Time Capsule (Used as router?)

[Kylie]

I have been doing some research into the Apple time capsule and seem to be finding conflicting results. I would ideally like to use the time capsule as my router and for wireless backups and storage etc. From the research I have been doing some people mention that it can be used as a router some mention it can't.

The difference seems to be in the type of internet (cable etc) which only applies to the USA.

Does anyone have any experience of using a time capsule here in SA and if it is possible to use it as a router or is it just a glorified HDD?

 

[creeper]

The Time Capsule is a Wifi Router with a HDD to backup to with Time Machine. If you want to connect to the internet, you will need to buy a ADSL router and bridge the Time Capsule and ADSL router. To answer your question. It is a WIFI basestation, but not a ADSL router.

So to your question. It is HDD + Wifi Basestation. (with a few additional features)

 

[Kylie]

Thanks for the info.

 

[PostmanPot]

Could anyone please advise if there are any downsides to using the Time Capsule as an ADSL-sharing router for a couple of connections?

 

[Kylie]

Also, how good is the Apple airport as a modem-router? Is there any point getting one or rather just use a non-apple one?

 

[creeper]

Don't really see a downside or upside. It depends on what functions you need. I am using an airport express, linked to a Hauwei D105 3G router (that thing you plug in your 3G stick). I've setup the Hauwei router as the DHCP server and gateway to the Internet. The Apple wifi basestation is used as the Wifi basestation. The same setup can be done for an ADSL router. The Apple express is also linked to my wifi for Airplay, which is really nice as I control my music from any of my Apple devices. The only benefit compared between Apple/Non-apple is the integration and additional features like Airplay, Time Machine etc.

If there is a downside in performance, I haven't experienced it. I Skype, play games (if Cell C network is quiet), and download without losing Wifi connection. The only issue generally is the Hauwei Router that need resetting once in a while

 

[vinodh]

I had problems with AirPlay with two different routers: a DLink and an Asus. If I wanted to use AirPlay, the option was not always available on my iPad or MacBook Pro. If I restarted either device, then it worked. I disabled WiFi on the Asus router and connected it to the new AirPort Express. Problem solved. I would love to buy a Time Capsule but its a little bit too pricey for me at the moment.

 

[DewanPieterse]

Hi @ creeper

How did you connect the 3g router to the time capsule? What settings do I need to change on both the TC and the 3g router and which cable in which slot on both routers.

Thanks

 

[creeper]

Hi @ creeper

How did you connect the 3g router to the time capsule? What settings do I need to change on both the TC and the 3g router and which cable in which slot on both routers.

Thanks

There are a few options:

The Time Capsule Wifi only option:

1. Setup the 3G router as the DHCP server and the 'gateway' to the internet. (Write down the IP address of the router)
2. Switch off the 3G wifi.
3. Connect the time capsule via Ethernet cable. Connect to the Time capsule via the Airport software and setup to extend wifi, no DHCP, use 3G router as gateway.
4. Setup usual Wifi security

Option 2:

Extend wireless:

1. Setup 3G router as DHCP, Gateway, NAT
2. Setup Time Capsule without or with Ethernet cable as an extension of the network.