how to connect anki remote

2 min read 06-02-2025

Anki is a powerful spaced repetition system (SRS) for learning flashcards. But what if you want to review your cards on your phone while commuting, or on your tablet before bed? That's where Anki Remote comes in. This article will guide you through connecting Anki Remote to access your flashcards from any device.

What is Anki Remote?

Anki Remote isn't a separate app; it's a feature within Anki. It allows you to access your Anki decks wirelessly using a web browser on any device—phone, tablet, or computer—connected to the same network as your Anki desktop application. This means you can review your flashcards from anywhere with an internet connection, as long as your Anki desktop application remains running.

Connecting Anki Remote: A Step-by-Step Guide

Connecting Anki Remote is straightforward but requires a few steps. Here's a detailed walkthrough:

Step 1: Ensure Anki is Running and Configured

Start Anki: Make sure Anki is open and running on your computer. This is crucial; Anki Remote acts as a server, and the server needs to be running.
Check your Anki settings: You may need to enable AnkiWeb sync and AnkiConnect. Both are normally enabled by default, but checking is vital. Go to Tools -> Add-ons -> AnkiConnect and ensure it is installed and enabled. Navigate to File -> Preferences -> AnkiWeb and ensure syncing is enabled.
Note your network IP address: Anki Remote uses your computer's IP address to connect. You'll need this in the next step. Find your computer's local IP address (not your public IP) using your operating system's network settings. This is usually a 192.168.x.x or 10.0.x.x address.

Step 2: Access Anki Remote via Web Browser

Open a web browser: On the device you want to use to access your Anki cards (phone, tablet, or another computer), open any web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Safari, etc.).
Enter the Anki Remote URL: In the address bar, type the following, replacing [your_IP_address] with your computer's local IP address from Step 1 and [port_number] with the default port number (8765): http://[your_IP_address]:8765
Press Enter: Your Anki collection should appear, offering you access to your decks and cards.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

Incorrect IP address: Double-check you've entered the correct local IP address of your computer.
Firewall issues: Your firewall might be blocking Anki Remote. Temporarily disable your firewall to test this. If this solves the problem, configure your firewall to allow Anki through.
Port number conflicts: If port 8765 is in use by another application, Anki Remote won't work. Try changing the port number in Anki's settings. Consult Anki's documentation for details on changing port numbers.
Network connectivity: Ensure both your computer and the device you're using are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
AnkiConnect add-on: Verify that the AnkiConnect add-on is correctly installed and enabled in your Anki desktop application.

Enhancing Anki Remote: Tips and Tricks

Mobile optimization: While Anki Remote works on any device, using a tablet or a larger phone screen provides a more comfortable reviewing experience.
Network stability: A strong and stable Wi-Fi connection is crucial for a smooth Anki Remote experience.
AnkiWeb sync: Regularly syncing your Anki deck to AnkiWeb ensures your cards are always up-to-date across all your devices.

By following these steps, you'll be able to connect Anki Remote and access your flashcards from anywhere. Enjoy the convenience of reviewing your cards on the go!