Should I use my older MBP to build a home network?

Please forgive this most basic of all questions. I want to make the most of an older MBP I must keep in case I have to send in the one I use every day and I've read many suggestions to use it as a home network server. Could someone tell me if this seems worthwhile in a situation where we have 20mbs wireless with adequate storage and file sharing via MobileMe and DropBox. There are three Macs on the network not including two iPod Touches and one iPad. Our backup scenarios are adequate, and while I like the geek-factor of using Time Machine wirelessly to backup the newer MBP, that alone is not enough to justify the server setup. We already print wirelessly to a Canon PIXMA.
Am I missing any features that warrant exploring this further? Thanks for any ideas.

I'm not sure what you're asking. You can install OS X Server on your MBP, but I can't tell from your post what features of OS X Server you're looking to use.
Generally speaking, laptops are not the best platform for servers, but they will work. Some folks bristle when there is mention of a laptop server, some say go for it, and I would say it depends on what the server is needed to do. I've been running a website using a spare copy of 10.4 Server on a G3 iMac for several years - but that's a far cry from using a G3 iMac to really use the functions of OS X Server. If you're satisfied with your backups and file sharing capabilities, a dedicated server may be overkill, and added maintenance. If you want or need more functionality that your current setup provides, then a server is worth considering.
If you're not familiar with OS X Server, there will be a learning curve and possibly some frustration, and you'll want to back up the server as well which may add more work to keeping your network where you want it to be.
So the short answer is, what will the server do?
Jeff

Similar Messages

Any suggestions for building a home network (in a modest...

Any suggestions for building a home network (in a modest 1600 sq. ft. home) with the following requirements...
1) Laptop(s) and PC share broadband (cable) internet connection
2) Access files on PC from laptop(s) and vice versa
3) PC and laptop(s) share printer (Canon Pixma 610)
4) Send media on PC to TV
5) Send music to wireless speakers (not purchased yet)
Note hardware specs:
A) One laptop runs on Windows XP and has an Intel PRO wireless 2915ABG network connection
B) PC runs Windows XP Media Center
I was thinking about the wireless N broadband router 300. From the experiences of the community, will I be able to achieve my goal? Beside a PC adapter, is there any other hardware I will need?
A couple other questions.
The router will likely be sitting right next to my PC. Does the PC need to have a wireless adapter or can it be wired from the router to the PC?
When will the media extender be available? Will it work with Windows XP?
Thank you.
Chris

I personally might not buy Wireless-N, but the idea of being on the bleeding edge is nice.
Anyway, whichever router you choose, you should be able to accomplish almost everything you need.
You'll be able to share your internet amongst all of the computers, and share files between them all. Local firewalls and permission settings on individual computers could potentially pose a problem.
Sending media to your TV may or may not be possible, depending on what other hardware you have. A router itself would not be able to do that, as a TV doesn't usually have any form of WiFi, but if you had a box connected to it for displaying content on the TV, you could do something like that...
Wireless speakers are generally a separate wireless system. As far as I know, there is a wireless transmitter that sits next to the amp (or other sound source), and broadcasts the music wirelessly to the speakers. You'd have to make sure the speakers and wireless router are on different channels as to not cause interference.
Don't know much about the media extender, but highly likely will be compatible with XP.

I used part of my name in my home network. Now I understand this was stupid security error. How can i change the name of my home wifi network, airport express? Thanks.

I used part of my name in my home network. Now I understand this was stupid security error. How can i change the name of my home wifi network, airport express? Thanks.

Open Macintosh HD > Applications > Utilities > AirPort Utility
Click on the picture of the AirPort Express
Click Edit in the smaller window that appears
Click the Wireless tab at the top of the next window
Edit the Wireless Network Name
Keep it short.....maximum 10-12 characters or so. No blank spaces or punctuation marks in the name
Click Update at the lower right of the window to save the new setting and wait a full minute for the AirPort to restart

