Time Machine Server

[CHM-ITServices]

Hi,

 

I'm looking to implement a Time Machine Server for the handful of mac users in school (one being the Head), i wondered if anyone else is using it and can point out any issues? How does it perform, what's the impact on the network etc?

 

Thanks in advance,

[AntonioRocco]

I've used it but it wouldn't be my first choice. For your needs though it probably fits the bill. For me it has performed well but I'd recommend a minimum of Gigabit to Desktop for the network and at least double the storage capacity for the total amount of disk size the clients have. For example 4 client Macs each with 500GB hard disk totalling 2TB means you should set aside 4TB for the backup drive. Obviously I would add another drive of similar size that the first back up can be backed up to for offsite storage. I'm assuming this would be important for you?

 

As for impact it depends on how you've segmented your network. If you're using Class C's everywhere with only necessary traffic between as well sd a decent backbone there should be relatively little impact although YMMV. It will be interesting to see if there are others here who have used it, or are using it and what their experiences of it are. On a final note and not being sure which version of OS X Server you have, you should be aware the service is no longer in the Server.App in High Sierra. Apple have moved it to the Sharing Preference Pane in System Preferences.

 

Setting up Time Machine Server is fairly simple as this MacWorld article explains:

 

https://www.macworld.com/article/3130110/servers/turn-up-the-time-machine-service-in-macos-server.html

 

However the best resource for all things Time Machine was James (Pondini) Pond's definitive website:

 

Site Suspended - This site has stepped out for a bit

 

Unfortunately the site has been down for a while but it may be worth your while to monitor it and see if it comes back up again. Pondini passed away 4 years ago.

 

Hopefully this may help?

 

Antonio Rocco (ACSA)

[jgmitchell]

I'm thinking of doing the same for our site using Open Media Vault. May be worth looking into if you are looking to backup more.