Connecting two iMacs with an Ethernet Cable

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Level 1

8 points

Connecting two iMacs with an Ethernet Cable

I need to connect two iMacs with an ethernet cable. I have successfully done this on my network through WiFi, so the permissions are all ok. But I need faster file transfer speeds. I followed the instructions on how to do this, and it seems that I simply connect the two ethernet ports with a standard Ethernet cable (not a crossover cable).

The problem: having done this, neither computer displays the other in the Finder Window or in the GO > CONNECT TO SERVER > BROWSE.

What could be wrong? (I make sure this is the preferred connection by turning OFF the WiFi for each computer). Thank you.

iMac 27″, macOS 10.13

Posted on Nov 16, 2021 10:16 AM

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Answer 1

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usndoc Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 16, 2021 11:12 AM in response to Keith Barkley

Yes, that is exactly the article I read. However, in the meantime, I did find a solution. I went into system preferences > network > ethernet. I then selected Create PPPoE service. It assigned a local IP address to one of the IMacs. I then shut down the WiFi just to make sure it wasn't connecting that way. Then I used finder > go > connect to server, and typed in the local IP address.

It worked. I now have access to the other computer and associated drives.

I am not sure why this was necessary but the instructions from Apple simply didn't work for me.

Thanks for your help. Steve

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Answer 2

Allan Jones

Level 9

68,870 points

Nov 16, 2021 10:32 AM in response to usndoc

Please post the sub-models of the two Macs. That can help us with your specific need for faster xfer speeds.

It can also help with the cable question. Really old Macs requred a x-over cable; newer models do not.

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Answer 3

usndoc Author

Level 1

8 points

Nov 16, 2021 12:08 PM in response to hcsitas

Sounds easy, right? Problem 1. I have an EERO router with fiber internet. It has only 1 useable port. Problem 2, the router is upstairs and these two computers are downstairs but next to each other. Great signal, but no wire.

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