Using WET610N and WRT320N as bridge within home network

Hi - I have a small home network, in which the DSL modem is some way away from the room in which I do my work. Currently, I use a pair of WAP54G access points to bridge between the two locations, and everything works OK, if slowly.
Today, I bought a WRT320N router and a WET610N bridge to replace the access points, but I having a real problem configuring them to work. I think the basic problem is with the IP addresses that they use. The current configuration is:
DSL Modem -> Access Point -- several yards -- Access Point -> PC
and I want to go to:
DSL Modem -> WRT320N -- several yards -- WET610N -> PC
I guess my basic question is this a reasonable idea or should I be using something different for the WRT320N end? I don't want to change the basic IP address subnet (192.168.1.*) and I want to keep the DSL modem as the default gateway (192.168.1.254). When I installed the WRT320, it assigned itself an IP address of 192.168.0.1 and the WET610N an IP address of 192.168.0.101, and I think the DSL modem also assigned the WRT320 an IP address of 192.168.1.99, so I am a little confused as to which IP addresses I should be setting where.
If anyone can provide some guidance I would be most grateful. Thanks, Martin

I have a similar question, but slightly different and a few things are unclear to me, I will explain:
I want to setup the following:
Internet through DSL-Thompson TG 789 VN router ---> several yards --> Linksys WRT320N --> wired computer netwerk with | | printer
   | |
   ---> Wireless Netwerk --> laptops / phones <--- (WAN depending on strongest signal)
   |
   ---> several servers
The Thompson does the DHCP and routing. It is the gateway through the internet, IP 192.168.2.254 (mask 255.255.255.0).
I can't replace the thompson since it is delivered by my provider. SSID = BertB
I want to achieve that all the compuers / laptops / phone and printer are in one network and can communicate with each other
So the only possibility, as far as I can see, is to set up the Linksys as a bridge.
My question is how I could do this?
I suggest that I have to do the following at the Linksys but have some questions as mentioned below:
SSID = BertB (the same)
channel = different from the channel used by Thompson
DHCP = off
IP = fixed (192.168.2.253)
gateway = 192.168.2.254
DNS = ??? I don't know what to do here ???
Do I have to setup something in the advanced routing, and if so, what?
Firewall --> on or off?
Security --> WPA2/WPA (mixed mode) same as at the thompson?
Security Word --> same as at the thompson?
Is this all, or do I forgot some steps?
Is my assumption OK?
Another question is how the thompson and the Linksys will build a connection with each other, or will this happen automatically through the above setup?
Do I have to put the mac address of the thompson in the Linksys and/or vice versa?
Well this are a lot of questions and I hope someone can help me out.
Many thanks for answering my questions in advance.
Best Regards, Bert Buiskool

Is it possible to use several Apple TV in the same home network?

I´ve got the latest Apple TV (ver 2) and I´m impressed of it´s Airplay function. Is it possible to install an Apple TV in several different rooms of your home, each connected to a separate sound- and/or TV system of that room for playing the same or different music- or picture source from for example an iPhone, iPad or MacBookPro at the same time wireless in each room? Does your home network and Airplay system identify each connected Apple TV as an unique entity?

Yes, multiple Apple TV's in the same home work well (assuming your home network has enough bandwidth), you will need to give each one it's own name for identification (we have 6 Apple TV's here-3 new ones and 3 older versions)

Can i use new TC to connect wirelessly to home network and plug my tv into the time capsule for internet connectivity?

My new tv needs to plug into an ethernet port for internet connectivity.
I'm hoping it can plug into my TC however my TC is wirelessly connected to my current home network... how can i get this to work?
TC version A1470 (i think, brand new)
Many thanks.
Ben

If the TC is connected to a wireless network provided by another Apple router, then the TC extends the network by default, and the Ethernet ports are enabled on the TC.
If the TC is connected to a third party network wirelessly, then it must have been setup to "join" the wireless network. When the TC is set up this way, the TC becomes a wireless hard drive and nothing more. The Ethernet ports are not enabled when the TC "joins" a wireless network.
So, a logical first troubleshooting step would be to confirm "how" the TC is currently set up. To do that.....assuming that you are using a current or recent version of AirPort Utility on your Mac.......
Open AirPort Utility
Click on the TC icon, then click Edit in the smaller window
Click the Wireless tab at the top of the window
Check the setting for Network Mode and report on that

Why can't I use my brand new iphone5 on my home network in Mac OS 10.7.5 and where do I apply for a refund for my phone?

