AirPort 1.2 and Earlier: Using Computer to Computer Mode

You may download a later version of AirPort software at Apple Software Updates (http://www.apple.com/swupdates/). This article is provided for customers who do not wish to update their software immediately.

Computer-to-Computer mode allows you to quickly create a small network between two AirPort- equipped computers or IEEE 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 you should use an AirPort 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 versions 1.2 and earlier use channel 3 exclusively when in Computer-to-Computer mode. This is not adjustable.

If you are using a third-party IEEE 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 portion of the 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 to which you are trying to connect are set to use AirPort.
• You select Computer-to-Computer in either the AirPort application or the AirPort portion of the Control Strip.
• The two computers are within range of each other. (The typical range for an AirPort connection is up to 50 m.) 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 50 m range could connect to your computer.

Note: Wireless Internet access requires an Internet service provider (fees may apply) and AirPort (or AirPort-compatible) wireless Ethernet card and base station. Some ISPs are not compatible with AirPort. For more information, see technical document 106590: "AirPort: Requirements for Wireless Internet Access"