RIP to AFP Client

The latest version of macOS (Sequoia 15.5.0) put the final nail in the coffin of Apple Filing Protocol, or AFP, client. The announcement, released in May 2025, was part of a list of updates and declared deprecated.

The move on Apple’s part likely spells doom for AFP itself, which has been a part of macOS since all the way back in 1988. AFP was initially the primary file system until 2012 when it was replaced by Server Message Block, or SMB. SMB is generally accepted as an improvement, due to its cross-platform capabilities, multi-channel support and security features. 

What Does This Mean for Users?

Most macOS users will be unaffected, as support for AFP has lagged for over a decade. For legacy users who rely on AFP for NAS devices, backup systems, and networked storage from the 2010s, it’s likely time for an overdue upgrade,

Not sure if your business is reliant on AFP? Confused as to how to check or make the switch to SMB? Nodal can help! Contact us today.