Apple includes a VNC server in every edition of Mac OS X 10.4 and later. You can start the server through a discrete check box in the Sharing preferences.
This article refers to Mac OS X 10.4, aka Tiger. More recent versions are available on our VNC on Mac OS X page.
![Vnc on mac Vnc on mac](/uploads/1/1/8/2/118270185/809378069.png)
There is already VNC-server software builtin to the macOS. Go to System Preferences Sharing and tick the box for Screen Sharing on the left. Notice the Computer Settings button on the right. VNC Enterprise Edition for Mac OS X is composed of two components, VNC Viewer and VNC Server. VNC Server runs within a user session, or attached to the console session, and allows it to be remotely accessed. VNC Viewer is then run by each user who must access those desktops. OS X comes with a VNC server built-in, and screen sharing is the simple client for viewing that server, but other VNC clients should be able to connect with proper authentication. Apple Remote Desktop has a bunch of other features built into it, such as taking complete control of a remote computer, freezing the screen, managing installations.
A VNC server lets you control your Mac from another computer. The other computer does not need to be a Mac; it can be a Windows PC.
There are a number of VNC servers available for the Mac. These are no longer needed with Mac OS X 10.4 and later.
The VNC server built into your Mac is free, easy to switch on, and supported by Apple.
Starting the Mac OS X VNC Server
- Launch the System Preferences. Screenshot 1: Launch System Preferences Netflix for the macbook air.
- Select the Sharing preferences. Screenshot 2: Open the Shared preferences.
- Enable Apple Remote Desktop within the Services panel. Screenshot 3: Enabled Apple Remote Desktop.
- Enable VNC viewers may control screen with password: in the Access Privileges… sheet. Screenshot 4: Enabled VNC viewers.
- Enter a hard to guess pass phrase. You will need this to connect from the remote computer.
- Click OK to save your settings.
![Vnc Vnc](/uploads/1/1/8/2/118270185/377202982.jpg)
Realvnc Connect To Mac
You are now running a VNC server and can connect remotely to your Mac.
To connect you need a VNC viewer. Thankfully these are numerous and many are free.
Vnc Server For Macos
Try the oddly named Chicken of VNC — Wikipedia claims the name is a play on words referencing the Chicken of the Sea Tuna brand.
Why mention this?
Vnc Server Macos High Sierra
The built-in VNC server on Mac OS X appears to be a little known feature. For administrators, and those looking after Macs for distant family members, VNC is fantastic.
If you are looking for an easier, or one off, means of remote access, take a look at Fog Creek's Copilot service.
Hope this helps.