Mac os x web server
This includes the ability to cache system updates. The Caching feature of OS X Server lets you turn the server into a central repository for App Store and iTunes content. This is simply a matter of turning on the feature and specifying a folder to be used, after which your server should automatically appear within the Time Machine section of System Preferences on Macs on the network. OS X Server can act as a Time Machine repository for Macs, essentially turning it into a Time Capsule to which you can again expand almost infinitely.
#MAC OS X WEB SERVER HOW TO#
How to manage Macs on a Windows-based network Backup, caching and more Perhaps more importantly, there are no additional costs, so the procedure is open to just about anybody. The steps required are somewhat long-winded and involve enrolling in theĪpple Deployment Program, which involves generating a security certificate on the server and pairing it with one of Apple’s certificates, but each step is explained clearly and links provided to the relevant websites.
#MAC OS X WEB SERVER INSTALL#
(iOS devices will also need to install a chat app that supports Jabber because the built-in Messages app is locked to iMessage and SMS.)ĭevice Management lets you configure or even lock and wipe Macs and iOS in your organisation or household. mobileconfig file that your users then install and which automates all configuration. Mac and iOS devices then need to be configured to access the server, which is done via the Profile Manager on OS X Server. Configuration is truly as simple as it can be – activating the Messages server, for example, involves simply creating user accounts and then turning it on. On a very simple level its Calendar, Mail, Contacts and Messages server components let you effectively create a private iCloud for your users, although here you can specify your own hostname, such as that of your business. Where OS X Server excels is in offering services geared specifically towards other Macs and iOS devices on the network. A basic working knowledge of security certificates and networking is required but there simply isn’t the insanely steep learning curve that accompanies using Linux or Windows under the same circumstances. For the more ambitious home user who’s overseeing a household full of Apple hardware, a basic setup of a Mac Mini plus a 1TB Thunderbolt drive provides a cheap, powerful and easy-to-use server that can serve files, cache updates, and act as a Time Capsule amongst other things.
However, DIY support can be found at Apple’s forums, or via a Wiki. Support from Apple for OS X Server starts at £4,709 for up to 10 enterprise-level support incidents within the space of one year (12 hours a day, 7 days a week), with a four-hour response for priority one issues (such as server down). It lacks Active Directory support, however, so you may still need a Microsoft server to administer Windows clients.
#MAC OS X WEB SERVER UPDATE#