RealVNC Server - Mac Screen Sharing Authorization Issues

Problem

RealVNC Server is not working properly on macOS due to screen sharing permission issues. Users may experience connection problems or blank screens when attempting to connect to the VNC server.

Cause

macOS requires explicit authorization for applications to capture screen content. If RealVNC Server doesn't have the proper screen sharing permissions, or if these permissions have become corrupted, the service will not function correctly.

Solution

Method 1: Reset Screen Capture Permissions (Recommended)

1. Open Terminal

   • Press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight
   • Type "Terminal" and press Enter

2. Run the reset command

   tccutil reset ScreenCapture
   

3. Restart RealVNC Server

   • The system will prompt you to authorize screen sharing permissions again
   • Grant the necessary permissions when prompted

Method 2: Restart RealVNC Server Services

If Method 1 doesn't resolve the issue, try restarting the RealVNC services:

1. Stop RealVNC Server services

   sudo launchctl unload /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.realvnc.vncserver.plist
   

2. Start RealVNC Server services

   sudo launchctl load /Library/LaunchDaemons/com.realvnc.vncserver.plist
   

3. Alternative: Restart the user agent (if applicable)

   launchctl unload ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.realvnc.vncserver.plist
   launchctl load ~/Library/LaunchAgents/com.realvnc.vncserver.plist
   

Method 3: Manual Permission Check

1. Open System Preferences/Settings

   • Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy > Privacy (macOS Monterey and earlier)
   • Or System Settings > Privacy & Security (macOS Ventura and later)

2. Check Screen Recording permissions

   • Select "Screen Recording" from the left sidebar
   • Ensure RealVNC Server is listed and enabled
   • If not listed, click the "+" button to add it

3. Restart RealVNC Server after making changes

Additional Notes

• Administrator privileges: Some commands require sudo (administrator) access
• macOS version compatibility: These steps work on macOS 10.14 (Mojave) and later
• Service restart: After running any of these commands, you may need to restart the RealVNC Server service or reboot your Mac
• Firewall considerations: Ensure your Mac's firewall allows RealVNC Server connections

Verification

After applying the solution:

1. Try connecting to the VNC server from a client
2. Verify that screen content is visible and interactive
3. Check that mouse and keyboard input work properly