macOS Server is a powerful tool for managing a network of Apple devices, providing services like file sharing, email, web hosting, and more. While Apple has streamlined many features into macOS itself, macOS Server still offers valuable tools for small businesses, educational institutions, and advanced users. This article will guide you through the setup and management of macOS Server, emphasizing its importance for centralized management and enhanced functionality in an Apple environment.

Examples:

Installing macOS Server

1. Purchase and Download:

   • Open the App Store on your Mac.
   • Search for "macOS Server" and purchase it.
   • Once purchased, download and install the application.

2. Initial Setup:

   • Launch the macOS Server app from the Applications folder.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the initial setup.
   • You will need to configure basic settings like the server name, admin account, and network settings.

Configuring Services

macOS Server provides several built-in services that you can configure and manage. Here are examples of setting up a few key services:

File Sharing

1. Enable File Sharing:

   • Open the macOS Server app.
   • Select "File Sharing" from the sidebar.
   • Click the "ON" button to enable the service.

2. Add Shared Folders:

   • Click the "+" button to add a folder to share.
   • Select the folder you wish to share and configure permissions for different users and groups.

3. Accessing Shared Folders:

   • On a client Mac, open Finder and select "Go" > "Connect to Server."
   • Enter the server address (e.g., smb://yourserver.local) and connect using your credentials.

Web Hosting

1. Enable Websites:

   • Open the macOS Server app.
   • Select "Websites" from the sidebar.
   • Click the "ON" button to enable the service.

2. Configure a Website:

   • Click the "+" button to add a new website.
   • Enter the domain name, document root, and other settings.
   • Place your website files in the specified document root directory.

3. Accessing the Website:

   • On a client device, open a web browser and enter the domain name or IP address of your server to view the hosted website.

Managing Users and Groups

1. Create Users:

   • Open the macOS Server app.
   • Select "Users" from the sidebar.
   • Click the "+" button to add a new user.
   • Enter the user details and configure their access permissions.

2. Create Groups:

   • Select "Groups" from the sidebar.
   • Click the "+" button to add a new group.
   • Enter the group name and add users to the group.

Command-Line Management

For advanced users, macOS Server can be managed via the command line using serveradmin and other command-line tools.

1. Check Service Status:

   sudo serveradmin status

2. Start/Stop a Service:

   sudo serveradmin start afp
   sudo serveradmin stop afp

3. View Service Configuration:

   sudo serveradmin settings afp