Configuring Distributed Apps and Files (DAFS) for macOS

Welcome to a detailed process for setting up Distributed Apps and Files (DAFS) for macOS devices. DAFS facilitates the local distribution and replacement of applications and updates across your network, optimizing internet bandwidth usage and accelerating deployment on managed devices. Acting as a local hub, the Distributed Apps and File Server streamlines app and file distribution within your organization.

Step 1

Initiate by provisioning a macOS device that will serve as a distribution point. Install the Hexnode DAFS setup package, which automatically installs Docker desktops and downloads the required components.

Step 2

Instead of each device downloading updates directly from the Hexnode cloud, one macOS device hosts the content and shares it with other devices in the same network. This accelerates deployments, particularly in large or distributed environments.

Step 3

Upon completing the setup, the server starts distributing apps to other Hexnode devices on the same network, fetching those apps directly from the DAF server. To configure DAFS for macOS devices, log in to the Hexnode portal. Navigate to policies and create a new policy by selecting the appropriate platform.

Step 4

Provide a suitable name and description for the policy.

Step 5

Proceed to the DAFS configuration section.

Step 6

Click on configure. You'll be presented with configuration options such as separate settings for when the device is on-site or off-site.

Step 7

Enable preferences based on whether the device is connected to your organization’s network or is off-site. Choose how macOS should download content with options like using DAFS when available, falling back to Hexnode cloud if necessary.

Step 8

Alternatively, choose to use the cloud storage server exclusively, where all content is retrieved directly from the Hexnode cloud. Or use only the DAF server, where devices download exclusively from the local server.

Step 9

Set up server privileges to determine which DAF server should be prioritized when multiple apps are accessible.

Step 10

Define which DAF server should be prioritized either by using the server preference specified in the admin section or manually setting up the DAF server. Then adjust the bandwidth settings.

Step 11

Specify download restrictions for macOS devices, even when utilizing DAFS.

Step 12

For instance, enable 'disallow cache server downloads on VPN' to prevent devices from retrieving data through the DAF server while connected to a VPN.

Step 13

Click on the 'I' icon to get more information on the topic.

Step 14

Navigate to the policy targets section, assign the policy to devices or device groups, and then click 'OK'. Finally, click 'Save'. The DAF server ensures rapid, bandwidth-efficient distribution of enterprise apps and updates within your organization.

Step 15

It also facilitates smoother deployments.

Step 16

Additionally, it reduces cloud dependency across managed Apple devices.

Step 17

For more detailed information, please refer to our help documentation or contact our support team.

Step 18

Thank you for engaging with this process.