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USB727 on a Mac: How to Connect Using System Preferences

Connecting with the USB727 on a MacBook

If you are using Verizon Wireless’ USB727 to connect your MacBook to the Internet, it is easy to connect using system preferences. But before connecting, you must download and install Verizon’s VZAccess Manager software. The latest version can be found here:

Verizon Wireless Software Download Site (vzam.net)

Once you have installed the software properly, you do not need to use VZAccess to connect your MacBook. Instead, you can simply use System Preferences. The main reason I use System Preferences to connect is that VZAccess Manager takes over your network connections, and as long as it is running, you cannot use the built-in AirPort Wireless connection on your Mac. However, if you use System Preferences to connect, both are available simultaneously.

Before Step 1:

Make sure you have installed the software from Verizon Wireless. Get the latest available, especially if you are using Leopard (Mac OS X 10.5). Use the link above to get the latest software.

Step 1:

Click on the “Apple” in the upper-left portion of the OS X menu bar, then click on “System Preferences…”

Step 2:

Click on “Network”

Step 3:

Choose the USB727 modem

Step 4:

Press “Connect”

This is what you will see once you are connected:

 

Once connected, you can surf the ‘net, email, SSH, FTP, etc., all using the cellular connection you have just opened.

You can even share this connection with those around you.

To Share The USB727 Connection:

If you want to share this connection, I recommend creating an encrypted network using Mac OS X’s built-in Internet Connection Sharing. Instructions for creating an encrypted network can be found in another post:

MacBook Internet Connection Sharing

The USB727 has performed very well for me as I travel around the US. It is a great tool to have while at your local coffee shop, too. It works great on the MacBook Air. I detailed my experience in this post.

MacBook Air and the USB727

To Disconnect:

When you are done, simply press “Disconnect” and remove the USB727 from your Mac. It’s that simple.