The iPhone and Mac apps share a lot of similar buttons and layout functions, so users of both apps can swap back and forth without having to re-learn workflows. Both apps received quick updates for the new iOS 7 design a couple years back. Screens has stayed current, following Apple’s ever-changing design standards. Screens is using industry-standard technology, but with an easy-to-use and beautiful user interface. The client generally connects to the server from port 5900 and allows the client to see the display of the VNC server. You have the VNC server (typically a laptop, server, or desktop) and the VNC client (another laptop, desktop, or mobile device). The original VNC source code is now open source. The lab was later purchased by AT&T, but shut down in 2002. It was created by The Olivetti & Oracle Research Lab back in the late 90s. VNC stands for virtual networking computing.

Accessing a Mac remotely allows you to run desktop applications, have access to a full web browser from iOS, and access files and programs that are only on that one machine. I use remote access to manage a Mac mini at Mac mini colo and my Plex server at home. Accessing a PDF file using PDF Expert that is stored in Dropbox is certainly better than remotely controlling a Mac and opening the document. There are countless ways to sync documents and access them from anywhere.

With the rise of services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and iCloud, remote access services aren’t necessary for simply accessing files remotely. The iOS and Mac apps are free, but the service is prohibitively expensive for most users.įree Productivity Guide: Download our simple guide to productivity to help you improve your workflows and be more focused with your time and attention.

If your machine is behind a corporate network that prohibits Screens from working remotely, we recommend LogMeIn. This removes the requirement to use a static IP address or configure your router manually. It uses industry-standard technology for remote access (VNC), but the free Screens Connect service makes it easy to setup. Screens for Mac and iOS is the best remote access solution for accessing our Macs when away from home.

Logmein for mac prevents screen sharing