Apple Posts KBase Article, Possible Work Arounds For 10.2.8 Ethernet Problems

A pple has posted a Knowledge Base article concerning the problems many users have had with the Mac OS X 10.2.8 update. Announced earlier this week, Apple almost immediately pulled the file due to problems with Ethernet networking for some users. The KnowledgeBase article does not have a solution, but it does offer some possible work arounds. From Apple:

TITLE
Mac OS X 10.2.8: Canit Connect via Ethernet After Installing Update

TOPIC
After updating Mac OS X or Mac OS X Server to version 10.2.8, you may not be able to connect to the Internet or your network. This only affects some computers using a 10BASE-T Ethernet connection.
DISCUSSION

Symptom

You cannot access the Internet or local network resources after updating to version 10.2.8.

Your computeris IP address is in the 169.254.x.x range.

Products affected

  • Mac OS X 10.2.8
  • Mac OS X Server 10.2.8
  • Power Mac G4 (Gigabit Ethernet) - dual 450 MHz and dual 500 MHz computers only
  • Macintosh Server G4 (Gigabit Ethernet) - dual 450 MHz and dual 500 MHz servers only
  • Any 10BASE-T network hardware (hubs, switches, routers)
  • Many DSL (digital subscriber line) and cable modems with 10BASE-T Ethernet ports

Note: The built-in Gigabit Ethernet ports on the affected computers can automatically switch between 10BASE-T, 100BASE-T, and 1000BASE-T speeds to match the network they are on.

Solution

Apple has removed Mac OS X 10.2.8 until an update that resolves this issue can be made available. This update is expected to be available soon, and this document will be updated at that time.

Workarounds

Consider using one of the following workarounds until the update is available.

Note: Wherever a hub is mentioned, a switch or router could be substituted if properly configured. See the deviceis manual for configuration information.

  1. For cable and DSL modems with 10BASE-T ports: Do not connect the computer directly to the modem. Instead, connect the computer and the modem to the same 10/100BASE-T hub.
  2. For local area networks (LANs): If you can connect the computer directly to a 10/100BASE-T or 100BASE-T hub, you should do that. If you donit have that option, place a 10/100BASE-T hub between your computer and your normal 10BASE-T connection.
  3. If a wireless network is available, use an AirPort card to connect.
  4. If you have a third-party Ethernet PCI card, install it in your computer in accordance with the manufactureris instructions. Change the computeris settings in Network preferences to use this card.
  5. If you donit have access to the hardware items mentioned above, you can perform an Archive and Install from your Mac OS X 10.2 Installation disc. After reinstalling, use the Software Update feature of System Preferences to update to Mac OS X 10.2.6. For more information, see technical document 107120, " Mac OS X 10.2: About the Archive and Install Feature."

Note : If you perform an Archive and Install installation, itis OK to select Preserve User and Network Settings.

You can find the full KBase article at Appleis Web site.