Which mode allows a Mac to start from a compatible network server?

The mode that allows a Mac to start from a compatible network server is known as NetBoot. This feature enables Macs to boot directly from a macOS image that is hosted on a server, providing a method for system setup and management across multiple devices on a network. When a Mac is configured to use NetBoot, it can access the operating system and applications stored on the network instead of relying on local storage.

This mode is particularly useful in enterprise and educational environments where numerous Macs are set up in a similar manner, allowing for streamlined deployments, updates, and maintenance. NetBoot facilitates efficient resource management and reduces the need for physical media, making it a vital tool in network administration.

Other modes, such as Target Disk Mode, Verbose Mode, and Safe Boot mode, serve different purposes. Target Disk Mode enables data transfer between two Macs, Verbose Mode provides a detailed boot process display for troubleshooting, and Safe Boot mode starts the Mac with minimal system extensions and caches to help diagnose issues. However, none of these modes provide the capability to boot from a network server like NetBoot does.