When I try to setup my AirPort Time Capsule (Model A1470), I have an issue with joining a network. (In this case I’m joining a network, not creating one.) Basically, it doesn’t show any networks to join expect the one it temporarily creates when it is in setup mode. This did not happen when I successfully setup my AirPort Express. How do I get it to join a network?
Time Capsule
The Time Capsule cannot "join" a network using only a Wi-Fi connection. The AirPort Express can.
If you want the Time Capsule on your network, you will need to connect it to your modem/router using a permanent wired Ethernet cable connection. Post back if you need step by step instructions using your Mac.
The Time Capsule will "create a wireless network" in this type of setup, but you can simply ignore this signal since you are likely already using the Wi-Fi network provided by your modem/router.
The Time Capsule cannot "join" a network using only a Wi-Fi connection. The AirPort Express can.
If you want the Time Capsule on your network, you will need to connect it to your modem/router using a permanent wired Ethernet cable connection. Post back if you need step by step instructions using your Mac.
The Time Capsule will "create a wireless network" in this type of setup, but you can simply ignore this signal since you are likely already using the Wi-Fi network provided by your modem/router.
Sounds good.
The Time Capsule that you have was sold between 2013 and 2018, so your product is at least 6 years old and as much as 11 depending on when it was initially placed into service.
It's your call, but I would not use the Time Capsule as your only backup plan for the new Mac since both the hard drive and power supply are "iffy" on a 7-8 year old Time Capsule and "suspect" on even older products.
Before we dive in......will you be using a recent Mac for the setup? Are there existing backups on the Time Capsule that you want to keep or erase?
You can turn off the Wi-Fi in the Time Capsule settings, but you will have to do this.....after....you go through the basic setup. You cannot turn off the Wi-Fi as part of the initial basic setup of the Time Capsule.
Hmm. The instructions would be nice, thank you. If I turn the Wi-Fi “off” in the TC settings, does that mean it would not broadcast and it will just receive backups? The 2.4ghz network is already crowded enough as it is.
IpodLover5-5 wrote:
Hmm. The instructions would be nice, thank you. If I turn the Wi-Fi “off” in the TC settings, does that mean it would not broadcast and it will just receive backups? The 2.4ghz network is already crowded enough as it is.
Yes. Turn off the Wi-Fi radios, and connect the Rime Capsule to wired Ethernet.
I’d look to use newer NAS gear though, as even the newest Time Capsule is getting old.
I will be using a mid 2010 Mac on high sierra. I may wait to backup until I purchase a new MacBook though. I erased the time capsule disc when I received it today. I did figure out how to set it up and I did turn WiFi off. I do not think I need the instructions now as everything seems to be working good.
AirPort Time Capsule setup issue
