Can I control a Windows computer from a Mac?

In today's world, having the ability to control a Windows PC from a Mac is an incredibly useful skill. Whether you're working from home, remotely accessing files, or providing tech support, being able to switch between systems without skipping a beat can save you time and hassle.

In this article, we'll walk you through how to control Windows PC from Mac with the best methods, including top software choices and step-by-step guides to help you set up remote access quickly and securely.

How to control Windows PC from Mac

There are several options when it comes to remote access software, but not all are created equal. Here are some of the best solutions for controlling a Windows PC from a Mac.

Option 1. AnyViewer - Enhanced control for Windows from Mac

In the business world, macOS is favored for its fast performance and secure file management. However, accessing Windows remotely from a Mac can pose security concerns. AnyViewer offers an easy and secure remote desktop solution for connecting to Windows from a Mac, with end-to-end encryption to ensure privacy.

Designed for seamless collaboration, AnyViewer provides a user-friendly, low-latency experience. Key features include unattended remote access, multi-device support under one account, sound synchronization, and options for remote shutdown and reboot.

How to control a Windows PC from a Mac using AnyViewer

Now that we've highlighted some of the best features of AnyViewer, let's walk through how to set it up on macOS to access Windows.

Step 1. Start by downloading AnyViewer on your Mac. After installing, sign in or register.

Step 2. On your Windows PC, download and log in to AnyViewer as well.

Step 3. After logging into both devices, go to the "Device" tab on your Mac. Your Windows PC should appear in the list. Click on it and select "One-click control." You'll now have remote desktop access to your Windows PC from your Mac.

★Tips: Upgrading to a Professional or Enterprise account offers several benefits, including:

Add more users for unattended remote access.

Control unlimited Windows computers from your Mac simultaneously.

Install AnyViewer on unlimited remote devices in a domain.

Create device groups for easier management of large numbers of devices.

Set roles and permissions to control user access.

Option 2. Microsoft Remote Desktop

Microsoft Remote Desktop is a useful tool for Mac users to connect to Windows PCs from anywhere. Simply install the Remote Desktop Client on your Mac, and you can easily access Windows computers from your macOS device.

How to remotely control a Windows PC from a Mac using Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection

To use Microsoft Remote Desktop on a Mac and set up a connection with a Windows device, follow these steps:

Setting up Windows:

Step 1. Navigate here: Start > Settings > System. Find Remote Desktop on the left pane, and make sure Enable Remote Desktop is turned on.

Step 2. After enabling Remote Desktop on your Windows PC, press "Win + R" to open the Run dialogue box. Type "cmd" and click "OK."

Step 3. In Command Prompt, type "ipconfig" and write the IPv4 address for the Remote Desktop.

Step 4. Type "query user" in the Command Prompt to see the computer's name.

Connecting from Your Mac:

Step 1. Download and install the Microsoft Remote Desktop app on your Mac.

Step 2. Open Microsoft Remote Desktop and click the "+" button. Choose "Desktop" to set up a new connection.

Step 3. Enter the connection details: add a name in the "Friendly name" field, then enter the full domain name of the Windows computer. Click "Add" to save.

Step 4. Double-click the new connection to establish a connection.

Step 5. A prompt will appear requesting your username and password. Enter your MCECS username as "cecs\username" (with the "cecs" prefix) and use your MCECS password for CAT-managed computers.

Step 6. If you see a warning about the server certificate due to internal configurations, click "OK" to proceed. Your Windows desktop will then appear on your Mac.

Potential problems

Here are some issues to keep in mind when using Microsoft Remote Desktop to control Windows from a Mac:

• VPN connection: Before launching Microsoft Remote Desktop, ensure you're connected to the VPN if you're planning to use Microsoft Remote Desktop over the Internet. Otherwise, you'll need to set up Remote Desktop port forwarding.
• Private vs. Public Networks: If the remote Windows computer is set to a Public network (instead of Private or Work), the firewall may block your connection. Change the network setting to "Work" to allow the connection.
• Account not authorized for remote access: The user account you're using must exist on the remote computer and be included in the remote access list. Ensure your account is authorized for access.

Option 3. Chrome Remote Desktop

Chrome Remote Desktop is an excellent tool for remotely accessing another person's computer, and it's just as simple to use on a MacBook as it is on a Windows laptop. Here's how you can control a Windows PC from your Mac using Chrome Remote Desktop.

Set up Chrome Remote Desktop on your Windows PC:

Step 1. Open Chrome, sign in your Google account and go to the Chrome Remote Desktop website.

Step 2. Click on "Remote Access," then click the "Download" button to install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension.

Step 3. Follow the on-screen instructions to add the extension to Chrome.

Step 4. Choose a name for your computer and create a PIN (at least 6 digits) to secure the connection. Your Windows computer is now ready for remote access.

Set up Chrome Remote Desktop on your Mac and control your Windows PC:

Step 1. Open Chrome and navigate to the Chrome Remote Desktop website. Download the app and open it from Finder or Downloads.

Step 2. You must permit Chrome Remote Desktop to control your Mac. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy tab > Accessibility, and check the box next to Chrome Remote Desktop to enable access.

Step 3. After installing the extension, sign in with the same Google account you used on your Windows PC.

Step 4. Under "Remote Devices," you'll see a list of available computers. Your Windows PC should appear. Click on it and enter the PIN you created earlier.

Step 5. You can now control your Windows PC from your Mac. The Windows screen will appear in a window on your Mac, allowing you to interact with it as if you were sitting right in front of it.

Conclusion

In conclusion, learning how to control a Windows PC from a Mac is a useful skill to boost productivity. Among the three options, AnyViewer is highly recommended for its simplicity, security, and reliable performance. It offers easy setup, secure connections with encryption, and smooth remote access, making it the best choice for controlling a Windows PC from a Mac and running Windows apps on a Mac. Whether for work or personal use, AnyViewer provides a straightforward and efficient solution.