AppleShare

AppleShare was Apple Inc.'s networking protocol introduced in the 1980s that enabled Macintosh computers to share files and resources over a network. As part of Apple's AppleTalk networking suite, it allowed users to access files on remote Macintosh computers as if they were stored locally. The protocol supported both AppleTalk and later TCP/IP for connectivity, making it versatile for different network environments.

AppleShare was typically implemented through server software that could run on Macintosh computers or dedicated hardware. It became widely adopted in educational institutions, businesses, and creative industries where Mac computers were prevalent. The service provided file sharing, printer access, and other network resources to authorized users.

As networking technologies evolved, AppleShare was gradually replaced by more modern protocols. The Apple Filing Protocol (AFP) succeeded it, offering improved performance and features. Later, Apple integrated these functionalities into macOS Server and eventually transitioned to cloud-based solutions like iCloud. While AppleShare is no longer a standalone product, its influence on early Mac networking and file sharing capabilities remains significant in the history of Apple's operating systems and networking technologies.