Answered: Is There A Quick Assist for Mac?

Can you use Quick Assist on a Mac?

Is there a Quick Assist for Mac?

Quick Assist was created as a Windows-to-Windows support application. It only works when connecting from one Windows 10/11 computer to another Windows 10/11 computer remotely.

According to Microsoft, somehow, you can use the Web version of Quick Assist on MacOS. Quick Assist web app supports Mac with browsers Safari 13.1+ and Safari 14+. If you go to the Microsoft Quick Assist web page on your Mac, you’ll see the following interface asking you to enter the 8-digit security code that was provided to you to get assistance:

Some of you may wonder why it is asking for an 8-digit code and the app only provided a 6-digit code. Because the Quick Assist web app is not designed for regular users. Only authorized Microsoft Representative/Support can generate 8-digit codes. So basically, the web app can be used if they (MS Support) want to remote our PC, but we can’t use it if we want to remote someone’s PC.

In short words, there’s no Windows Quick Assist for Mac that was designed for regular users.

3 alternative ways to provide remote assistance from Mac to Mac

It's unfortunate that there isn't a Quick Assist option for Mac users. Nevertheless, Apple offers several methods for viewing and controlling another Mac through a network connection. Here are the top three ways:

Way 1. Message app

For those who don't want to mess with system settings, the Messages chat app may be the most convenient option. Both Macs used for remote assistance require Apple ID accounts and must be logged into the Messages app.

If you are the one providing the technical assistance:

Step 1. Launch Messages on your Mac. To begin a conversation, click the name of the person you want to help or type a new message. Click the Details button in the upper right corner of the window. When you click the Screen Share button, which looks like two overlapping rectangles, and select Ask to share screen.

Step 2. On the receiver’s Mac, tick Control my screen, and then click Accept to complete.

If you’re the one needing the help, you can also reach out via a Messages buddy and use the “Invite to Share My Screen” option.

Way 2. Screen Sharing app

To remotely control another Mac, utilize the Screen Sharing app on your computer. This built-in utility on Mac computers enables users to view and control another Mac's screen over a network connection. It facilitates collaboration, troubleshooting technical issues, or providing assistance by accessing the desktop interface of the remote Mac from a different location.

Step 1. Start by opening Spotlight on your Mac. You can do this by clicking the magnifying glass icon at the top-right corner of your screen. Alternatively, press the Command + Space Bar keys simultaneously on your keyboard.

Step 2. After that, simply type "Screen Sharing" into the search bar and hit "Enter". Alternatively, you can click on the app using your mouse.

Step 3. Enter the Apple ID of the other Mac you want to access, then click "Connect."

If you're not sure about the Apple ID, find it by clicking the Apple logo at the top-left corner of your screen, then go to "System Preferences" > "Apple ID".

Step 4. The other Mac will then receive a notification in the top-right corner of its screen.

Step 5. Click on "Accept".

Step 6. Opt for "Control my screen".

Step 7. After the other Mac clicks "Accept," you'll be able to control its screen from your Mac and provide remote support.

 Way 3. Apple Remote Desktop app

Apple Remote Desktop is the built-in remote access solution in macOS, developed by Apple Inc. It's a robust tool enabling users to manage and control Mac computers remotely within a network. Administrators can leverage its capabilities for tasks like software deployment, remote assistance, system monitoring, and maintenance.

Step 1. Navigate to "System Preferences" and select "Sharing."

Step 2. Check the box next to "Remote Login" and choose "Allow access for: All users."

Step 3. Next, check the box next to "Remote Management" and configure the settings according to your preferences, including user access permissions.

Step 4. Open the Apple Remote Desktop application on your administrator Mac.

Step 5. Click on "Scanner."

Step 6. Choose "Local Network."

Step 7. Select the computer(s) you wish to add.

Step 8. Drag the selected computers to "All Computers" or a specific group on the sidebar.

Step 9. Enter the standard username and password, then click "Add."

Step 10. Once the remote computers are added, select the one you want to control from the list and click the "Control" button.

Step 11. After establishing a connection, you will gain remote control of the selected Mac computer.

Bonus tip: Provide remote assistance for Windows to Windows

Usually, Quick Assist is used for remote assistance between Windows machines. However, many users have reported significant problems with Quick Assist not functioning properly, causing inconvenience.

For fast and stable remote assistance between Windows computers, it is recommended to use the free remote support software AnyViewer as an alternative to Quick Assist. Compared to Quick Assist, it has the following advantages:

Multi-Windows compatibility: AnyViewer works across various Windows versions, including Windows OS and Server OS. This makes it versatile and suitable for supporting a wide range of devices. Quick Assist, on the other hand, is primarily designed for Windows 10 and 11.

Feature-rich: AnyViewer offers a plethora of features such as file transfer, mobile screen mirroring, multi-session support, and remote rebooting. These features make it a comprehensive solution for remote support and collaboration. Quick Assist provides basic remote assistance features but lacks some of the advanced functionalities found in AnyViewer.

Commercial use: AnyViewer offers both free and paid versions, with the paid versions offering additional features and customization options. It is suitable for both personal and commercial use cases. Quick Assist is more geared towards personal use and lacks the extensive customization options available in AnyViewer.

Security: AnyViewer employs strong encryption protocols to secure remote connections, ensuring data privacy and protection against unauthorized access. While Quick Assist also utilizes encryption for secure connections, AnyViewer has a longer track record and more extensive security features.

Step 1. Download, install, and launch AnyViewer on both your work and home computer. On the Controller computer, go to Log in, and then click Sign up. Fill in the signup information.

 Step 2. Then you can see you successfully logged in to AnyViewer. Your device will automatically be assigned to the account you’ve logged in to. 

Step 3. Log in to the same AnyViewer account on the two devices, then you can achieve a direct connection by clicking One-click control to achieve unattended remote support.

Step 4. After connecting successfully, you’ll see the remote desktop. Then you can completely control it and provide remote support just like you’re sitting in front of it.

The bottom line

In conclusion, there's no Quick Assist for Mac, While Quick Assist is a Windows-specific tool for remote assistance, Mac users can utilize alternative methods to achieve similar functionality. Mac users can resort to built-in options like Messages, Screen Sharing, or Apple Remote Desktop for remote assistance among Mac devices.

Additionally, for remote assistance between Windows computers, alternatives like AnyViewer provide robust features, surpassing the limitations of Quick Assist. With various options available, users can efficiently provide and receive remote support across different platforms.