Apple Phases Out AFP: A Significant Change for Mac File Sharing
In a decisive step that represents the conclusion of a significant aspect of its legacy, Apple is officially discontinuing support for the Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) in macOS. With the launch of macOS Sequoia 15.5, AFP has been marked for deprecation, indicating its total removal in a forthcoming macOS update. Once a fundamental element of Macintosh networking, AFP is being retired in favor of contemporary file-sharing protocols such as SMB and NFS.
This transition signifies more than just a technical overhaul—it concludes a multi-decade narrative in Apple’s development. Let’s examine AFP’s beginnings, its influence on Mac users, and what this change means for both individuals and organizations still dependent on AFP today.
The Journey of Apple Filing Protocol (AFP)
Progression from LocalTalk to AppleShare
Coming into existence in 1985, the Apple Filing Protocol was a component of an extensive Apple networking suite that encompassed AppleTalk, AppleShare, and LocalTalk. AFP permitted users to share files among Macintosh computers on local networks—an innovative advancement in a time before the internet.
The protocol was crafted to suit the Mac’s distinct file system, which utilized resource forks and data forks. These forks enabled Macintosh software to distinguish interface elements from the actual data, but also resulted in compatibility hurdles when transferring files to non-Mac systems. AFP addressed these issues by maintaining both forks intact during AppleTalk transfers.
The Rise and Decline of AppleShare
AppleShare—a networking solution founded on AFP—facilitated centralized file storage and printer access, gaining traction primarily in educational and creative sectors. Access to AppleShare servers was granted through a Mac system tool named Chooser, which later advanced to accommodate direct IP addressing.
As the 1990s progressed, Apple introduced AppleShare IP, enabling AFP to function over TCP/IP networks. This was a vital advancement in incorporating Apple environments into the wider internet framework. Apple even launched server-specific hardware, including PowerPC-based Macs equipped with AppleShare IP.
However, despite these strides, rival protocols like SMB (Server Message Block), predominantly used by Windows systems, started to gain prevalence due to their compatibility across different platforms.
AFP in the macOS Landscape
The Shift to macOS and SMB
With the arrival of Mac OS X in 2000, Apple persisted in supporting AFP as a file-sharing solution. Yet, beginning with OS X 10.9 Mavericks in 2013, Apple transitioned its primary file-sharing protocol from AFP to SMB, highlighting improved compatibility with Windows systems and superior performance.
By the time of macOS 11 Big Sur, Apple had eliminated the ability to operate an AFP server natively, although Finder still retained support for AFP as a client. Users were still able to connect to AFP shares through the “Connect to Server” feature using the afp:// protocol. Nonetheless, with each update, AFP’s role has steadily diminished.
macOS Sequoia 15.5: The Definitive End
Apple’s latest operating system, macOS Sequoia 15.5, officially marks the end of AFP. As per enterprise release notes, AFP client support will be entirely withdrawn in a subsequent version of macOS. This development signifies that users and organizations relying on AFP must urgently switch to contemporary file-sharing protocols like SMB or NFS.
Implications for Users and Organizations
Migrating to SMB and NFS
Apple now urges all users to transition their file-sharing workflows to SMB, which has become the standard for cross-platform file sharing. For legacy systems or UNIX-based servers, NFS remains another practical alternative.
A number of third-party NAS vendors, including Synology, have historically offered support for AFP, but this backing is anticipated to decrease following Apple’s announcement. Users who depend on AFP connections to such devices will likely need to adjust their configurations to adopt SMB.
Legacy Systems and Compatibility Issues
Those continuing to use classic Mac OS versions such as 7, 8, or 9 may encounter growing challenges when connecting to up-to-date macOS systems. Third-party solutions like Netatalk—an open-source AFP server—still provide some level of support. However, even such tools rely on AFP APIs that will become obsolete as macOS progresses.
For collectors of vintage Macs and archivists, AppleTalk over IP remains a specialized workaround that enables the continued use of older systems.
Resources and Tools for Developers
Developers interested in managing or comprehending AFP connections can still refer to resources like the Apple Filing Protocol Programming Guide and Technical Note TN3151. Though these documents are becoming dated, they continue to serve as valuable references for understanding AFP’s framework and APIs.
There’s also NFS Manager by Marcel Bresink, a macOS application that assists users in setting up NFS shares, an alternative protocol still supported by macOS.
Summary
The deprecation and eventual removal of AFP in macOS signify the closure of one of Apple’s longest-standing technologies. From its inception in the 1980s to its gradual decline in the 2020s, AFP has faithfully served Apple users for almost 40 years. Nevertheless, in a landscape dominated by TCP/IP and cross-platform standards, it is evident that AFP has fulfilled its role.
Users and organizations should take immediate action to migrate to supported protocols like SMB or NFS to secure compatibility with future macOS versions. While fond memories of AFP’s ease and dependability may persist, the path forward lies in adopting more modern, efficient, and universal networking technologies.
Frequently Asked Questions About AFP Deprecation and File Sharing in macOS
What is the Apple Filing Protocol (AFP)?
AFP is a proprietary file-sharing protocol created by Apple in 1985. It permitted Macs to share files across local networks while maintaining Mac-specific file structures like resource forks and data forks. It was integral to AppleShare servers and client file sharing until the early 2010s.
Why is Apple discontinuing AFP support?
AFP is being phased out because it is outdated and does not fit well with modern networking practices. Apple has shifted towards SMB, a widely recognized, cross-platform protocol that provides improved performance, security, and interoperability.
What should I use in place of AFP?
Apple suggests migrating to SMB for all file-sharing purposes. For connections to UNIX or Linux servers, NFS is also an option. Tools such as NFS Manager can assist in configuring these connections on macOS.
Will third-party NAS systems continue to support AFP?
Certain NAS manufacturers like Synology still support AFP, but this is rapidly changing. As Apple phases out AFP client support, vendors are likely to adapt accordingly. It is advisable to adjust these systems to utilize SMB moving ahead.
Are there tools available to manage NFS or SMB on macOS?
Yes. For NFS, NFS Manager by Marcel Bresink is a useful tool. SMB is inherently supported in macOS and can be accessed through the Finder’s “Connect to Server” feature using smb:// rather than afp://.
Can I still connect to older Macs running Mac OS 9 or earlier?
You may still achieve connections using legacy tools or protocols like AppleTalk over IP, but maintaining these setups is becoming increasingly difficult. Isolating vintage Macs or using dedicated older hardware may be the most dependable method to keep utilizing AFP.
Where can I find more information about the history of Apple’s networking technologies?
You can review archived Apple developer resources like the Apple Filing Protocol Programming Guide or technote TN3151. These documents offer insights into AFP’s framework and application from a developer’s viewpoint.
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