Power Mac G5 network

Normally, the Power Macintosh G5 could be used as a target computer in FireWire target disk mode. That is, the G5 would act as an external hard drive when connected to another FireWire-equipped computer (the host).

How to use and troubleshoot FireWire target disk mode – Apple Support

The MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015) does not have FireWire, only Thunderbolt 2. Would it be possible to use an Apple Thunderbolt to FireWire Adapter to make the MacBook Pro a valid host in connection with the G5 in target disk mode? Even if some reports appear to indicate that, tests would probably be required in order to know for sure.

If the G5 is close to the router, you could just connect a plain Ethernet cable to a free LAN port. Details about the TCP/IP configuration and file sharing setup should be available via the Mac OS X help. BTW, which exact G5 model and operating system version are you using?

https://everymac.com/systems/apple/powermac_g5/index-powermac-g5.html

Mac Help could be useful when connecting a 10.14 MacBook Pro to a shared volume on another computer.

MacBook Pro (Retina, 13-inch, Early 2015) - Technical Specifications

See also the following article if the MacBook Pro shall be shared:

Set up file sharing on Mac - Apple Support

Instead of "normal" file sharing, it is possible to set up a G5 as an FTP or web server, allowing access to files on a more modern computer using an FTP client or a web browser.

Regarding USB Wi-Fi adapters: It is absolutely necessary to have drivers compatible with the Mac operating system. It is almost impossible to find USB adapters (capable of handling the latest security standards) for Mac OS X 10.3 and earlier. A few USB adapters have drivers for Mac OS X 10.4 and 10.5.

Wi-Fi may or may not be suitable in this case, depending on the existing router (make/model?), distance/speed/radio channels/interference, et cetera.

If necessary, you could use an Apple Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter if you want to connect the MacBook Pro to a LAN port of the router.

Thunderbolt to Gigabit Ethernet Adapter - Apple

Hello,

If you have a Wi-Fi router with LAN ports, it should be possible to establish a connection between the computers (G5 via Ethernet, MacBook Pro using Wi-Fi).

Otherwise, you should be able to find an appropriate external USB Wi-Fi adapter for the G5. Take a look at what, for example, ASUS, Edimax and TP-Link have to offer. Make sure that you choose an adapter model with support/drivers for the Mac OS X version that you are using (see each manufacturer's downloads page for software details).

Alternatively, you could connect a dedicated wireless Ethernet bridge to the Ethernet port of the G5 (examples include Linksys WET610N and Netgear WNCE2001). Another approach could possibly be a Wi-Fi range extender with wireless Ethernet bridge capabilities (for example, TP-Link RE200). Wireless Ethernet bridge devices do not normally require special drivers, and can thus be used under almost any operating system.

Clarification

>Instead of "normal" file sharing, it is possible to set up a G5 as an FTP or web server, allowing access to files on a more modern computer using an FTP client or a web browser.

Instead of "normal" file sharing, it is possible to set up a G5 as an FTP or web server, allowing access to files there using an FTP client or a web browser on a more modern computer.

Addendum

OWC Thunderbolt 2 docks appear to have a Gigabit Ethernet port as well.

Setting up file sharing on a Power Macintosh G5 running Mac OS X 10.4.11 should be relatively straightforward. If Ethernet is used, one would begin by connecting the computer to a LAN port of a router. System Preferences -> Network should show a connection via Ethernet, typically using a DHCP configuration under the TCP/IP tab. After a restart, the computer should be (automatically) assigned a local IP address. Under System Preferences -> (File) Sharing, one could choose the type of service (such as Personal File Sharing), and the necessary firewall settings, et cetera. Further information/details can be found through a web search for 'file sharing Mac OS X 10.4' or something similar, or via the Mac OS X 10.4 help.

Good luck!

Hello,

Network in what way?

Writing an effective Apple Support Community post

Hello,

It sounds like you want to do a remote desktop session.

https://support.apple.com/guide/mac-help/allow-apple-remote-desktop-to-access-your-mac-mh11851/mac

Thank you for your kind words!

Do not hesitate to post back if there are additional questions.

Jan