Mac OS X: Back to My Mac requires AirPort base station or UPnP-capable third-party router

Summary

The Back to My Mac feature of Mac OS X is designed to work seamlessly with compatible AirPort base stations. This seamless integration is achieved through the use of NAT-PMP (NAT Port mapping Protocol) technology, which enables your computer to automatically configure your AirPort base station to provide services between your local network and the Internet.

Some third-party Internet routers use a technology called UPnP (Universal Plug and Play), which is similar to NAT-PMP. Back to My Mac works with both NAT-PMP and UPnP.

Products Affected

AirPort Base Station (Dual Ethernet), AirPort Express 802.11n (1st Generation), AirPort Express Base Station, AirPort Extreme 802.11n (1st Generation), AirPort Extreme Base Station, AirPort Extreme Base Station POE/UL2043, Back to My Mac, MobileMe, Time Capsule 802.11n (1st Generation), iCloud

NAT-PMP or UPnP must be enabled

If Back to My Mac isn't working and you use an AirPort base station, NAT-PMP may need to be turned on again.

  1. Open AirPort Utility (in /Applications/Utilities).
  2. Click the Internet tab.
  3. Enable "NAT Port mapping Protocol" under the NAT section.
  4. Save.
  5. Close Airport Utility.

If Back to My Mac isn't working and you use a third-party router, make sure UPnP is enabled. Consult the device's documentation or contact the manufacturer for information about enabling UPnP.

Additional Information

For more information about setting up Back to My Mac, see Using and troubleshooting Back to My Mac.

Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple’s recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.
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