Using AnyDesk on Mac OS X: A Guide to Overcoming Modifier Key Issues

As a Hackintosh enthusiast, I recently built my first custom Mac and installed Mojave using Multibeast and Clover Configurator. After two days of troubleshooting, I was finally able to get it up and running. However, when I started using AnyDesk, a remote desktop application, I encountered an issue that stumped me for a while.

The problem arose when trying to use shortcuts like Cmd+Tab, Cmd+W, or Cmd+S on my host machine while controlling another macOS machine via AnyDesk. The Command key was not recognized by AnyDesk, making it difficult to navigate and perform actions on the remote machine.

After some research and experimentation, I discovered that the issue was related to the Modifier Keys settings in macOS. To resolve this problem, I had to switch back to the default settings and install Karabiner Elements, a utility designed to customize keyboard shortcuts. By using Karabiner Elements, I could swap the Command and Option keys (Windows and Alt on the keyboard) to ensure that my host machine recognized the correct key combinations.

For instance, with this configuration, Cmd+W would close the AnyDesk window, and Cmd+Tab would switch between applications on my laptop. This solution worked seamlessly for most apps except AnyDesk, which still didn't recognize the Command key.

As I continued to use my new Hackintosh, I began to appreciate the benefits of using a mechanical keyboard, particularly with AnyDesk. Since I had recently purchased a Ducky One2 keyboard with a Windows layout, I wanted to find a way to use it with macOS as well.

To achieve this, I relied on AnyDesk's built-in support for remote keyboard control. By enabling the 'Remote Keyboard' feature in AnyDesk settings, I could send key presses from my mechanical keyboard to the remote machine. This allowed me to maintain consistency across both my Hackintosh and PC setups, ensuring a seamless user experience.

In conclusion, using AnyDesk on Mac OS X with a Windows keyboard layout requires some tweaking of Modifier Keys settings and installation of Karabiner Elements. With these adjustments in place, you can enjoy a hassle-free remote desktop experience, complete with your preferred keyboard shortcuts and layout.

Anydesk mac osx