How to Install Mac OS Server on a Mac Mini

Mac Mini computers are Apple's entry into the low-priced desktop market. They are designed for compactness and energy efficiency. Mac OS X server is based on Apple's Mac OS X operating system, which as of May 2011 is included with every new Intel-based Macintosh computer. Mac OS X server adds additional software to the Mac OS X base installation and enables new software functionality. You can install Mac OS X server on a Mac Mini computer to take advantage of the additional features.

Instructions

1. Insert the Mac OS X Server installation disk into the Mac Mini's disk drive, then restart the computer.

2. Press and hold the "C" key immediately after the start-up chime until the Mac Mini begins to boot from the disk.

3. Click the "Next" arrow.

4. Click the "Utilities" menu, then select "Disk Utility."

5. Click the Mac Mini's internal hard drive in the left column, then click the "Partition" tab.

6. Click "1 Partition" under "Volume Scheme," then click "Apply."

7. Click "Partition," then close the Disk Utility.

8. Click "Continue," then "Agree."

9. Click the Mac Mini's internal hard drive, then click "Install."

10. Click "Continue" twice after the computer restarts.

11. Enter the serial number for your copy of Mac OS X Server, then click "Continue" twice.

12. Enter user registration information if you wish, then click "Continue." Or press "Command" and "Q" simultaneously to skip.

13. Click to select your time zone, then click "Continue."

14. Enter a user account name and password, then click "Continue."

15. Enter IP network information if you wish, then click "Continue."

16. Enter the name for the Mac Mini server installation, then click "Continue."

17. Click "Configure Manually," then click "Continue" three times.

18. Click "Set Up" to finalize the initial settings for the Mac Mini server.

19. Click "Go" to log into the server for the first time.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the Server Admin tools to further configure the server after installation.