network without cat 5

[bbott]

Hi, as a new user of a Mac mini I've tried to network with my Windows and Linux machines using the Wireless interface on the Mac. It doesn't work, is there any way to use a Mac min on a LAN without draping cables round the room?

[Remims]

I may not be able to answer your question even after you give more information, but I would suggest you do give more information such as...

1. Are you using a router? or are you sharing?
2. What protocol are you using?
3. Can you connect at all?
4. What router are you using (see 1 above)?
5. Have you checked for outside interference? (Another really strong station close by)?
6. Have you set up your mini incorrectly? (ie. specified the wrong channel)

These are some questions that I can think of for starters. Remember, you must post enough information before someone can even attempt to answer you.

[mooblie]

and...
7. Very early Mac minis had an option for Wifi (Airport). Does your mini actually have Airport hardware installed? Check under Apple Menu: About this Mac... More Info...Network...Airport...
8. Is Wifi (Airport) actually turned on? Check under Apple Menu: System Preferences: Network: Airport...
9. If so, can you see your WiFi network's SSID (name) under the Airport menu?
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[Remims]

Thank you mooblie. I didn't even think of the obvious and ask what model of mini was being used, I just equated new user with new mini. My mistake.

[Squonk]

Another possibility for networking is Homeplug technology. That's what I use here as my wife has objections to WiFi.

The Homeplug adapters I use here are made by Devolo : http://www.devolo.com/ , but others make them too, including Netgear.

Warning - this isn't as cheap as using WiFi, but it does give you a cabled network connection without having to cable your house up or have extra cables draped around the place.

Just another option to think about
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[bbott]

Hi,
the strange thing is airport is on,it talks to my WiFi modem and behaves perfectly normally, it just wont recognise that I have a LAN running.

It' a new Mac Mini Snow Leopard , a basic system with 2GByte Ram, 160 G disc and 2.2 Mg processor.

Everything appears to be fine, I suspect I might have to tick a box I've not set up.

[bbott]

Just a quick mention , if I connect via a cat 5 cable the Mac does see the network.

[bbott]

As I said not ticked correct boxes. I'm used to Windows and Linux network interfaces, Mac is a new one I just didn't get it right.

I'm now using a windows domain, tends to be one way at present, I can get everything onto the Mac. Thats OK, in general thats what I want.