OS X Mountain Lion Server For Dummies

Why You Need Mountain Lion Server

You’ve probably discovered that you can have a small network without a server. Macs and PCs can talk to each other. Computers can share files and printers, and you may be able to use a router to share an Internet connection.

But a server enables users to collaborate in ways that aren’t possible without it. A server gives you control; it centralizes data, making it easier to manage. A server provides fast access to information and collaborative tools and provides network security. It enables you to manage the computers and iPhones and iPads that are connected to it. And a server is always there when users need it.

Why you need Mountain Lion Server at home

Home use is not Mountain Lion Server’s primary purpose, but there is certainly enough in it that justifies dedicating a Mac as a server. Here are the most common home uses of Mountain Lion Server:

File sharing: Sure, you can share files without a server, but centralized storage takes shared files off your Mac and safely stores them where everyone can always get at them. Don’t want your kids to get into your tax returns? You can prevent certain people from accessing private files. Mountain Lion Server also shares files with iPad, iPhone, and iPod touch devices running Apple’s Keynote, Numbers, or Pages — wirelessly. You can’t do that without OS X Server. Another great file-sharing feature is the ...