The Best Alternative To Apple Remote Desktop For Mac Users

Ever wanted to keep playing your PC games while you’re away from home — during a break, on a trip, or your daily commute — only to find it frustratingly difficult to connect?

Whether you’re using a phone or tablet, you can remotely control your home computer anytime and play Steam, Epic, or Windows-exclusive games with full freedom. Don’t let distance interrupt your gaming experience!

This article walks you through three practical remote gaming solutions — from high-quality, low-latency performance with DeskIn, to game-focused streaming with Parsec, and even cloud gaming services. Step-by-step, you’ll learn how to easily set up and play your favorite games remotely, turning your gaming dream into reality.

Related Reading

• How To Control Remote PC Games With A Local Gamepad?

• How to Play Android Games on iPhone: Complete Guide for Mobile Gamers in 2025

Method 1: Play Remotely with DeskIn — High Quality, Low Latency

Among many remote access options, DeskIn stands out for its ultra-low latency and exceptionally smooth performance. Unlike business-oriented tools such as TeamViewer or AnyDesk, DeskIn is built specifically for gaming, ensuring every command you make on your phone feels as responsive as playing on your local PC.

Its dedicated streaming engine, powered by ZeroSync® and RTC (Real-Time Communication) technology, can reduce latency to ≤40 milliseconds, delivering seamless performance whether you’re launching a finishing move against a boss or teaming up with friends online.

DeskIn deeply understands gamers’ needs. It provides a complete game control solution — you can customize button layouts on mobile, perform complex combos easily, and connect external controllers compatible with most devices. The built-in Game Mode perfectly maps keyboard and mouse actions to your phone and automatically enables 3D viewing, giving you a full, immersive experience even on a mobile screen.

DeskIn also supports PC-to-PC remote gaming, letting you continue your progress from another computer — perfect for playing at the office or using a Mac to enjoy Windows-exclusive titles. It delivers a professional-grade gaming experience that ordinary remote desktop software simply can’t match.

📥 Click here to download DeskIn

DeskIn: The Top Choice for Remote Gaming

• Ultra HD Graphics: Up to 4K 60FPS / 2K 144FPS streaming with 4:4:4 lossless color sampling for rich, vivid visuals.

• Smooth Gameplay: Industry-leading <40ms latency keeps visuals and controls perfectly in sync — no lag, even in fast-paced games.

• Custom Game Console: Personalize virtual buttons, resize freely, and create your ideal mobile gamepad for complex combos.

• Cross-Platform Support: Fully compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android — play anywhere, anytime.

• 3D Game Mode: Automatically activates immersive 3D perspective for a more realistic experience.

• External Controller Support: Works flawlessly with most controllers on the market, whether wired or wireless.

• Screen Mirroring & Streaming: Mirror your phone screen back to your PC for remote gameplay or live streaming — flexible and convenient.

After review DeskIn’s advantages, let’s walk through the simple setup process to help you start playing your PC games remotely on your phone.

Step 1: Install DeskIn

Install DeskIn on both your host computer and your mobile device. If it’s your first time, register a free account and sign in.
An account keeps your connections secure, makes managing multiple devices easier, and ensures smoother performance.

📥 Click here to download DeskIn

Step 2: Connect Your Phone and Computer

Open DeskIn on both devices. On your phone, enter the connection password (you can customize it for convenience, e.g., “1234567c”).
If both devices are logged into the same account, you can connect instantly without entering a password.

Tap “Connect” — and within seconds, you’re ready to play.

Step 3: Start Playing Remotely

Once connected, you can control your PC directly from your phone’s touchscreen and play any game in your Steam or Epic library — anytime, anywhere.
Whether it’s MapleStory, Lineage, GTA V, or Monster Hunter, you’ll experience the same smooth, full gameplay as if you were on your desktop.

