DO YOU HAVE an old Mac gathering dust somewhere in your home? If so, why not press it into service as a dedicated server? As the name implies, a server provides services through your network, from a simple centralized file–sharing repository to full–blown tools such as media streaming, password manager, VPN server, cloud storage, home surveillance, and so much more.
In this feature we’ll show you how to prep your old Mac for its new role. You’ll wipe it clean and upgrade it to the latest version of macOS — even if it’s no longer officially supported by Apple. We’ll also highlight useful hardware upgrades — including extra memory, Ethernet add–ons and external storage, and reveal how you can set it up for remote unattended access, so it can be connected directly to your router without needing a monitor, keyboard and mouse.