HT201510: Setting up Time Capsule for the first time

Learn about Setting up Time Capsule for the first time
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randbhebbard

Q: Time Machine set up

Do I need to keep my time machine connected to the modem via an ethernet cable once its set up? I have moved house and am trying to set up my time machine again but having trouble keeping it connected without the cables. Shouldn't it be wireless??

Time Capsule 802.11n (4th Gen), Mac OS X (10.7.5)

Posted on Apr 20, 2013 2:50 PM

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Q: Time Machine set up

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  • by AppleClubSupport,Helpful

    AppleClubSupport AppleClubSupport Apr 20, 2013 2:53 PM in response to randbhebbard
    Level 4 (1,060 points)
    Mac OS X
    Apr 20, 2013 2:53 PM in response to randbhebbard

    It needs to be connected to the modem. It provides wireless for other devices, but the Time Capsule itself needs the means to connect to the Internet.

  • by randbhebbard,

    randbhebbard randbhebbard Apr 20, 2013 2:56 PM in response to AppleClubSupport
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Apr 20, 2013 2:56 PM in response to AppleClubSupport

    Thanks for that AppleClubSupport. Would I also need to have the modem connected via ethernet cable to my Mac for the set up to work?

  • by LaPastenague,

    LaPastenague LaPastenague Apr 20, 2013 2:56 PM in response to randbhebbard
    Level 9 (52,991 points)
    Wireless
    Apr 20, 2013 2:56 PM in response to randbhebbard

    Your Time Machine is a Time Capsule.. just to be clear .. the software in the computer is Time Machine that backs up the computer to the Time Capsule.. they are related products but each has nothing to do with the other.

     

    The best setup for the TC is connected by ethernet to your modem. Do not use wireless unless you want slow and flakey backups.

     

    If the modem is a router the TC should be in bridge.. but it can still create a wireless network for your devices to join.

     

    Tell us exactly what modem.. make and model and why youi want to disconnect it and use wireless only.

  • by stevejobsfan0123,Solvedanswer

    stevejobsfan0123 stevejobsfan0123 Apr 20, 2013 2:58 PM in response to randbhebbard
    Level 8 (44,007 points)
    iPhone
    Apr 20, 2013 2:58 PM in response to randbhebbard

    No, just connect the Time Capsule via Ethernet, the Mac does not need to be connected. It can see the Time Capsule wirelessly.