📥 Click here to download DeskIn

Method 2: Use Parsec

Parsec is another excellent remote desktop solution for gamers. It uses advanced hardware-accelerated encoding, delivering near-native gaming performance with latency as low as a few milliseconds.

Compared with standard remote software, Parsec is optimized for gaming — supporting 60FPS high-frame-rate streaming and easy setup. From AAA titles to indie favorites, Parsec lets you enjoy full PC gaming freedom on your devices.

However, the mobile version currently supports only Android, not iOS. Android users can connect via phone or a compatible controller for low-latency play, but Parsec doesn’t offer mobile-side custom controls — making it slightly less flexible than DeskIn.

The following steps focus on using Parsec for PC-to-PC gaming.

Step 1: Install Parsec

Download and install Parsec on both computers, create an account, and sign in on both devices.

Step 2: Set Up Host and Client Computers

• Open Parsec and log in.

• On your main (gaming) computer, click the blue “Share” button to generate a connection link.

• Copy and send the link to your other computer.

• On the client PC, paste the link into the box at the bottom right and click “Join.”

Step 3: Start Playing

Once connected, your desktop will appear, and you can start playing immediately — just like gaming locally.

Method 3: Cloud Gaming Services — Play Without a High-End PC

If you don’t own a powerful gaming computer or want to reduce hardware costs, cloud gaming is a great alternative.
Services like GeForce NOW, Xbox Cloud Gaming, or Steam Cloud Play let you stream games from cloud servers directly to your phone, tablet, or laptop — with no need for high-end hardware.

Benefits

• Easy Setup: Install the official app or log in via browser to start playing instantly.

• Play Anywhere: Enjoy PC or console games at home, while commuting, or at a friend’s place.

• Cost-Effective: No need for expensive GPUs or PCs — enjoy AAA games affordably.

• Auto Updates & Cloud Saves: Games run and save progress in the cloud automatically.

Drawbacks

• Limited game libraries — not all titles are available.

• Most services require monthly subscriptions.

• High-speed internet is a must to maintain quality.

• Limited MOD/customization support.

• Some platforms are not yet available in Asia.

If you prefer full control over your own PC while keeping flexibility for both work and play, DeskIn offers a more versatile, subscription-free solution.

Step 1: Sign Up and Log In

Choose your preferred cloud gaming service, create an account, and install its app — or log in directly through your browser.

Step 2: Choose a Game and Start Streaming

Select your game and click “Play.” The game will stream directly to your device.

Step 3: Customize Controls

Most cloud platforms support on-screen buttons or external controllers for complete control on mobile or tablet.

Whether you want to continue your Steam progress on the go or enjoy a AAA title on your laptop at a café, DeskIn lets you play freely — without distance or hardware limits.

FAQ

How can I play PC games remotely on my phone?

Install remote desktop software on your PC (host) and its companion app on your phone (client). The app streams your PC’s display and controls in real time.
The top recommendation is DeskIn, optimized for gaming with high-quality visuals, near-zero latency, and customizable touch controls for a smooth mobile gaming experience.

What’s the best option for iOS users?

Parsec doesn’t support iOS, so iPhone and iPad users should choose DeskIn — fully compatible with iOS, offering low latency, HD streaming, and virtual gamepad customization.

Which remote software is best for gaming?

When choosing a remote gaming tool, consider latency, video quality, network adaptability, and hardware compatibility.
DeskIn is highly recommended — built for gaming, it delivers zero-lag, high-quality streaming with stable performance even under complex network conditions.

Conclusion

Remote gaming has evolved to offer a truly smooth, cross-device experience.
Whether you want to continue your Steam progress during a commute or play a Windows-exclusive title on your Mac at a friend’s place, the solutions above make it possible.

Among all options, DeskIn is the top pick. Its gaming-optimized zero-latency technology, 4:4:4 color accuracy, and customizable controls solve the key challenges of mobile remote play.
Compared to other tools, DeskIn is easier to set up and maintains outstanding stability — ensuring every action feels instant and natural.

