I have a Linksys E4200 V2 with a USB connected hard drive. We have two macs, one running the latest Mountain Lion and the other running Snowleopard. I would like to use the USB harddrive to backup via the E4200 using TimeMachine. Can this be done?
Either not at all or not safely.
If you want network backup with Time Machine, use as the destination either an Apple Time Capsule or an external hard drive connected to another Mac or a mini-tower (802.11ac) AirPort base station. Only the 802.11ac base station supports Time Machine, not any previous model.
Thanks.
Based on your reply, I am gathreing that the latest Linksys EA6700/EA6500 units will enable me to do what I want. Am I correct?
Dipu'
No, drives connected to the USB port of a Router are not supported. They are not reliable. If you want wireless backup then use an Apple Time Capsule.
The latest Airport Extreme supports USB connected drives, but if you replace your router a Time Capsule makes more sense.
No, not at all. Please re-read my last comment.
Network backups are SLOW, even over an Ethernet connection and ungodly slow over WiFi. Also there are many reports of failed restores from network backups even when made to the Apple Time Capsules.
Sounds like a good idea but in reality it isn't.
Speed is irrelevant, the system works in the background on its own schedule. Your time is not involved.
Failed restores are the exception, not the rule. Perhaps you can suggest a system that never fails?
Time Machine backups via Linksys E4200 V2
