A Mac used at two sites may need different settings for the same network service. Repeatedly replacing one working configuration makes it easy to lose the details needed at the other site. Named network locations provide a way to keep those sets distinct.

Apple notes that most users can stay with the default Automatic location. Use additional locations when there is an actual requirement, such as different administrator-supplied Ethernet settings or a different order of network services.

Preserve the working configuration

For the System Settings workflow in macOS 13.1 or later, open Network, use the Action menu and choose Locations, Edit Locations. Apple provides both a new-location control and a Duplicate Location action for an existing entry.

Before editing, record which location currently works. If you need a variation of that configuration, duplicate it and give the copy a name that describes its purpose. Keep private network credentials out of ordinary setup notes.

Configure the new location using the values supplied for that network. Do not invent a static address, gateway or proxy merely to make the fields look complete. On a managed Mac, coordinate these requirements with the administrator.

Test a complete change and return

Switch locations through Network settings or the Apple menu’s Location item, which appears after additional locations exist. Confirm the selected name before testing the connection.

Test the services that matter at that site: for example, the required internal resource and an ordinary external website. A successful web page alone may not establish that the intended office route works.

At a suitable time, return to the original location and verify the original workflow again. Keep the physical connection and site conditions in your notes so the result is not confused with a test on a different network.

If one configuration fails, record its name, the network service and the exact missing function. Preserve the working location while investigating. The value of separate locations is a clear, reversible choice between understood configurations, not an invitation to cycle through unknown settings until a connection happens.

References: Apple: network locations.