Download DeskIn now and start your new remote gaming experience — free from distance limits, free to enjoy your full PC game library anytime, anywhere.

📥 Click here to download DeskIn

In recent years, data breaches have become increasingly alarming. Just last year alone, over 1 billion records were stolen by hackers — a truly staggering number. What’s even more concerning is that remote control attacks on computers are now more frequent than ever.

According to a study by Check Point Research, between August 2024 and January 2025, the top three targets for cyberattacks in Taiwan were hardware suppliers, government and military agencies, and the manufacturing industry. Whether you’re an individual user or a business, it’s time to take computer security seriously.

If your computer has been acting strangely — for example, your mouse moves on its own, files are mysteriously modified, or the system suddenly slows down — that could be a sign of a hacker intrusion. Sometimes, a remote desktop program you used before may still be secretly running in the background. Once your system is under malicious remote control, not only can your personal data be stolen, but your computer might also be used as a tool to attack others.

This article provides a full guide on how to detect, block, and prevent such threats — helping you regain control of your computer.

Related Reading:

• How To Tell If Someone Is Accessing Your iPhone Remotely

• 4 Best Parental Control App 2025. What Should Pay Attention To When Using.

How to Detect If Your Computer Is Being Remotely Controlled

If you suspect that your computer is being accessed remotely, the first step is to learn how to detect it. Fortunately, you can use built-in system tools and commands to quickly check if someone is secretly accessing your device.

Detect Remote Control on Windows

Windows provides several built-in tools for system inspection. The following three methods can help you identify unusual remote connections quickly.

Method 1: Check Logged-In Users via Command Prompt

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box, type cmd, and hit Enter.

2. In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands:

Code block

1 quser

2 query user

3. Review the results — if you see unfamiliar accounts currently logged in, it may indicate that your computer is being remotely accessed.

Method 2: Check Active Users via Task Manager
This is a straightforward and real-time way to view all logged-in users.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

2. Go to the Users tab.

3. Review the list — under normal circumstances, you should only see your current account.

Method 3: Track Login History via Event Viewer
Event Viewer provides detailed system activity logs, making it perfect for tracing login behavior.

1. Search for and open Event Viewer from the Start menu.

2. Go to Windows Logs > Security.

3. Look for Event ID 4624 (Successful Logon) and check for suspicious remote login entries.

Detect Remote Control on macOS

While macOS uses a different approach, the underlying logic is the same — spotting signs of unauthorized access.

Method 1: Check Screen Sharing Settings

1. Go to System Preferences > Sharing.

2. Verify that Screen Sharing and Remote Login are turned off.

3. If these services are enabled without your knowledge, your system might be compromised — disable them immediately.

Method 2: Monitor Network Connections
Use the built-in Activity Monitor to observe network usage and identify any unusual activity.

How to Block Remote Control on Your Computer

Once you’ve confirmed that your computer is being remotely controlled, it’s time for emergency action. Whether you use Windows or Mac, these methods can help you cut off the connection and stop further control.

Stop Remote Access on Windows

Windows’ built-in Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance features are often exploited by hackers. Disabling them is the first step toward stronger protection.

Method 1: Disable Remote Desktop and Remote Assistance
This is the most direct way to block unauthorized access.

1. Press Win + R, type control, and hit Enter.

2. Go to System and Security > System > Remote settings.

3. In the Remote tab, uncheck Allow Remote Assistance connections to this computer.

4. Select Don’t allow remote connections to this computer and click OK.

Method 2: Adjust Windows Firewall Settings
Even after disabling remote features, you can add extra protection via the firewall.

1. Open Windows Defender Firewall.

2. Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.

3. Click Change settings, then uncheck Remote Assistance and Remote Desktop.

4. Save your changes.

Method 3: Disable Unnecessary Remote Services
Use Services Manager to completely disable remote-related background services.