Why can't I use my new iphone5 on my home network in MacOS 10.7.5 and where do I apply for a refund for my phone?

If you want a refund, take it back where you bought it.
As for the rest of your question, until you give us something resembling useful information, like what EXACTLY the problem is, and what error message(s) you're getting, we can't even begin to guess.

Can I connect use 2 airport extremes in an in home network, each at a different ethernet access point?

Can I use 2 airport extremes in the same in home network, each at a different ethernet drop point?

Hi - without knowing anything else about the network and assuming that you mean that they are connected via ethernet to the main router, the answer is yes - they would be configured in bridge mode to "Create a Wireless Network" (because they are hardwired) with the same name and password as the home network.

What flex sdk build should I use with TLF 2.0 build 200?

And what would be the procedure?
Do I just drop textLayout lib instead of existing or I compile and link textLayout library from the source?
thank you

And what would be the procedure?
Do I just drop textLayout lib instead of existing or I compile and link textLayout library from the source?
thank you

HT201673 I would like to use cellular data for internet and my home network for printing, without having to cycle wireless on and off every time I print

the only internet connection I have at my home is a cellular connection. It is very unproductive having to turn wifi on to print and then back off to reconnect to cell service. Looking for options. I own a linksys e2500 router that I currently network through, but it has no internet connection, as no home internet available in my area.

You can have a go using a wireless bridge.. eg the airport express will do this.. you can join it to the iphone wireless running as a hotspot.. and then plugged into the TC wan port.. the TC has to be setup in router mode.. so this is going to give you double NAT errors.. and of course errors for all the time the hotspot is turned off.. but it can work. However you might find it requires you to manually connect up each time.. If you are really going to try and do this you will manage it.. but how fiddly it becomes might put you off after a week.
You will chew up your 5GB very fast using any streaming media even radio. So be very careful to track the usage.
Apple should have built in the TC the ability to plug in a wireless 3G modem.. via the USB but Apple have ceased to do adventurous stuff.
If you give up the TC as main router there are plenty of better products on the market that will handle multiple wan connections.. !!

Airport no longer working only on a single mbp on a single home-network

Hello fellows
Been recently foghting with this strnge,unreported issue,
The macbook pro is a 13" mid 2012 series.
The network router is a D-Link XXXXXXXXXXXX with DSL flat line.
All the other machines in there are just working FINE (1 15"2009 mbpro, 2 12" 2005 ibooks, 2 windows computers,2 tablets, 4 mobile phones) all connected by the same wifi
The faulty macbook pro doesn't connect either on airport and ethernet, a exclamative point icon appears on the top right after turning wifi on.
Until yesterday by sharing internet connection with the ither macbook or ibooks and hook it up via ethernet the connection was working, it stoppped suddenly like the way the airport malfunction started.
On other wifi networks, mobile tethering, on the 13" works perfectly.
Thanks in advance
J

Huh... this seemed to work: http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?messageID=10431834#10431834

What version of AR should I use with Win XP to avoid App Error?

When trying to access a pdf file, I receive the "AcroRd32.exe - Application Error." The description reads: "The exception unknown software exception (OXc0000409) occured in the application at 0X0040492a." Once I close the error, the pdf file is not an issue to open or close.
I'm using Adobe Reader XI (11.0.03) with Win XP and read somewhere that I should be using an older version of AR, like 8 or 9. I hate to go through removing my current app without further advise. I would appreciate help with getting this error issue solved! Thank you.

Thank you Pat. I have disabled Protected Mode, and opened about 4 pdf files without issue, but with the next one, I received the same error message. I don't understand why this error doesn't appear when accessing every pdf file.
As it turns out, sometimes it takes quite a while, often 2 to 5 minutes, for the error to show up. The only thing that changes in the description is the location - sometimes 0x0040122b and sometimes 0x0040492a, but it seems to show up consistently now that I know to wait.

