Time Machine backup to external harddrive connected to router?

[Awjvail]

Does anybody know if Time Machine can automatically backup to an external harddrive, connected via USB to my Asus RT-N16 router?

This seems to be a cheaper alternative to Time Capsule or some other backup solution.

Thanks.

 

[Jolly Giant]

Does anybody know if Time Machine can automatically backup to an external harddrive, connected via USB to my Asus RT-N16 router?

possibly, but such a setup is not supported. Apple doesn't even support TM backups to drives connected to its own AirPort Extreme Base Stations.

it may work for a while, but your backups could get corrupted over time.

see this user tip for more info.

you may get ChronoSync to do what you want.

or, you could take a hard look @ a refurbished Time Capsule.