1. Press Win + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.

2. Locate and disable the following services:

• Remote Desktop Services

• Remote Registry

• Telnet (if enabled)

3. Set their startup type to Disabled.

Stop Remote Access on Mac

macOS manages remote access centrally through System Preferences.

Method 1: Disable Remote Access Features

1. Go to System Preferences > Sharing.

2. Uncheck the following:

• Screen Sharing

• Remote Login

• Remote Management

• Remote Apple Events

3. Ensure all remote access options are turned off.

Method 2: Check and Remove Unknown Apps
Some remote control apps may be installed without your consent.

1. Go to the Applications folder.

2. Look for unfamiliar remote control software — such as TeamViewer, AnyDesk, or Chrome Remote Desktop.

3. If you didn’t install them yourself, remove them immediately.

How to Prevent Future Remote Control Attacks

Emergency actions alone aren’t enough — long-term protection is key. Building a multi-layered security strategy will greatly reduce your risk of remote access attacks.

Strengthen Authentication

• Use complex and unique passwords with uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols.

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA).

• Change passwords regularly and avoid using the same one across multiple services.

Manage Updates and Patches

In 2024, hackers exploited 768 vulnerabilities with CVE numbers — a 20% increase from 2023. Keeping your system updated is crucial.

• Enable automatic system updates.

• Regularly install security patches.

• Keep your antivirus definitions up to date.

Strengthen Network Security

• Use a VPN to encrypt your connection, especially on public Wi-Fi.

• Avoid unsafe public networks.

• Change your router’s default password and review settings regularly.

• Install reputable antivirus software with real-time protection.

• Run full system scans regularly.

• Use secure remote desktop software with encrypted connections.

Use DeskIn for Secure Remote Access

If you truly need to access your computer remotely, choose your software carefully. Many remote tools pose security risks — so only use those with strong protection features.

Among many options, DeskIn stands out for its solid security foundation. It uses advanced AES-256 end-to-end encryption to protect data transfer, along with two-factor authentication to ensure only authorized users can connect. Compared with tools known for security vulnerabilities, DeskIn offers peace of mind.

DeskIn’s Key Security Features:

• End-to-end AES-256 Encryption: Ensures safe data transmission, preventing eavesdropping or man-in-the-middle attacks.

• Multi-factor Authentication: Supports temporary passwords, security codes, or 2FA for flexible security levels.

• Whitelist/Blacklist Access Control: Manage exactly which users or devices can connect.

• Privacy Screen and Auto-Lock: Automatically activates a privacy screen during remote sessions and locks the screen afterward.

• Account Protection: Automatically locks DeskIn when unauthorized accounts attempt to connect.

How to Safely Use DeskIn for Remote Access

1. Download DeskIn only from the official website.

2. Register and set a strong password, then enable 2FA.

3. Configure access permissions and security settings based on your needs.

4. Use a secure connection code or account binding method for remote access.

Conclusion

When it comes to cybersecurity, habits matter most. There’s no permanent solution — it requires ongoing attention and regular updates. Staying vigilant and checking your system frequently can help you enjoy digital convenience without worrying about data leaks or hacking.

If you do need remote access for work, choosing the right tool is crucial. Software like DeskIn, with comprehensive security mechanisms, allows you to work efficiently while minimizing the risk of being remotely controlled.

With the right mindset and reliable tools, remote technology can be your ally — not a security threat.

 📥 Want to give it a try? DeskIn offers a free version — enterprise-grade encryption, safe and secure to use!

In IT, there’s a universal truth: systems never break down when it’s convenient. It’s 3 AM. Your phone buzzes. A server just went rogue. The team’s halfway across the globe. And you’re under a blanket. That’s the reality of modern IT, distributed teams, hybrid work, and the need for always-on support.

The great news is, you do not need to be in the server room or burn the midnight oil keeping those systems running. The right remote monitoring & maintenance (RMM) solution gives you visibility into what's happening, enables you to resolve issues quickly, and even averts problems before they happen.