Build an All-APPLE home network from the ground up

I am an Apple/Mac novice, however, I would like to build a home network using an ALL-Apple solution.
Here is what I have: 3-Story, 20,000sqft home.
On the 1st Floor I have a separate DSL line that I would like to have a mix of wired and wireless. 3 sound studios to be wired and the remaining floor (home theater and large entertaining area) requires wireless.
The 2nd and 3rd floor(s) I have a DSL line for "living areas" of the house.
Each floor is roughly 6800sqft, thick walls, high ceilings...
I could at any one time have over 100 users connected to the 1st floor wifi and would also need to be able to connect to the 1st floor from the 3rd floor Master Suite.
I would like to be able to have family members connect to the "living area" wifi anywhere in the house and out near the pool area and not have it broadcast it's network ID. Guests should only connect to the first floor network ID.
There is CAT5 run to most of the house.
Any and all recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Hello netaway. Welcome to the Apple Discussions!
Here is what I have: 3-Story, 20,000sqft home.
On the 1st Floor I have a separate DSL line that I would like to have a mix of wired and wireless. 3 sound studios to be wired and the remaining floor (home theater and large entertaining area) requires wireless.
Your network requirements are fairly complex and will, most likely, best be satisfied by hiring a professional to both design and install your network. Having multiple DSL lines and the requirement to have access throughout a 20,000 sq. ft. home would make it difficult to provide any useable advice without actually being there in person.
With that said, you are basically looking at a "roaming" network configuration. This would necessitate that the home be wired for Ethernet and placing Wireless Access Points at those locations where wireless is desired and Wireless routers (with built-in Ethernet switches) for those locations where you need to support both wired and wireless clients ... like the sound studios and home theater areas.
I would like to be able to have family members connect to the "living area" wifi anywhere in the house and out near the pool area and not have it broadcast it's network ID. Guests should only connect to the first floor network ID.
As you are probably aware, like most wireless routers, the AirPorts also offer the feature to not broadcast their Network Name or SSID ... so that in itself should not pose a problem, but beware that a Network Name can still be "found" is someone wants to access your network. Only wireless encryption with a strong password will provide the necessary security.

Trouble connecting older Gateway desktop to home network

Hi all-
I am trying to connect an older Gateway 5200s desktop (that we have used for internet previously) to my current home network, but I'm not getting any internet connectivity.
Home router is Actiontec M1424 wr rev E.
the old Gateway uses Windows XP Prof v 2002 SP3
The wireless network adapter is 1394 Net Adapter and also the Intel R pro/100 VE network connection
(the Intel adapter says a "network cable is unplugged" and I never knew what that meant- connections have worked in the past)
My current home system is a Dell desktop running Windows Vista home
The old Gateway is up and running, but I just cant seem to figure out what the internet connection problem is.
Any thoughts?
Thanks
Solved!
Go to Solution.

FJT109 wrote:
Hi all-
I am trying to connect an older Gateway 5200s desktop (that we have used for internet previously) to my current home network, but I'm not getting any internet connectivity.
Home router is Actiontec M1424 wr rev E.
the old Gateway uses Windows XP Prof v 2002 SP3
The wireless network adapter is 1394 Net Adapter and also the Intel R pro/100 VE network connection
(the Intel adapter says a "network cable is unplugged" and I never knew what that meant- connections have worked in the past)
My current home system is a Dell desktop running Windows Vista home
The old Gateway is up and running, but I just cant seem to figure out what the internet connection problem is.
Any thoughts?
Thanks
Did you connect wirelessly before with this machine? Whose wireless adapter is the 1394 network adapter? - typically that means a firewire adapter that is not wireless.

MBP Stalls home network

My home network is pretty small. It consists of A wireless router that is hard wired to PC (Desktop) and I use the wireless internet for my mbp. Whenever I am gone and I have my mbp with me the home network works flawlessly (or so I'm told). I could be gone for days and it will never stall. However, whenever I connect my mbp to the network the internet works fine for a while then all of a sudden web pages will stop loading. Not only on my computer but also on the other desktop computer. Basically the whole network stalls. What's strange is even though web pages will no longer load, AIM and bittorrent still work. The only way to remedy the problem is to restart my router (Which is a Belkin if that helps) and I usually have to do that about 4 or five times a day. Any suggestions?

Try changing the channel. Most router are set up at channel 6 or 11. Try channel 9 and see if that helps. What happens if you are connected directly to the router?

Should I use my older MBP to build a home network?

Similar Messages

Maybe you are looking for