Remote desktop applications have become an essential part of modern IT support, allowing technicians to troubleshoot systems from anywhere. AnyDesk is one of the most popular remote desktop solutions due to its speed, security, and ease of use. However, users frequently encounter the following error while connecting to a Mac:
Missing Permission
Could not start session. Missing screen capture permission on the remote side.
This error prevents the remote technician from viewing or controlling the Mac's screen. Fortunately, the issue is caused by macOS security restrictions and can be resolved by granting the appropriate permissions.
This guide explains why the error occurs, how to fix it, and the best practices for configuring AnyDesk on Apple macOS.
Apple's macOS includes a privacy framework called Transparency, Consent, and Control (TCC). This security system prevents applications from accessing sensitive system resources without explicit user approval.
When AnyDesk attempts to capture the screen remotely, macOS blocks the request unless Screen Recording permission has been granted.
As a result, the remote user receives the message:
"Could not start session. Missing screen capture permission on the remote side."
The problem usually occurs because:
You should have:
Click:
Apple Menu → System Settings
Click:
Apple Menu → System Preferences
Navigate to:
Privacy & Security → Screen & System Audio Recording
(or Screen Recording on older versions)
Locate:
AnyDesk
Enable the toggle.
If prompted:
Close AnyDesk completely.
Reopen the application.
Reconnect the remote session.
Go to:
Privacy & Security → Accessibility
Enable:
Accessibility allows:
Without Accessibility permission, the remote user may see the screen but cannot control the Mac.
Navigate to:
Privacy & Security → Full Disk Access
Enable:
This improves:
If prompted by macOS:
Allow AnyDesk access to:
If voice communication is required:
Go to:
Privacy & Security → Microphone
Enable:
Open:
AnyDesk → Settings → Security
Enable:
Create a strong password.
This allows future remote connections without requiring someone at the Mac.
The remote user should now be able to:
Try:
✔ Screen Recording enabled
✔ Accessibility enabled
✔ Full Disk Access enabled
✔ AnyDesk restarted
✔ Latest AnyDesk installed
✔ Administrator approved permissions
✔ macOS updated
✔ Remote session restarted
Screen Recording permission has not been granted.
Accessibility permission is disabled.
No. Apple requires a local user with administrator rights to approve Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions.
It can help if the application is not appearing in the privacy permissions list, but you must still grant the required permissions afterward.
No, but it is recommended for file transfers and broader system access.
The "Missing Screen Capture Permission" error is one of the most common issues encountered when using AnyDesk on macOS. It is not a software bug but a result of Apple's privacy protections. By granting Screen Recording, Accessibility, and other required permissions, restarting AnyDesk, and ensuring the application is properly installed, you can restore full remote access and provide secure, uninterrupted support. Following these steps ensures that AnyDesk functions reliably on MacBook, iMac, and Mac mini systems while respecting macOS security standards.
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