In this post, we explain the essence of RMM, why it has become so vital to IT teams today, and how it can assist you in managing ever-expanding systems in a secure, flexible as well as scalable manner from anywhere using DeskIn.

👉 Click here to download DeskIn

What is RMM?

Remote monitoring & maintenance, or RMM, is how IT teams can view and fix devices without being in the same room, or even country. You can remotely hop in there, spot what the problem is, and fix it in that location instead of walking right over someone’s desk in order to check why a PC is crawling.

What Does RMM Actually Do?

At its core, remote monitoring & maintenance is to keep your devices healthy and your users productive. It typically includes:

• Monitoring system health: Get a live look at CPU load, RAM usage, disk space, and even how apps behave over time. If someone’s laptop is overheating because 47 Chrome tabs are open, you’ll know.

• Detecting usage patterns:  Know what kind of alerts are being generated frequently and how systems/services are used, or misused, notice the pattern before it gets to your attention due to a production issue.

• Performing updates and diagnostics remotely: Patch security holes, push software updates, and run checks without waiting for someone to bring their device into the office; you can handle it all in real time.

Who uses RMM?

• IT helpdesks: Fix issues quickly without disrupting the user.

• Enterprise IT teams: Manage thousands of devices across multiple sites with ease.

• Managed Service Providers (MSPs): Deliver proactive support that keeps clients running smoothly.

In short, RMM transforms IT from reactive to proactive, letting teams maintain infrastructure without burning out or chasing tickets all day. And in 2025, with devices spread across homes, offices, co-working spaces, and even airports, remote monitoring & maintenance isn’t just helpful, it’s mission-critical.

Why Remote Monitoring Matters in 2025

The way we work has changed, permanently. Offices are optional, teams are global, and IT is expected to support everyone, everywhere, without skipping a beat. In this world, remote monitoring & maintenance isn’t just a convenience, it’s the glue holding modern work together.

Let’s break down why it’s more critical than ever in 2025.

1. The Remote and Hybrid Workforce Is Here to Stay

Back in the day, IT could stroll over with a USB stick and a screwdriver. Not anymore.

Now, your design lead works from a café in Seoul, your marketing team is spread across four cities, and your developer just hopped into a new time zone, again. Supporting this scattered crew means keeping eyes on every device, no matter where it’s plugged in.

That’s where remote monitoring & maintenance shines. It keeps systems visible, updated, and supported, whether users are at home, in the office, or somewhere in between.

2. Downtime Is Expensive

Every minute of downtime bleeds productivity, revenue, and trust. A laggy laptop during a client pitch, a frozen system mid-code deployment, those moments hurt.

With remote monitoring & maintenance, IT can act before trouble hits. You’re not waiting for someone to say, “Hey, something’s wrong.” You’ve already spotted the issue and fixed it before it derails the workday.

3. Real-Time Visibility Stops Bigger Problems

It’s the difference between noticing your car’s engine overheating while cruising on the highway or catching it in the driveway.

With real-time visibility, you can watch CPU spikes, memory leaks, overheating, or unusual activity as they happen. It’s like a live dashboard that lets you step in before small hiccups turn into full-scale crashes.

4. We Live in a Cross-Platform World

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS — today’s work devices speak different languages, and your monitoring tools need to be fluent in all of them.

With solutions like remote desktop, you can manage them all from one place. Whether it’s a MacBook in a music studio, a Windows desktop in a data center, or a mobile device in the field, remote monitoring & maintenance keep them all connected, secure, and running at their peak.

How DeskIn Enables Remote Monitoring & Maintenance

If remote monitoring & maintenance is about keeping systems healthy from anywhere, DeskIn is the all-in-one platform that makes it possible. It gives IT teams the visibility, control, and flexibility they need to act quickly, without juggling multiple tools or relying on on-site visits.

