remote Desktop tool is a free way to remotely connect to a Windows 11 computer from your Mac. It’s easy to set up and use, and it lets you access all your Windows apps, files, or anything else on Windows directly from your macOS machine.
You can even use the Microsoft Remote Desktop client to remotely connect to other PCs, such as a work PC from your home computer. All you need is the IP address of the PC you want to connect to and a few other pieces of information.
Once you have those, you can be up and running in minutes. And if you ever need to access your Windows PC from another location, such as a coffee shop or hotel room, the Microsoft Remote Desktop tool makes it easy to do so.
Whether you’re working from home or on the road, the Microsoft Remote Desktop tool is a valuable way to stay connected to your Windows PC.
How Do I Connect My Mac to Windows?
Macs and PCs have always been different, but it’s easier than ever to connect a Mac to Windows.
With the latest operating systems, all you need is a LAN cable or WiFi connection.
Once you’re connected, you can access files on the other computer just like you would any other server.
In the Finder on your Mac, choose Go > Connect to Server.
Click Browse, then find the computer’s name in the Shared section of the Finder sidebar.
Click it to connect.
You may have to click ‘All’ to view all of the connected computers.
Click ‘Connect As’ after you’ve located the shared computer or server.
In some cases, you need the network area or workgroup for the shared computer. If you don’t have this information, contact the computer’s owner or your network administrator.
If needed, provide your password and username.
Next, select ‘shared folders’ or ‘volumes’.
To make it easier to connect to the computer in the future, select “Remember this password in my keychain” to add your username and password for the computer to your keychain.
Now, you can access files on the other computer just like you would any other server.
Can a PC User Switch to a Mac?
These days, switching between operating systems is easier than ever.
If you’re considering making the move from Windows to Mac, there’s no need to worry about losing all your files and preferences.
With the Windows Migration Assistant, you can transfer everything from your Windows PC to your new Mac with just a few clicks.
All you need to do is open the Migration Assistant on both devices and follow the prompts.
Another option is to use third-party migration software. This type of software can typically transfer more types of data than the Windows Migration Assistant, but it may be more expensive.
In no time, you’ll be up and running on your new Mac with all your familiar files and settings intact.
Whichever method you choose, migrating from Windows to Mac is relatively straightforward and should allow you to transition with minimal fuss.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an easy way to connect to and control your Mac from a Windows computer, Remote Desktop is the answer.
With just a few clicks, you can be up and running with full access to all of your files and programs.
Have you tried using Remote Desktop to connect to your Mac?