VNC Server
VNC Server is RealVNC’s remote access host for macOS, letting you share and control a Mac from another device over local or cloud connections.
What is VNC Server?
VNC Server is the host component of RealVNC Connect for remote desktop access. It is installed on the Mac you want to reach remotely and works with VNC Viewer on another computer or mobile device so you can see the screen and control the session from elsewhere. People use it for remote support, unattended access to office or home Macs, and cross-device administration when they are away from the machine. On macOS, it relies on normal system privacy permissions such as Screen Recording and Accessibility so remote viewing and input can work properly. It is designed for use across macOS, Windows, Linux, and mobile workflows, making it useful for both individual users and IT teams that need secure remote access to a desktop.
Key features
- View and control a Mac remotely from another computer or mobile device
- Connect over local networks or through RealVNC Connect’s cloud service
- Support unattended access for devices you need to reach while away
- Use end-to-end encrypted sessions when paired with RealVNC Connect
- Manage remote support and administration across macOS, Windows, and Linux
- Apply user access controls and authentication options for shared environments
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Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
This is legitimate remote access software, but it can capture the screen and accept remote input by design. On macOS, Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions are normal for this purpose, and the app may run in the background so the Mac remains reachable. Keep it only if you use remote access, protect it with a strong account and authentication settings, and remove it if you no longer want the Mac to be accessible remotely.
Recommendation: Keep VNC Server if you use this Mac for remote access or remote support. If you do not use RealVNC anymore, removing it is reasonable and will stop remote connections and background availability for this Mac.
Common paths
/Applications/RealVNC Server.app
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