Whether you’re doing remote desktop monitoring, applying updates, or troubleshooting a stubborn error, DeskIn helps you get it done efficiently and securely.

Real-Time Performance Monitoring

DeskIn provides live insight into how each system is running so you can act before small issues turn into downtime.

• Live system performance: View CPU, GPU, memory, storage, and network usage in real time.

• Spot issues early: Identify spikes, bottlenecks, or overheating before they disrupt work.

• Proactive IT maintenance: Monitor trends to keep devices operating at peak performance.

It’s a smarter way to prevent problems instead of waiting for them to happen.

Remote Log Access & Troubleshooting

With DeskIn, IT teams can dig into the details without needing a VPN or physical access.

• Access error logs, performance stats, and software behavior remotely.

• Investigate crashes and OS-level errors quickly.

• Apply fixes on the spot — from ending frozen processes to restarting key services.

This approach keeps remote support tools simple, fast, and effective, so your team spends less time chasing issues and more time solving them.

If you want to dive deeper into how remote access can save you in urgent situations, check out our guide on rescuing your PC from anywhere.

File Transfer & Remote Control

Sometimes monitoring isn’t enough; you need to take action. DeskIn makes this both secure and straightforward.

• Send scripts, updates, or patches directly to the device.

• Take full remote control to guide a user through a fix or handle it yourself.

• Transfer files quickly without interrupting active work.

With these capabilities, remote monitoring & maintenance becomes more than just observation; it’s active, hands-on support from anywhere. And when it comes to moving updates, scripts, or even large files, DeskIn makes it effortless. Learn how to transfer files over remote desktop without slowing down your workflow.

DeskIn is everything you need to go from identifying a problem to resolving it, without leaving your desk. You can download DeskIn now and be ready to monitor, maintain, and take control within minutes.

Use Cases: Who Benefits from DeskIn’s Monitoring Capabilities?

• IT Teams & Helpdesks use DeskIn to track system performance, apply updates, and troubleshoot issues without on-site visits. This keeps downtime low and support workflows efficient.

• Managed Service Providers (MSPs) deliver proactive service by using DeskIn for continuous remote desktop monitoring, bulk updates, and quick fixes across client networks. This means fewer site visits, faster response times, and happier clients.

• Developers & QA teams monitor builds, system health, and application logs in real time. DeskIn lets them spot bottlenecks, troubleshoot errors, and maintain stable environments without interrupting active work.

DeskIn is built to replace outdated tools and streamline your workflow. See why it stands out as one of the best remote IT support solutions for modern teams.

How to Get Started with DeskIn for Remote Monitoring & Maintenance

You can quickly and easily get started with DeskIn to start monitoring and maintaining systems. Here’s all it takes:

1. Download & Install: Go to the DeskIn site and download the application compatible with your operating system, whether it’s PC or Mac.

   

   
   

2. Share Access: Instantly connect two devices using a Device ID and a temporary password.

   

   
   

3. Choose Your Features: Select the features that suit your workflow, from remote control for direct troubleshooting, to terminal access for command-line tasks, to file transfer for sending patches or scripts securely.

Now you’ll have a clear view of system health, the ability to troubleshoot issues instantly, and the tools to keep every endpoint running at peak performance,  all from one platform. Keep every device healthy and every team productive. Get started with DeskIn today.

Keep Systems Healthy, No Matter Where You Are

When your team is distributed over cities and countries, across time zones, getting your systems to be secure and reliable requires the right kind of tools. Along with remote access, DeskIn combines it with remote monitoring & maintenance, all in one platform, to provide IT teams, MSPs (Managed Service Providers), developers, or system admins with whatever they need to work seamlessly from anywhere.

Built for the modern, mobile, and distributed environments, every device stays updated, optimized, and ready to perform. DeskIn makes remote IT simple, fast, and secure, whether you manage a handful of endpoints or hundreds.

Take the complexity out of remote IT, start using DeskIn, and keep every system running at its best. Download DeskIn now.