MacBridge
Support & Troubleshooting
Need assistance setting up MacBridge, connecting over Wi-Fi, or configuring Lock Mode? Browse the solutions below or email our developer team.
Direct Support Email
Email our technical team directly at: support@macbridge.my.id
When contacting support, please include your Mac model, macOS version, iPad model, and a brief description of your network setup (Wi-Fi, Mobile Hotspot, or Tailscale).
Interactive Troubleshooting & FAQ
Why does connecting time out on hotel or guest Wi-Fi?
Hotel, airport, and cafe guest Wi-Fi networks intentionally enable 'AP/Client Isolation', blocking devices on the same Wi-Fi from opening direct TCP sockets. Solution: Connect both devices to your phone's personal hotspot, plug a direct USB-C cable between iPad and Mac, or use your own private Tailscale mesh network.
How does Lock Mode work with Magic Keyboard?
When Lock Mode is enabled (padlock icon in the toolbar), MacBridge requests system-level priority for keyboard shortcuts. Pressing ⌘Space triggers macOS Spotlight, ⌘Tab switches Mac apps, ⌘H hides the active Mac window, and ⌃← / ⌃→ switches Mac Spaces without escaping back to the iPad home screen.
Does MacBridge work over cellular or outside the home?
Yes! Because MacBridge uses direct Mutual TLS sockets, you can connect from anywhere over your own private VPN (such as Tailscale MagicDNS or WireGuard). MacBridge operates zero cloud relay servers, so you retain 100% data ownership and zero subscription costs.
How does Smart Wake work if my MacBook lid is closed?
MacBridge evaluates whether your Mac is awake or asleep. If asleep and connected to AC power, MacBridge dispatches a validated Wake-on-LAN Magic Packet directly or via an optional local wake relay. Please note: Apple MacBooks on battery power will not wake with the lid closed due to macOS battery protection hardware.
What data does MacBridge collect or send to third parties?
Zero. None. MacBridge has no user accounts, no analytics SDKs, and no diagnostic telemetry. Your screen frames and keyboard strokes exist only in volatile device memory during the active session.
Quick System Diagnostics Checklist
- Screen Recording Permission: On Mac, open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Screen & System Audio Recording → Ensure MacBridge Host is checked.
- Accessibility Permission: On Mac, open System Settings → Privacy & Security → Accessibility → Ensure MacBridge Host is checked to allow pointer and keyboard input.
- Local Network Permission: On iPad, open Settings → Privacy & Security → Local Network → Ensure MacBridge is allowed.
- Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on both Mac and iPad for zero-configuration proximity discovery.