How to install Sunshine remote desktop on any Mac OS - Step by Step

Summary

The video demonstrates how to install Moonlight on macOS as a client and Sunshine on macOS as a host, then connect from a Windows 11 device.

Installation and setup

• Moonlight client: Download the macOS Universal build from the Moonlight download page on GitHub. The tutorial uses version 6.1. Drag the app into Applications, then allow it to discover devices on the local network.
• Sunshine host: The guide uses Homebrew and Terminal to install Sunshine on macOS. If the Homebrew setup encounters a problem, the tutorial also shows how to download and install Apple’s Command Line Tools for Xcode.
• After installing Sunshine with the provided Terminal command, start it and grant permission to record the screen and audio in macOS System Settings.
• Open Sunshine’s web interface at https://localhost:47990. Continue past the browser’s local-connection warning, create a username and password, and sign in.

Pairing and connecting

1. In Moonlight, select the Mac host. If it isn’t listed, enter the host’s IP address.
2. Moonlight displays a four-digit PIN. In Sunshine’s interface, open the PIN-pairing option, enter the PIN, and name the client.
3. Return to Moonlight and select the unlocked host. The demonstrated options include Desktop and Steam; the presenter chooses Desktop.

Performance and network notes

The presenter tests the connection from a Microsoft Surface running Windows 11 to a MacBook Pro. They describe the mouse response and animations as smooth, with good quality and low latency.

The demonstration uses devices on the same network. Connecting over a different internet connection—for example, using a mobile network to reach a home Mac—is not covered. The presenter refers viewers to a separate video for that setup.

Main speaker/source

• Colin’s Tech Hub presenter — demonstrates the macOS installation, troubleshooting, pairing, and connection test.