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Phone won't connect or slides won't change? Start here

Most connection problems come from the phone and computer not being on the same local network, a firewall on the computer, or a VPN on the phone. Work through the checks below in order; most issues are fixed by the first three.

Download PresentSync for Windows or MacDesktop app for Windows 10 (64-bit) or later and macOS 13 or later; then get the phone app for iPhone or Android.

1. Put both devices on the same network

  • Connect the phone to the same Wi-Fi as the computer, or the same wired network. Mobile data does not work for controlling a meeting.
  • Avoid guest Wi-Fi and public networks in hotels or conferences: many of them stop devices on the network from reaching each other. Use the main network or ask the venue.
  • If the computer is on Ethernet and the phone on Wi-Fi, they must still be part of the same local network.

2. Allow PresentSync through the firewall

  • On Windows, if a firewall prompt appears when PresentSync starts, allow it, at least on private networks. Security software on the computer may also need to allow PresentSync.
  • On a Mac, if macOS asks whether PresentSync may accept incoming connections, choose Allow.

3. Turn off VPN or proxy on the phone

  • A VPN or proxy on the phone can route traffic away from the local network. Turn it off while you present.

4. Scanning the QR code

  • Allow the PresentSync phone app to use the camera when it asks.
  • Sign in on the desktop by scanning the desktop's QR code with the phone app; join a meeting by scanning the meeting QR code shown after you start the meeting.
  • If the QR code is on a projector far away, scan it from the computer's own screen instead.

5. Connected, but the slides do not change

  • Start the slideshow first. Next and Prev act like the arrow keys, so the presentation must be playing as a slideshow.
  • On a Mac, if macOS asks, allow PresentSync in System Settings > Privacy & Security > Accessibility so it can send slide keys.
  • Check that the phone is still in the meeting; if it left, scan the meeting QR code again.
  • Each app starts its slideshow from a different menu: see how to start the slideshow in each app.

Still stuck?

Common questions

Why won't my phone connect to PresentSync on my computer?

Usually because the phone and computer are not on the same local network, the computer's firewall blocks PresentSync, or a VPN or proxy is on in the phone. Use the same Wi-Fi, allow PresentSync in the firewall and turn off VPN or proxy.

Can I use mobile data instead of Wi-Fi?

No. Meeting control needs the phone and the host computer on the same local network.

The phone is connected but the slides do not move. What now?

Start the slideshow on the computer first. On a Mac, allow PresentSync under Privacy & Security > Accessibility if macOS asks.

Last updated 2026-11-15