Netatalk

Netatalk is an open-source implementation of the Apple Filing Protocol (AFP), a proprietary network protocol for file services in macOS. It allows non-Apple operating systems, such as Linux and BSD, to act as file servers for macOS clients, providing seamless file sharing and network integration.

Netatalk implements the entire AFP protocol stack, including features such as:

• File Sharing: Allows macOS clients to access and share files stored on the Netatalk server as if they were on a native AppleShare server.

• Time Machine Support: Enables macOS clients to use the Netatalk server as a Time Machine backup destination, allowing for automated backups of macOS systems over the network.

• Bonjour Integration: Uses Bonjour, Apple's zero-configuration networking technology, to automatically advertise the Netatalk server to macOS clients on the local network.

• User Authentication: Supports various authentication methods, including local user accounts, Kerberos, and LDAP, to control access to shared files and directories.

• File System Support: Can work with a variety of underlying file systems, allowing flexibility in choosing the storage solution for the file server.

Netatalk is often used in environments where macOS clients need to access files stored on servers running operating systems other than macOS. It is particularly useful in mixed-platform networks where macOS clients need to interact with Linux or BSD servers. It also finds application in home environments where users want to centralize file storage and backups using a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device or a home server. The software is actively maintained and receives updates to ensure compatibility with the latest versions of macOS and AFP.