In almost all cases no, you do not need to install the AirServer Connect app to mirror to AirServer.

Modern phones, tablets, and laptops have screen mirroring built in through AirPlay, Google Cast, and Miracast. 

AirServer supports these protocols natively, so your device can find and connect to AirServer without any extra app.

What is the AirServer Connect app?

The AirServer Connect app is a helper tool for situations where your device can't find AirServer automatically. It works by scanning a QR code shown by AirServer, which then connects your device to it directly.

The app is available in the iOS App Store and the Google Play Store.

When might the app help?

The app is only useful in specific network setups, most commonly on school or corporate networks where the network configuration prevents your device from discovering AirServer normally. In these cases, the app provides a way to connect anyway.

Do I need this at home?

No. Home networks almost never have the restrictions that would make this app useful. If you're mirroring at home and AirServer doesn't appear in your device's mirroring list, the cause is almost always something else, not a missing helper app. See the troubleshooting section for AirServer Universal, AirServer Windows 10 Desktop Edition or AirServer for Mac.

A note for IT administrators

If your users need the Connect app to mirror at your organization, the underlying issue is a network configuration that blocks discovery between devices. Fixing the network configuration (enabling mDNS/Bonjour, adjusting VLAN routing, allowing multicast) is a better long-term solution than requiring every user to install the app. 

How to use the app

For step-by-step instructions, see How can I screen mirror to AirServer using the AirServer Connect app?