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To control a Windows PC from your Mac, install Windows App on the Mac, enable Remote Desktop on the Windows PC, and add the PC in Windows App using its hostname or IP address. You’ll need a supported Windows edition, a Mac running macOS 12.0 or later, network connectivity to the PC, and an account permitted to access it. You do not need to sign in to Windows App for a direct PC connection.
Check that your devices are ready
- Windows edition: The PC must run Windows Professional, Enterprise, Education, or a Windows Server edition to accept incoming Remote Desktop connections. Windows Home cannot host this connection.
- Mac: Microsoft lists a manufacturer-supported Mac running macOS 12.0 or later for direct connections to a remote PC.
- Network and account: Your Mac must be able to reach the Windows PC, and you need an account authorized to sign in to that PC. A Windows App sign-in is not required for this direct connection.
- Security: Microsoft recommends enabling Remote Desktop only on trusted networks and protecting accounts with strong, unique passwords.
See Microsoft’s Remote Desktop host edition and security guidance and its Windows App prerequisites for remote PCs.
Set up the Windows PC and connect from your Mac
- Install Windows App on the Mac. Get it from the Mac App Store, or use Microsoft’s documented standalone .pkg installer. Open the app after installation. Microsoft’s older Remote Desktop client for macOS has been replaced by Windows App.
- Enable Remote Desktop on the PC. On Windows, open Start > Settings > System > Remote Desktop, switch Enable Remote Desktop to On, and confirm. An administrator or someone with administrative privileges must make this change.
- Add the PC in Windows App. On the Mac, select the + button and choose Add PC.
- Enter the PC address. In PC Name, type the Windows PC’s hostname or IP address. You can also optionally set an account, friendly name, display settings, or device and audio redirection.
- Save and connect. Select Add. In the Devices tab, double-click the PC. If you did not save an account in its settings, enter the remote PC account when prompted.
Microsoft’s Windows App connection guide documents the Mac workflow.
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Connecting when you are away from the PC’s network
A hostname or IP address that works on the PC’s local network is not automatically reachable over the internet. Microsoft identifies a VPN or port forwarding as ways to enable access from outside that network. This requires deliberate network configuration; Windows App does not provide a public-internet relay for a personal PC. Because exposing Remote Desktop increases who may be able to reach the PC, arrange outside access securely and follow Microsoft’s network security guidance.
#1 Best Overall
Anker USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Portable 1 Gbps Network Hub
- The Anker Advantage: Join the 65 million+ powered by our leading technology.
- Instant Internet: Connect to the internet instantly from virtually any USB-C 3.0 device, and enjoy stable connection speeds of up to 1 Gbps.
- Lightweight and Compact: The space-saving and portable design measures just over half an inch thick and weighs about the same as a AA battery.
- Premium Build: Features a sleek aluminum exterior and braided-nylon cable to complement the design of high-end devices.
- What You Get: PowerExpand USB-C to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter, welcome guide, 18-month worry-free warranty, and friendly customer service.
If the connection does not work
- The PC cannot be added or reached: Check that you entered its correct hostname or IP address and that the Mac has network connectivity to it. For a connection outside the local network, the required VPN or port-forwarding configuration must already be in place.
- Windows does not offer the Remote Desktop host setting: Check the PC’s edition. Windows Home cannot accept incoming Remote Desktop connections through this method.
- You cannot enable Remote Desktop: The change requires an administrator or someone with administrative privileges.
- You reach the PC but cannot sign in: Use an account allowed to access that Windows PC; signing in to Windows App itself does not substitute for the PC account.
Microsoft’s Windows Remote Desktop instructions explain host editions and enabling access. If you are connecting to a work workspace or cloud resource rather than your own PC, your organization may provide a different account or setup flow; those connections are not the same as adding a personal PC by name or IP.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 1
Best Value
Sale
UGREEN Revodok 6 in 1 USB C Hub Gigabit Ethernet Adapter with 4K HDMI
- 6 in 1 USB-C Hub: This USB C ethernent hub turns a single USB-C port into 6 ports with a 4K@30Hz HDMI, gigabit ethernet, PD 100W charging and 3x USB-A 3.0.
- Stable Gigabit Ethernet Connection: USB C hub comes with Gigabit RJ45 ethernet port that supports 1000Mbps with faster, more reliable connection, enjoy a smoother online gaming or working experience.
- 4K HD Visuals: USB C Dock is equipped with a 4K@30Hz HDMI port. Enjoy visually stunning movies, high-definition online meetings, or extend your display for incredibly appealing presentations. Note: Does not support HDR/3D.
- PD 100W Fast Charging: Support up to 85W USB C pass-through charging via Type-C port to keep your laptop powered. 15W is reserved for other interface operations.Note: The USB-C port only supports charging and does not support data transmission or video output.
- Fast Data Transfer: Connect various peripheral devices like (wireless or wired) mouse, keyboard, hard drive, USB flash disk. Transfer movies, music, and files at speeds up to 5Gbps, 10 times faster than USB 2.0.
