Time Machine backups without using Time Capsule for new iMac
We currently have a 2017 iMac and a 2017 Apple MacBook Pro. We will be getting a new 1 TB iMac and it will replace the 2017 iMac. We like the iMac not because we are doing highly complex computing but because we have a large photo library and because we prefer the ergonomics of a desk top configuration. Other than the photos, we use the computers for word processing, an occasional Excel spreadsheet, a family history database and internet searching—no games, etc.
Our internet service provider is AT&T U-Verse and we recently upgraded to fiber optic service. We are currently using a 2 TB Time Capsule (also 2017 vintage) as our router. The Time Capsule is connected to the iMac via an ethernet cable so that we have a non-wireless internet connection and so we can use it for non-wireless Time Machine backups. We also use Time Machine to back up the MacBook via wifi to the Time Capsule, using AirPort Utility.
From reading many postings on the Apple Community site and elsewhere, we know that Time Capsules are no longer made and that there is no substitute that can function as simply as both backup device and router. Like many others, we are hugely disappointed about that, but given the age of our Time Capsule, it seems smart to us to replace it now rather than wait for future problems.
We want the simplest solution that also is as reliable as possible. We are not computer wizards and do not enjoy tackling technological complexities. We try to inform ourselves about possibilities so that we can begin to understand potential solutions but we still need straightforward, non-technical step by step instructions.
From our reading, it seems like using the AT&T Gateway as our router makes the most sense. But we have no idea how to make that switch—or whether to try to do it before the new iMac arrives. It seems likely it will involve using the AT&T website so perhaps using the old iMac which is already successfully hooked up to the internet would be a good idea--?
As for Time Machine backups, it appears that we will need to purchase an external hard drive which can be directly connected to the iMac since we prefer not to back up the iMac wirelessly. The MacBook doesn’t do a lot of travelling but it does move from room to room and we have relied on backups occurring without our having to think about them so connecting and disconnecting the hard drive is not an optimal solution. We could do that but wireless would be better.
Would it be possible to use the external hard drive which is connected to the iMac to backup both devices? One with a wired connection and one wirelessly? Some sources make it appear that the only way to backup wirelessly is with something called an NAS—and reading about them defeated and intimidated us. They are not the simple solution we are seeking.
Our guess is that we would need two external hard drives—one for the iMac and one for the MacBook. We understand that a 1TB iMac needs at least a 2TB backup device but some sources seem to say that bigger is better--?? The MacBook is 256GB—so how big does the hard drive need to be?
For simplicity’s sake, one that is pre-formatted for Mac would be best.
Somewhere I thought I saw something about external hard drives with their own power source were better? Faster? But there don’t seem to be any such listed on the lists of “bests” that I have seen online--???
Suggestions for best choices? And why? We are less concerned with price than with simplicity and reliability.
Other thoughts about issues we haven’t thought of?
Thanks for whatever help you can offer.
P.S. I posted this question earlier today but am not sure I did it successfully so am trying again--sorry if it is a repeat
iMac (24-inch, M1, 2021, 2 ports)
