Configure macOS to allow remote control sessions

Apple has introduced a number of remote support security features, starting with macOS 10.14 (Mojave) that limits Remote Access control on devices prior to user approval. Without approval, the Mac device will not allow interaction with the remote desktop and acts as if it is in View Only mode.

As of macOS 15 (Sonoma) and continuing with macOS 26 (Tahoe), Apple introduced a new permission model for remote desktop applications. This affects how Take Control operates on macOS devices after an OS upgrade.

macOS 15+ introduce a new permission type:

  • Previously: Screen Capture permission (valid for 30 days, required monthly re-approval).
  • Now: Remote Desktop Access permission (does not expire monthly).

OS upgrades reset permissions:

  • When upgrading from macOS 14 or earlier to macOS 15 or later, users must manually re-authorize Take Control using the new permission model.
  • This is expected behavior and not a bug.

How to set macOS permissions for Take Control

Using a Mac user with Admin Permissions:

  1. Go to System Preferences > Security & Privacy.
  2. For each of the Full Disk Access, Accessibility, Remote Desktop and Screen & System Audio Recording sections;
    1. Enable the toggle next to the intended Take Control Agent or Applet.
    2. Enter suitable credentials with admin permissions when prompted.
    3. Quit & Reopen when prompted.
  3. Close the Security & Privacy window to save your settings.
If the Take Control  Agent is installed but not displayed in a section list, perform the following steps:
  1. Select the plus icon under the list and use the Finder to navigate to your Applications folder.
  2. Choose the relevant Take Control Agent and select Open.
  3. The Agent/Applet now appears in the listings.

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