Rank #4
Sale
uni USB C to Ethernet Adapter 1Gbps, Driver Free RJ45 to USB C for Laptop
- 【1Gbps LAN to USB-C Adapter】Obtain stable connection speeds up to 1Gbps; downward compatible with 100Mbps/10Mbps networks. Our Type-C to LAN Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45) Network Adapter supports large downloads at maximum speeds without interruption. (To reach 1Gbps, make sure to use CAT6 & up Ethernet cables.)
- 【Reliable & Endurance Connectivity】Designed specifically for plug-and-play connection between USB-C devices and wired network, provides gigabit ethernet connectivity even when wireless connectivity is Inconsistent or over extended.
- 【Thoughtful Design】Compact and lightweight, with a user-friendly non-slip design for easier plugging and unplugging. Braided nylon cable for extra durability. Premium aluminum casing for better heat dissipation. High-quality USB-C connector provides snug connection with your devices for stable signal transfer. Design to make it easy to connect USB peripherals without blocking adjacent USB-C ports
- 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15/16 Pro/Max, MacBook Pro 16''/15” (2023/2022/2021/2020/2019/2018/2017), MacBook (2019/2018/2017), MacBook Air 13” (2022/2018), iPad Pro (2022/2020/2018); XPS 13/15/17; Surface Book 2; Google Pixelbook, Chromebook, Pixel, Pixel 2; Asus ZenBook. Compatible with Samsung S20/S10/S9/S8/S8+, Note 8/9, Galaxy Tablet Tab A 10.5, and many other USB-C laptops, tablets, and smartphones. (NOT compatible with Nintendo Switch.)
- 【What You Get】 USB C to Ethernet Adapter 1 pack, An effortless 18-month 𝗐𝖺𝗋𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗍𝗒 and 24/7 professional customer service. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to get in touch with us, we solve most issues within 12 hours. Please rest assured we stand behind our products and customers.
Rank #3
Sale
UGREEN USB C to Ethernet Adapter, Plug and Play 1Gbps Aluminum Adapter
- USB-C Meets 1000Mbps Ethernet in Seconds：UGREEN usb c to ethernet adapter supports fast speeds up to 1000Mbps and is backward compatible with 100/10Mbps network. Perfect for work, gaming, streaming, or downloading with a stable, reliable wired connection
- Extend a Ethernet Port for Your Device：This ethernet to usb c adds a Gigabit RJ45 port to your device. It’s the perfect solution for new laptops without built-in Ethernet, devices with damaged LAN ports, or when WiFi is unavailable or unstable
- Plug and Play: This Ethernet adapter is driver-free for Windows 11/10/8.1/8, macOS, Chrome OS, and Android. Drivers are required for Windows XP/7/Vista and Linux, and can be easily installed using our instructions. LED indicator shows status at a glance
- Small Adapter, Big Attention to Detail: The usb c to ethernet features a durable aluminum alloy case for faster heat dissipation than plastic. Its reinforced cable tail and wear-resistant port ensure long-lasting durability. Compact size and easy to carry
- Widely Compatible: The usbc to ethernet adapter is compatible with most laptops, tablets, smartphones, Nintendo Switch, and Steam Deck with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4/3 port, like MacBook Pro/Air, XPS, iPhone 17/16/15 Pro/Pro Max, Mac Mini, Chromebook, iPad
Rank #2
Sale
TP-Link USB C to Ethernet Adapter (UE300C), Compact, Plug & Play
- 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡-𝐒𝐩𝐞𝐞𝐝 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝐄𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐧𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐝𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 - Instantly transform your laptop or tablet’s USB-C port into a reliable wired connection with a 10/100/1000 Mbps RJ45 Ethernet port. Perfect for replacing unstable Wi-Fi in situations that require uninterrupted connectivity, such as online meetings, gaming, and media streaming.
- 𝐔𝐒𝐁-𝐂 𝟑.𝟎 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐅𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐫, 𝐌𝐨𝐫𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 - Experience full Gigabit Ethernet performance over your laptop’s USB-C 3.0 port and elevate your browsing experience to transfer files, play games, video chat, and stream HD videos seamlessly. (To reach 1Gbps, please use CAT6 or up Ethernet cables.)
- 𝐔𝐥𝐭𝐫𝐚-𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐅𝐨𝐥𝐝𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧 - At just 2.8 x 1.0 x 0.6 inches, the UE300C slips easily into your laptop bag or pocket. The lightweight yet durable build makes it perfect for travel, remote work, or quick setup in conference rooms.
- 𝐏𝐥𝐮𝐠 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲- No driver required for Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux (Ubuntu). Simply connect and enjoy instant wired internet access without complicated setup.
- 𝐁𝐫𝐨𝐚𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲- Works seamlessly with most USB-C devices, including MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, Dell XPS, Surface Laptop, Chromebook, and more—making it a versatile network upgrade for home, office, or on-the-go use.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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