How Workbench Connects Remotely
Workbench does not require you to be on the same network as your Mac. As long as both your Mac and your iPad or iPhone have an active internet connection, Workbench can connect from anywhere, including over cellular (5G or LTE).
When a direct connection between your devices is possible, Workbench uses it. If your network environment prevents that, Workbench automatically falls back to a relay server to keep the session going.
Steps if Remote Connection isn't Working
If remote access is not working, run through these basics first:
Both devices are signed into the same Workbench account
Workbench is open and running on your Mac
Remote Access is enabled in Workbench Settings (click ... next to your computer name, then Remote Access Settings)
Prevent Sleep is turned on so your Mac stays awake
You are not running a VPN on both devices at the same time, only one device can have a VPN active at once
Cellular-Specific Issues
Some cellular networks, particularly certain 5G carriers, use carrier-grade NAT (CGNAT).
If your iPhone connects over 5G without issues but your iPad does not, the issue is likely specific to your iPad's cellular network behavior rather than your Mac or Workbench account.
Turn Off Low Data Mode on iPad
Low Data Mode can restrict background network activity in ways that interfere with apps over cellular. Try turning it off:
Go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options
Turn off Low Data Mode
Reopen Workbench and try connecting again
Test via iPhone Hotspot
Connect your iPad to your iPhone's personal hotspot and try Workbench again. If it connects successfully through the hotspot but not over the iPad's own cellular, the problem is specific to your iPad's direct cellular network.
Still Not Connecting?
If you have worked through the steps above and Workbench still will not connect remotely, a diagnostic report helps our team dig in. Reproduce the issue on cellular first, then submit the report and email in to let us know more about your issue.