Turn Time Capsule from router into wireless backup

Question

Turn Time Capsule from router into wireless backup

So a while back I wanted to disable the router part of my old TC and turn it into simply a backup drive and do it via ethernet. I was successful in disabling the router part but it was backing up wirelessly (don't ask me how, it just happened that way). Then, I needed to turn it back into a router so I was successful in doing that. But now I would like to disable the router again and replicate what I did the first time but I can't remember how. I would like to use the TC as my backup drive and do it wirelessly but can't seem to figure it out. I've read other threads about similar situations but they are never the same. I turned off wireless and switched to bridge mode on network but I can only use the TC via ethernet connected via WAN to the router (Orbi) LAN. Suggestions will be appreciated.

iMac (21.5-inch, Late 2013), OS X Yosemite (10.10.5)

Posted on Apr 5, 2017 7:59 PM

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Answer 1

Bob Timmons

Level 10

190,948 points

Apr 5, 2017 8:28 PM in response to Edward Baumann1

Then, we will anxiously await your instructions on how to use AirPort Utility 6.3.x to set this up.

I think you will find though, that there are only two options to set up the Time Capsule......"create a wireless network" and "extend a wireless network". The option that you need though......"Join a wireless network"....does not exist.

The Time Capsule can wirelessly "extend a wireless network", but this will only work when the Time Capsule connects to the signal provided by another Apple router.

If you have a PC with AirPort Utility for Windows installed on the device.......you might be able to set up the Time Capsule to connect using wireless....and you might not. Notice that the "Join a wireless network" appears on this older version of AirPort Utility:

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Answer 2

Bob Timmons

Level 10

190,948 points

Apr 5, 2017 8:09 PM in response to Edward Baumann1

I would like to use the TC as my backup drive and do it wirelessly but can't seem to figure it out.

At one time...this was possible, but that is no longer the case since Lion (10.7.3) was introduced almost 5 years ago.

Unless you are using a Mac running a very old operating system like Leopard (10.5.x) or Snow Leopard (10.6.x), the Time Capsule cannot connect to the Orbi router using wireless......if that is what you are asking.

The Time Capsule must connect to the Orbi router using a permanent, wired Ethernet cable connection.

Post back if you need a few tips on how to set this up.

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Answer 3

Apr 5, 2017 8:12 PM in response to Bob Timmons

Hmm? Strange. I had it working that way several weeks ago.

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