Enable Screen Sharing in Zoom on a Mac

Questions

  • How do I enable screen sharing in Zoom on my Mac?
  • Why can't I share my screen in Zoom on a Mac?
  • Zoom is asking me to change permissions to share my screen — what do I do?
  • How do I give Zoom permission to record my screen on macOS?
  • I see "Open system settings" when I try to share my screen in Zoom — what do I do next?
  • Zoom screen sharing is not working on my Bowdoin Mac — how do I fix it?

Environment

This article applies to Bowdoin faculty, staff, and students using the Zoom desktop app on a Mac running macOS Sequoia (15.x) or later. macOS requires explicit permission for Zoom to record the screen — this is a one-time setup that must be completed the first time you share your screen.

Resolution

  1. In a Zoom meeting, click Share Screen in the toolbar at the bottom of the meeting window.
  2. Select Desktop from the sharing options and click Share.
  3. When prompted with a message about screen recording permissions, click Open System Settings.
  4. In System Settings, locate Zoom in the list and check its checkbox to enable screen recording permission.
  5. When prompted, enter your Mac's login password and click Modify Settings.
If the username field is blank: Your account may not have administrator permissions. Open the Privileges app on your Mac and request administrator access. Once granted, return to this step and enter the username and password for the administrator account on the device.
  1. When asked whether to quit and reopen Zoom:
    • If you are not currently in a meeting, click Quit & Reopen. Zoom will restart with screen sharing enabled.
    • If you are in the middle of a meeting, click Later. Screen sharing will not work for the current session — you will need to quit and reopen Zoom before your next meeting.
One-time setup: Once you grant screen recording permission, Zoom retains it for future meetings. You will not need to repeat these steps unless macOS is reinstalled or Zoom is removed and reinstalled.

Additional Help

If you need further assistance, you have several options:

  • Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
  • Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
  • In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
  • Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.
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