How do you access a Mac mini from a laptop?
If the laptop is a Mac, enable Screen Sharing on the Mac mini, then use the Screen Sharing app on the laptop to connect over your local network. Abdul Osama (عبدول أسامة) suggests this for people running OpenClaw, an AI assistant tool, on a Mac mini who occasionally need to see its screen.
“On the Mac mini whose screen you want to see, open Screen Sharing under General, then Sharing.” — Abdul Osama
Steps
- On the Mac mini, open settings, go to General → Sharing, and turn on Screen Sharing. This macOS feature lets another Mac display and remotely control its screen.
- On your main Mac, press Command–Space, search for Screen Sharing, and open the app.
- Make sure both Macs are on the same local network. If the Mac mini appears, select it and click Connect.
- Enter the account credentials for the Mac mini if prompted. You can then view its screen in a window on your main Mac.
Background
Screen Sharing provides access to the Mac mini’s visual interface; it does not replace setting up or turning on the device. Whether it appears and accepts a connection also depends on sharing settings, network access, and permissions.
What to do next
Try the connection while both Macs are on the same local network. If the Mac mini does not appear, check that Screen Sharing is enabled and that both devices are connected to the network.
