AnyDesk Mouse Not Working: How to Fix It Quickly

The AnyDesk remote screen remains visible and the connection is stable, yet the remote mouse suddenly stops working. Simple actions like clicking, dragging, or opening applications fail to register. What is causing this issue?

This guide covers the most common causes of the problem and the practical fixes you can try before switching to an alternative.

What Causes AnyDesk Mouse Not Working?

In most cases, the problem comes down to permissions, system restrictions, outdated software or settings on the device being controlled.

1. Remote Mouse and Keyboard Control Is Disabled

If mouse and keyboard control is disabled, you may only be able to view the remote screen without interacting with it. Please check the "Permissions" menu during the session or review the permission settings on the remote device.

2. Windows UAC or Administrator Restrictions

Some protected Windows interfaces, such as UAC prompts and administrative applications, require elevated privileges. Without them, AnyDesk may restrict remote input, and you may see a prohibited cursor or, in some UAC scenarios, a black screen.

3. macOS Has Not Granted the Required Permissions

On Mac, Accessibility permission is required for remote mouse and keyboard control. Screen Recording and Full Disk Access support other remote functions, such as screen access and file transfer.

4. Android Requires Additional Input Support

Android handles remote input differently from desktop systems. AnyDesk may require a compatible control plugin, which the app can detect and prompt you to install.

How to Fix AnyDesk Mouse Not Working

Try these troubleshooting steps in order, starting with the simplest fixes.

1. Check the Mouse and Reconnect

Start by checking whether the physical mouse works normally. You can try switching USB ports, reconnecting the wireless receiver, or testing a different mouse to verify that the hardware is working properly.

If the mouse works fine outside of AnyDesk, please fully close the application on both devices and reconnect. If the issue persists, restart both devices and try again.

2. Check AnyDesk Mouse and Keyboard Permissions

If you can see the remote screen during a session but cannot perform mouse clicks, please open the "Permissions" menu on the session toolbar and ensure that the "Control remote client's mouse and keyboard" feature is enabled. If this option is unavailable, the remote device may be restricting input operations through its permission settings.

3. Check Windows Administrator and UAC Permissions

If the mouse becomes unresponsive when opening Task Manager or System Settings, or when encountering a UAC prompt, AnyDesk may require elevated privileges to control protected interfaces.

Try installing AnyDesk on the remote Windows computer or running the program as an administrator. If a UAC prompt appears during a session, select Actions > Request elevation and have the remote user approve the request.

4. Check Platform-Specific Settings

On macOS, go to System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility and ensure AnyDesk is enabled. Remote mouse and keyboard control requires Accessibility permissions.

On Android, to enable full remote input functionality, you need to install the compatible AnyDesk control plugin. Follow the in-app prompts to install the required plugin, then enable it under Settings > Accessibility.

5. Check the Cursor Settings and Update AnyDesk

If the cursor disappears or behaves abnormally, please check the AnyDesk display settings, including the "Show remote cursor" and "Capture mouse" options.

If the issue persists after troubleshooting, you might also consider using an alternative to AnyDesk.

AweSun: An AnyDesk Alternative for Remote Access

If the methods mentioned above have not worked for you, you might need an alternative remote desktop solution to ensure uninterrupted work. AweSun is an excellent choice.

AweSun is a remote desktop and remote session application for personal PC access, remote work, IT support, file transfer, and remote gaming. It offers smooth, responsive mouse and keyboard control during remote sessions, which makes it a practical AnyDesk alternative. With cross-device access, remote control, file transfer, and unattended access in one tool, you can stay productive without worrying about your input dropping out.

• Simple Setup: Install the app, sign in, and connect using the device ID; it is intuitive and easy for beginners to master.
• Cross-Device Access: Supports cross-platform control across major operating systems and devices, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS.
• Versatile Features: Offers a wide range of features—such as unattended access, file transfer, privacy screen, and multi-monitor support—to suit various use cases.
• Performance: High-performance modes deliver up to 4K@144fps or 8K@60fps visual quality in supported scenarios, featuring True Color 4:4:4 for accurate color reproduction.
• Security: Includes encrypted connections, device authorization, authentication, access controls, and privacy protection.

FAQ

Why can I control some applications in AnyDesk but not others?

This usually happens when the application you are trying to control is running with higher privileges than AnyDesk itself. If standard applications work fine but administrative tools or windows protected by UAC (User Account Control) do not respond, try using the "Actions" > "Request elevation" feature, or run AnyDesk with the appropriate administrator privileges.

Why can I move the cursor but cannot click on the Mac?

Check if Accessibility permissions are enabled for AnyDesk on the remote Mac.

Does a missing remote cursor mean the mouse is broken?

Not necessarily. AnyDesk has specific settings for showing or hiding the remote cursor, so check the cursor display configuration first. If the cursor is still missing, verify the session permissions and reconnect.

Are there alternatives to AnyDesk if mouse control issues persist?

Yes. Trying an AnyDesk alternative can help determine whether the problem stems from the software itself or your device configuration. AweSun is a great choice; it supports cross-platform remote control (covering Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS) and offers a wide range of features suitable for various scenarios.

What should you consider when choosing an AnyDesk alternative?

First, consider your actual remote access habits—such as cross-device compatibility, unattended access, or file transfer capabilities—and determine which features are indispensable to you. Professional remote access tools like AweSun not only support remote control and multi-device access but also integrate other practical features designed specifically for remote work, remote gaming, and IT support scenarios.

Conclusion

When the usual fixes do not solve the problem, switching tools can be a practical next step—especially if remote control is part of your everyday workflow. AweSun provides cross-device remote access with features such as remote control, file transfer, and unattended access.

Give AweSun a try and see if it meets your remote connection needs.