MacTCP: Questions and Answers


Here are a few questions on Apple's TCP/IP functionality. In all cases, I am
assuming the use of Apple's MacTCP software.

1) Do the PD programs, like NCSA, support Macintosh-to-Macintosh FTP over LocalTalk and/or EtherTalk?

2) Are there any problems using MacTCP-based products with EtherTalk Phase 2 (due to the change from Ethernet to 802.3 framing)?

3) Can I run MacTCP sessions concurrently with AppleTalk sessions over the same physical media?

4) Can I run MacTCP sessions concurrently with AppleTalk sessions over different physical media (for example, AppleTalk on LocalTalk concurrent with TCP/IP over Ethernet on the same Macintosh)?

1) Question: Do the PD programs, like NCSA, support Macintosh-to-Macintosh FTP over LocalTalk and/or EtherTalk?

Answer: NCSA does NOT support Macintosh-to-Macintosh FTP over LocalTalk or Ethernet cabling.


2) Question: Are there any problems using MacTCP-based products with EtherTalk Phase 2 (due to the change from Ethernet to 802.3 framing)?

Answer: There should not be any problems regarding framing when using MacTCP- based products with EtherTalk Phase 2. MacTCP is co-resident with AppleTalk protocols so there can be concurrent TCP/IP and AppleTalk operations. EtherTalk manages data flow so it can co-exist on Ethernet cable with TCP/IP protocols.


3) Question: Can I run MacTCP sessions concurrently with AppleTalk sessions over the same physical media?

Answer: Yes, for the same reason as (2). For example, MacTCP can be run while a print job goes to an Apple LaserWriter printer over LocalTalk cabling.


4) Question: Can I run MacTCP sessions concurrently with AppleTalk sessions over different physical media (for example, AppleTalk on LocalTalk concurrent with TCP/IP over Ethernet on the same Macintosh)?

Answer: AppleTalk and MacTCP can run over the same media, or one protocol can run over one medium while the other protocol runs over a different medium.


Article Change History:
29 Nov 1995 - Updated format, reviewed for technical accuracy.

Support Information Services
Published Date: Feb 18, 2012