Help Center

Connecting across networks

RemoScreen doesn't offer a public relay, and the picture never passes through our servers. The connection is chosen automatically for the networks on both sides.

Same network: direct over the local network

When the Mac and iPad are on the same network, they connect directly and instantly.

Different networks: a direct connection is tried

RemoScreen automatically tries IPv6, UDP hole punching and router port mapping (UPnP, NAT-PMP, PCP). Whether it connects depends on both networks, for example whether IPv6 is available and whether the router allows port mapping. Try it on the networks you'll use during the 7-day trial.

No direct connection: through your own relay

Deploy a relay on your own Linux server, for your devices only. When both sides can reach your server, they connect through the relay. It only forwards encrypted data and cannot read the picture, keystrokes or clipboard.

  • The relay only accepts devices with an access key, and you can revoke keys on the server.
  • A key isn't enough: the relay forwards only for devices the Mac has already allowed.
  • Access keys live in each device's keychain and are not synced. You can add several relays, say one at home and one at work.
  • The relay adapts to what actually gets through. 8–16 Mbps of server bandwidth gives a comfortable picture.

Adding a relay

Get a Linux server, a domain and a valid HTTPS certificate, and set up the relay with the deployment guide. Then, on the Mac, iPad and iPhone, open “Connection services → Add server” and enter the server address and access key.

Deployment guide

Related

Use casesControl a Mac remotelyFrom another room or a meeting room, use your iPad or iPhone to control your Mac directly: tap, type with your own keyboard, hear the Mac, and share text and files. Instant on the same network; across networks, through your own relay.
Help CenterSecurity and privacyHow RemoScreen protects your Mac: an 8-digit one-time pairing code, approval on the Mac for every device, encryption for picture and input, a registration service that only helps devices pair, and access you can revoke at any time.
Use casesMac mini without a displayA Mac mini with no display attached can use an iPad or iPhone as its screen: RemoScreen Host creates a Retina display for it, you control it with your fingers, and sound, typing and the clipboard all work. Host is free; the app has a 7-day free trial.

Still have questions?

Write to hello@noysd.com, or send a ticket from Settings → Support tickets in RemoScreen. Our replies appear there too.

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