If you can connect to your computer while you're on the same local network but cannot connect while away, Screens itself and the Screen Sharing or VNC service on the remote computer are most likely working correctly.
The problem is usually with the method used to reach the computer from outside its local network.
Check Your Remote Access Method
Screens supports several ways to connect to your computer remotely, including Screens Connect, Tailscale, and NordVPN Meshnet.
You can learn about the available options here:
Screens Connect
If you're using Screens Connect, check its status on the computer you want to connect to.
Screens Connect normally configures your router automatically so incoming connections can reach your computer. However, some routers, Internet providers, firewalls, VPNs, managed networks, or other network configurations may prevent this.
If Screens Connect reports a problem with Remote Access or port mapping, first try restarting both:
- The computer you want to connect to.
- The router at that location.
Once both have restarted, check the Screens Connect status again.
If the problem persists, refer to the Screens Connect troubleshooting section:
Screens Connect Troubleshooting
Using a Managed or Restricted Network
If the remote computer is on a work, school, hotel, institutional, or other managed network, incoming connections may be intentionally restricted.
See:
Connecting from a Managed or Restricted Network
You may need to contact the person or organization responsible for that network.
Configure Screens Connect Manually
If your router cannot be configured automatically, you can configure port forwarding manually.
Follow these instructions:
Configure Screens Connect Manually
Your router manufacturer's or Internet provider's documentation may also provide specific instructions for configuring port forwarding on your equipment.
Use Tailscale
If you'd rather not troubleshoot or configure your router, Tailscale may be the easiest solution.
Tailscale is natively supported by Screens and allows Screens to reach your computer remotely without requiring incoming port forwarding.
You'll still use Screens normally — Tailscale simply provides the network connection between your devices.
Make Sure Your Mac Can Wake Up
If you're connecting to a Mac, make sure it is connected to a power source and that Wake for network access is enabled.
Otherwise, the Mac may not wake when you try to connect remotely.
Still Having Trouble?
If local connections continue to work but you're unable to connect remotely after following the instructions above, the problem may be caused by your router, Internet provider, firewall, VPN, or another part of the network configuration.
Screens cannot control or configure these external systems. Your Internet provider, network administrator, router manufacturer, or another qualified network support provider may be able to help determine what is preventing incoming connections.