Does my router support Apple’s Time Machine? I’m compiling a list of routers that support Apple Time Machine—from user discussions, manufacturer documentation, and, your own experience.


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Simplicity is key: for me, if the router supports wireless Time Machine backups, there’s no need for a NAS.

Known models

✅ Officially supported

ASUS

most ASUS routers support Time Machine backups in with their latest firmware.

Known models include:

Synology

Most Synology NAS devices officially support Time Machine over SMB, and Synology routers (with USB storage) also include native support. Synology DSM makes setup straightforward: create a shared folder, enable SMB/AFP compatibility (AFP is deprecated), and assign a Time Machine user.

Known models include:

🔧 Semi-supported

gl.iNet

These don’t offer official support for Time Machine. Even those with USB storage capabilities—are not optimized for file sharing or backups in the way a NAS is. But, as a router based on OpenWRT, we may need some tweak to make it work.

I have one myself, and after hours of configuration, it finally worked.

Known models include:

❌ Not supported

Netgear – Some models

Some Netgear models no longer support Apple Time Machine backups—and this removal is official. Netgear’s support documentation explicitly confirms that Time Machine Backup is among the legacy features being phased out:

“In an effort to provide customers with new and relevant features … NETGEAR is phasing out the following legacy features with low user numbers: … Time Machine Backup …”

Here are some of the known models impacted, as listed by Netgear along with their deprecated firmware versions:

Router Model Firmware Version
R6700 1.0.2.8
R6900 1.0.2.8
R7000 1.0.9.88
R7800 1.0.2.92
R7900 1.0.3.18
R7900P 1.4.1.42
R8000 1.0.4.46
R8000P 1.4.1.42
R7850 1.0.4.46
RAX120 (incl. v2) 1.2.9.52

Compatibility Table

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