Chapter 12: Work with Other Computers on a Network

How to…

• Set up your Mac for networking

• Connect to a network

• Share files with other computers

• Use wireless networking

Macs have long offered simple solutions for networking, or connecting several computers together to share files or network services, such as printer sharing or an Internet connection. In the old days, it was easy to connect two Macs by simple cables, and use Apple’s AppleTalk networking protocol to transfer files and share data. Today, all Macs come with Ethernet capabilities, so you can plug your Mac into most networks. And, since you can add an AirPort card to any new or recent Mac, you can even use wireless networking, connecting to networks at home, at work, and in many public places, such as hotels, airports, and coffee shops.

Networking has always been a valuable tool, since computers become more useful when connected to other computers. It has been said that the value of a network increases exponentially as the number of computers on it increases mathematically. Today, the Internet is the ultimate network, connecting computers at all points on the globe. But a local area network allows you to share files with other users, whether at work or at home. Macs can connect to both of these networks easily.

In Chapter 10, I told you all about connecting to the Internet. In this chapter, I’m going to explain how to connect your Mac to a local area network at home, at work, or at school. I’ll also tell you how to share files on your network, how to share an Internet connection, and how to use wireless AirPort networking. You’ll find that networking with a Mac is simple and efficient, and you’ll learn how easy it is to connect your Mac to other computers.