Back up over wireless practical?

[rpg51]

I need to sort how how to back up two MacBook Air computers in my home automatically at night without user input required. The computers' only connection to my home network is via wireless router which could perhaps use upgrading soon.

Is there a practical way to do this on site? What hardware and software needed and best?

Is offsite backup a good/better option?

My concerns are 1. will the system back up automatically even if the machine is in sleep mode? 2. will the system be fast enough to complete back ups in reasonable time? 3. will the back up be reliable?

Last - I do have one windows desktop machine that backs up to an attached external usb drive - I could keep doing that or incorporate all three into one back up system - not sure what is best.

Any input much appreciated.

 

[SHADO]

If you're willing to upgrade the wireless router, I would consider getting a Time Capsule, which has a built-in HD (in various sizes) that automatically backs up the Macs on your network. I'm not sure if it can back up while the Macs are asleep (I don't know if that's possible period). Time Machine's are reliable and, after the initial backup, the subsequent backups should be pretty fast.

 

[rpg51]

I followed this advice

and bought a Time Capsule. I am very happy. I'm backing up two MBA's in my house via wireless to the TC and it works very well.

 

[satcomer]

To whom ever reads this thread head this advice.

1. If you plan to use Time Machine backup the first big backup should be done with an Ethernet Cable (CAT 5E or CAT 6) connected to it. The first backup is HUGE and it will go fast doing it connected up.

2. It might be better to buy an Airport Extreme & an External hard drive (format it to OS x Extended). Plus you can get a powered USB2 hub and put multiple drives on the on the Extreme, it will work.

 

[rpg51]

Airport Extreme

The only thing is that with the Time Capsule you get 2 TB hard drive, excellent router AND USB interface for $300. Not sure how the extreme option stacks up to that. How much is a 2TB drive these days?

EDIT: Looks like the pricing is similar between TC and Airport Extreme with 2 terabyte HD - Maybe a little in favor of Airport Extreme if you need/want 3 terabyte. Remember though with the TC you have just one piece of hardware sitting on the desk. Also, you can add external HD to TC as well.