TITLE
    AirPort: Using Computer to Computer Mode
Article ID:
Created:
Modified: 		58569
1/18/00
2/3/00
TOPIC

    This article discusses the use of Computer to Computer mode on AirPort enabled computers.

DISCUSSION

    Computer to Computer mode allows you to quickly create a small network between two AirPort equipped computers or 802.11 compliant devices. This small network does not require an AirPort Base Station. It is theoretically possible to have more than two devices on a Computer to Computer network, but Apple recommends that you use a Base Station or Software Base Station if you are having difficulties.

    Note: A preview version of the Software Base Station became available in the 1.1 version of the AirPort software.

    AirPort uses channel 3 exclusively when in Computer to Computer mode. This is not changeable.

    If you are using a third party 802.11 wireless device, it may have the ability to use a different channel frequency when in Computer to Computer mode. Ensure your third party device is set to channel 3 when setting up a Computer to Computer network with an AirPort equipped computer.

    In Computer to Computer mode, the signal strength meter in the AirPort control strip will always show three green dots.

    If you are unable to use AirPort to access another AirPort-equipped computer, make sure that:

    • the TCP/IP and AppleTalk control panels on both your computer and the one you are trying to connect to are set to use AirPort
    • you select Computer to Computer in either the AirPort application or AirPort control strip portion
    • the two computers are within range of each other (the typical range for an AirPort connection is up to 150 feet.) Try moving the two computers closer together.
    • there are no sources of interference, such as a microwave oven or 2.4 GHz cordless phone, in range of the Base Station. (A list of interference sources is available in Mac Help.)
    • file sharing is turned on in the File Sharing control panel (on both your computer and the one you are trying to connect to). If file sharing is turned off, you will be unable to see the other computer in the Chooser or Network Browser.

    Note: While in Computer to Computer mode, you will be broadcasting without encryption (no network password). Therefore, the security of your computer is dependent upon the File Sharing privileges. If you have Guest access turned on, anyone with an AirPort equipped computer in a 150 foot range could connect to your computer.


Document Information
Product Area: AirPort
Category: AirPort Card
Sub Category: General Topics

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