Apple Mac Mini (2021) M1 model as an Apple Caching Server (ACS)
In 2021, Apple released a brand new model of the Mac Mini. The 2021 model features the new M1 processor and is supplied with a Jamf Pro licence. It is pre-enrolled in the department's Jamf Console for Apple Caching Servers. In addition, the process of ordering an Apple Mac Mini is different to the regular process of ordering computers via the EdBuy.
Apple Caching Server specifications
The Apple Mac Mini 2021 model can be found on the Apple catalogue on EdBuy, with specifications as follows:
| Item | Base Apple Caching Server |
DOE Catalogue Item No. |
AM-ONLY-ACS-JAMF |
- This will cater well for schools with a managed fleet of school-owned iPads and or Macs. It will also support schools where BYOD is in place and where students are bringing significant numbers of varied iOS and Mac devices on-site daily.
How to order your M1 Mac Mini
- Determine which model best suits your school's needs
- Search for Apple Caching Server on EdBuy
- NOTE that an order for an Apple Caching Server must be on its own, with no other items added
- Add the Apple Caching Server to your basket
- Check out and complete the standard purchase order process.
Building your Mac Mini as an eT4L Apple Caching Server
When your Apple Mac Mini has been delivered to the school, it can be built as an Apple Caching Server. All Apple Mac Minis purchased by the schools using the above steps, are pre-enrolled in the department's MDM solution for new Apple Caching Servers. This provides for a simplified setup process, which means your caching server will be up and running very quickly and with minimum effort.
- Setup your Mac Mini in the same room as your eT4L Server
- The Mac Mini should be connected to the school's Head-End switch (the same switch that the eT4L server is connected to). Depending on the model, port A14 on a multtiple module switch, OR port 14 on a single module switch, has been reserved for the school's Apple Caching Server, so please connect via that port wherever possible,.using an ethernet cable
- Connect power and a suitable monitor (temporarily only) to your Mac Mini
- When ready, power on your Mac Mini
Your Mac Mini will automatically configure itself as an Apple Caching Server. There is no need to ever logon to the Mac Mini as it is all managed centrally and remotely. When the normal logon screen is displayed, it is OK to remove the monitor. The only ongoing connections required are power and ethernet network cable.
IMPORTANT NOTES:
With an Apple Caching Server in the school, it is critical to ensure all Apple devices, iPads and Macs, are set to use Automatic proxy settings and NOT set to the manual setting of proxy.det.nsw.edu.au.