How to Remote in to Another MacBook Over the Internet

Method 1: Apple’s Screen Sharing

Please note, this method works best when both MacBooks are on the same Apple ID and iCloud account, and when both MacBooks are running at least macOS Catalina (10.15).

1. On the MacBook you want to control, go to System Preferences > Sharing.
2. Check the box next to “Screen Sharing.” If “Remote Management” is checked, you’ll need to uncheck it before you can enable Screen Sharing.
3. A list of users who can access your screen will appear. If needed, click the ‘+’ button to add new users.
4. On the MacBook, you’ll be controlling from, open Finder, and look under the “Shared” section in the sidebar.
5. You should see the other MacBook listed. Click on it, and then click “Share Screen…”
6. If prompted, enter your Apple ID credentials.

Remember, both devices need to be on the same iCloud account for this method to work best.

Method 2: Chrome Remote Desktop

Google’s Chrome Remote Desktop tool is a great free alternative if you’re not on the same iCloud account or using different types of devices (like a Windows PC or an Android phone).

1. Install Google Chrome on both MacBooks, if not already installed.
2. Install the Chrome Remote Desktop extension on both machines from the Chrome Web Store.
3. On the MacBook you want to control, open Chrome Remote Desktop and click “Get Started” under “My Computers”.
4. Click on “Enable remote connections”, then download and install the Chrome Remote Desktop host when prompted.
5. Set a PIN for the remote connection when prompted.
6. On the MacBook, you’ll be controlling from, open Chrome Remote Desktop and click “Get Started” under “My Computers”.
7. You should see the other MacBook listed. Click on it and enter the PIN you set earlier.

In addition to Apple’s Screen Sharing and Chrome Remote Desktop, TeamViewer is another powerful third-party software that’s widely used for remote access across multiple platforms, including Mac. Here’s how to set it up:

Method 3: TeamViewer

1. Download TeamViewer from the official website on both MacBooks. Make sure to select the full version for the computer you want to control, and you can choose the full version or the quick support version for the controlling computer.
2. Install TeamViewer by opening the downloaded file and following the on-screen instructions.
3. After installation, open TeamViewer on both MacBooks. On the MacBook you want to control, note down the “Your ID” and “Password” displayed in the “Allow Remote Control” section of the TeamViewer window.
4. On the MacBook you want to control from, enter the ID of the other MacBook in the “Partner ID” field under “Control Remote Computer” and click “Connect”.
5. When prompted, enter the password you noted down earlier.
6. You should now be connected and can control the other MacBook over the internet.

Remember that TeamViewer offers a free version for personal use, but if you’re using it for commercial purposes, you’ll need to purchase a license. Additionally, for a secure experience, make sure to keep your TeamViewer software up-to-date and don’t share your TeamViewer ID or password with anyone you don’t trust.

With either method, you should now be able to remotely control the other MacBook over the internet. Please note that the experience will depend on the internet connection speed on both ends.