Screens uses standard networking technologies such as NAT-PMP, PCP and UPnP to automatically configure your router for remote access.
If automatic setup isn't available, your router may require additional configuration.
Before You Begin
- Make sure your Mac is connected directly to your router and not to another router, extender or hotspot.
- Verify that your internet provider does not use Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT).
- If you're using a VPN, temporarily disconnect it and try again.
- After making any changes, click Retry in Screens.
Apple AirPort Base Stations
Automatic setup is enabled by default and no additional configuration is normally required.
eero
- Open the eero app.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Advanced Networking.
- Ensure UPnP is enabled.
UniFi
- Open the UniFi Network application.
- Go to Settings.
- Select Services.
- Enable UPnP.
- Save your changes.
ASUS Routers
- Open the router's web interface.
- Go to WAN.
- Select Internet Connection.
- Enable UPnP.
- Apply the changes.
TP-Link Routers
Archer Series
- Open the router's web interface.
- Go to Advanced.
- Select NAT Forwarding.
- Select UPnP.
- Enable UPnP.
Deco Series
- Open the Deco app.
- Go to More.
- Select Advanced.
- Enable UPnP.
FRITZ!Box
FRITZ!Box routers may require additional per-device permissions before applications can create port mappings.
Enable UPnP Support
- Open the FRITZ!Box web interface.
- Go to Home Network > Network > Network Settings.
- Enable Transmit status information over UPnP.
- Enable Allow changes to security settings over UPnP.
- Apply the changes.
Allow Port Sharing for Your Mac
- Open Home Network > Network.
- Select your Mac.
- Open the Home Network tab.
- Enable the option that allows the device to create its own port mappings.
Depending on your FRITZ!Box model and FRITZ!OS version, this option may appear as:
- Allow independent port sharing for this device over IPv4
- Allow this device to create port sharing entries
- Similar wording referring to automatic port sharing
- Save the changes.
- Return to Screens and click Retry.
ISP-Supplied Routers
Some internet providers disable NAT-PMP, PCP or UPnP entirely.
If automatic setup isn't available after enabling all relevant settings:
- Contact your internet provider.
- Ask whether NAT-PMP, PCP or UPnP is supported.
- Ask whether your connection uses Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT).
Still Having Trouble?
If automatic setup remains unavailable:
- Restart your router.
- Restart your Mac.
- Try the setup again.
- Consider using Tailscale as an alternative remote access solution.
For more information, see: