How to download and install AnyDesk on Mac
AnyDesk is a remote desktop app: it lets someone see and control your Mac, or lets you control another computer. Here is where to get it, how to install it and which permissions macOS needs before a remote session works.
AnyDesk
- macOS 11 or later
- One file for Apple Silicon and Intel
- Free for personal use
Or the installer straight from the developer’s server:
The links go to the developer’s website (anydesk.com, download.anydesk.com). MacWashing is not affiliated with the developer and keeps no installers.
Open Terminal (Applications › Utilities) and run:
brew install --cask anydeskHomebrew downloads the app from the developer’s server, checks the file and puts the app in Applications.
No Homebrew yet? How to install Homebrew: one command from brew.sh.
Before you download
AnyDesk for Mac is one small anydesk.dmg that runs natively on Apple Silicon and Intel Macs. It is free for personal use. Using it for work needs a paid license.
Download AnyDesk only from anydesk.com, and never install it because a stranger on the phone tells you to: scammers use remote access apps to take over Macs and bank accounts.
How to install AnyDesk
- Open
anydesk.dmgin your Downloads folder. - In the window that opens, drag AnyDesk to the Applications folder.
- Eject the AnyDesk disk: click the eject button next to it in the Finder sidebar.
- Open AnyDesk from Applications and click Open when macOS asks about an app downloaded from the internet.
- AnyDesk shows your address: the number the other side needs to connect to your Mac.
AnyDesk also runs straight from the disk image, which is enough for one session of help. To accept connections later, keep it in Applications.
What to set up after installing
Without these permissions, the other side sees a black screen or can’t click anything. Turn them on in System Settings › Privacy & Security:
- Screen & System Audio Recording: turn on AnyDesk so the other side can see your screen, then quit and reopen AnyDesk.
- Accessibility: turn on AnyDesk so the other side can use the mouse and keyboard.
- Unattended access. To connect to this Mac when nobody is at it, set a password for unattended access in AnyDesk’s security settings. Skip it if you only get help now and then.
- The installer. Move
anydesk.dmgfrom Downloads to the Trash once AnyDesk runs.
If AnyDesk won’t install or connect
- «AnyDesk is damaged and can’t be opened». The download was incomplete. Delete it and download it again from AnyDesk’s website.
- AnyDesk doesn’t start on an older Mac. Check your macOS version in About This Mac: the current version needs macOS 11 or later.
- The other side sees a black screen. Turn on Screen & System Audio Recording for AnyDesk and restart AnyDesk.
- Nothing helps. Remove AnyDesk completely and install it again: see how to uninstall AnyDesk on Mac.
Alternatives to AnyDesk
Keep your Mac tidy
System Junk in MacWashing finds the caches and logs apps build up, AnyDesk’s included, and shows how much space they take. And when you no longer need remote access, the Uninstaller removes AnyDesk with its files.
Free trial · macOS 14 or later
Questions and answers
Is AnyDesk for Mac free?
For personal use, yes: connecting to your own computers or helping friends and family. Using it for work or in a company needs a paid license.
Is AnyDesk in the Mac App Store?
No. AnyDesk for Mac comes from AnyDesk’s website, so download it there or install it with Homebrew.
Why does AnyDesk need these permissions?
macOS lets no app see the screen or control the mouse and keyboard without your consent. Screen recording lets the other side see your Mac, and Accessibility lets them work on it.