Apple Airport Routers: Still A Good Choice?

Apple Airport routers are no longer supported by Apple, which has led many users to question whether they should continue using them. Despite this, many users report that their Apple Airport routers continue to work well, with some saying they have used them for close to a decade without issues. However, there are concerns about security, with Apple having provided the last security update for the routers about three years ago. Users who want the latest and greatest in terms of security and features have started switching to other routers, but for basic home networks, Apple Airport routers still provide good WPA2 Personal security.

Apple Airport Extreme: Is it still a secure option?

The Apple Airport Extreme is a wireless router that was discontinued by Apple in 2018. Despite this, many users continue to use the product and find that it satisfies their needs. In terms of security, Apple issued its last update for the Airport Extreme around three years ago, and the router still provides WPA2 Wi-Fi Security. While this level of security is adequate for most home users, those who require the latest and greatest features have already switched to other routers.

The average useful life of most routers designed for home use is about 5-6 years. However, some Apple Airport Extreme users have reported using their devices for 8-10 years without issues. It is important to note that the "issues" on the AirPort Extreme tend to start picking up at about 7-8 years of use. Therefore, it is recommended to consider replacing the device after 5-6 years to ensure optimal performance and security.

You may consider replacing your Airport Extreme when it no longer delivers the speed that your Internet provider is supplying, or when there are newer features provided by other routers that you need and the Airport Extreme cannot provide. Additionally, if Apple has not provided any security updates for the product in over a year, or if the device stops working altogether, it may be time for a replacement.

If you are looking for a simple and reliable replacement for your Airport Extreme, you may want to consider routers from brands such as Synology or Asus. These routers offer features such as WPA3 / 802.11ax (now called WiFi 6) and are backwards compatible with your current wireless clients. Additionally, you can explore options from Ubiquiti, which offers more advanced, prosumer/business-grade equipment.

Apple Airport Extreme: How does it compare to newer routers?

The Apple Airport Extreme is a popular router that has been discontinued but is still used by many people. In this article, we will compare the Apple Airport Extreme to newer routers and discuss its performance, features, and security.

Performance

The Apple Airport Extreme is known for its impressive performance, even for today's standards. One user reported that their Airport Extreme (6th Generation) was able to achieve a WiFi connection speed of 1,170 MBit/s, which is still very fast. However, it is important to note that the actual speed you experience can vary depending on various factors such as your internet service provider, the number of devices connected, and the distance from the router.

Features

The Airport Extreme offers many features that were impressive when it was first released, such as easy setup and administration. However, newer routers have introduced advanced features such as 802.11ax (WiFi 6) and WPA3 security, which are not supported by the Airport Extreme. If you are looking for the latest features, you may need to consider upgrading to a newer router.

Security

The Airport Extreme provides good basic WPA2 Personal security, which is still adequate for most home users. However, it is important to note that Apple has not released any security updates for the Airport Extreme in recent years. The last security update was released about 3 years ago, and there is no guarantee that Apple will continue to provide updates in the future. If you are concerned about having the latest security features, you may want to consider switching to a newer router.

The Apple Airport Extreme is a capable router that can still provide good performance and security for home networks. However, compared to newer routers, it may lack some advanced features and the latest security updates. Ultimately, the decision to stick with the Airport Extreme or upgrade to a newer router depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you are satisfied with the performance and features of your current setup, there is no harm in continuing to use the Airport Extreme. However, if you require the latest features and security updates, upgrading to a newer router may be a better option.

Apple Airport Extreme: What are the signs that it needs replacing?

The Apple Airport Extreme is a reliable and high-performing router that has been a popular choice for many users. However, as with all technology, it may eventually need to be replaced. Here are some signs that your Apple Airport Extreme might be reaching the end of its life and needs to be upgraded:

• Discontinuation of Support: Apple discontinued the Airport Extreme in 2018 and offered support for five years after that, so it is important to keep this timeline in mind. While some users have reported that their Airport Extremes are still functioning well even after this period, the lack of official support means that you may encounter issues with security updates, bug fixes, and technical assistance from Apple.
• Age and Performance: The average lifespan of most home routers is around 5-6 years. If your Airport Extreme is older than this, it may be living on borrowed time. Keep an eye out for performance issues such as slower speeds, connectivity problems, or frequent disconnects, as these could indicate that it's time for a replacement.
• Security Concerns: If Apple hasn't provided any security updates for the Airport Extreme in over a year, it may be a good idea to consider switching to a newer router with more up-to-date security features. The last security update for the Airport Extreme was released around three years ago, and while WPA2 Wi-Fi Security is still adequate for most home users, those seeking the latest security features may want to upgrade.
• Newer Features: If there are newer features provided by other router systems that you need and the Airport Extreme cannot provide, it may be time to consider an upgrade. This could include newer security protocols, improved range, faster speeds, or additional connectivity options.
• Functionality: The most obvious sign that it's time to replace your Airport Extreme is if it completely stops working or experiences frequent crashes and malfunctions. If your router is no longer functioning properly and you've exhausted all troubleshooting options, it's probably time to invest in a new one.

While the Apple Airport Extreme has been a trusted networking device for many, it's important to stay vigilant about its performance, security, and the availability of updates. By keeping an eye out for the signs mentioned above, you can ensure that you replace your Airport Extreme at the right time and maintain a seamless networking experience.

Apple Airport Extreme: What are the best replacement options?

Apple discontinued its line of AirPort and Time Capsule Wi-Fi gateways in 2018, and while many users continue to use their AirPort routers without issue, there are several alternative options available for those looking to upgrade.

Netgear Nighthawk AC1750

The Netgear Nighthawk AC1750 is a good drop-in replacement for the Apple Airport Extreme. It offers similar features, including a USB 3.0 port for hard-drive sharing, a USB 2.0 port for printer sharing, and a four-port gigabit ethernet LAN switch. It also allows for QoS (Quality of Service) prioritisation, enabling you to elevate audio and video streaming above other data, improving playback.

Netgear Orbi

Netgear Orbi is a mesh networking system that received top marks from reviewers. It offers robust connections between nodes, which self-configure to make the optimum connection for routing data. The system also provides helpful placement suggestions for optimal performance.

Linksys Velop

Linksys Velop is another mesh networking system that offers better throughput through its radio design. A two-node package can provide coverage for many houses, and a three-node bundle is also available. Each unit includes two gigabit ethernet jacks, one of which must be connected to a broadband modem.

TP-Link Deco M5

TP-Link Deco M5 is a budget-friendly mesh networking option that offers good coverage at a lower price point.

Amplify Alien

The Amplify Alien is a highly-regarded router that provides excellent coverage without the need for mesh networking. It has a sleek design, good parental controls, and delivers fast internet speeds. However, it lacks a USB port and does not support WPA3.

Synology WRX560

The Synology WRX560 is a feature-rich router that offers dedicated wireless backhaul and a USB port for Time Machine backups. It has received excellent reviews for performance, specifications, and coverage.

Ubiquiti UniFi

Ubiquiti UniFi gear is a robust networking solution that includes mesh networking support. It is a good choice for those who prefer a network that relies on an Ethernet backbone.

Zyxel

Zyxel is another reliable networking option that has been recommended by users.

Asus

Asus routers have also been suggested as a good alternative to Apple Airport Extreme, offering many features and reliable performance.

Apple Airport Extreme: How do you set it up?

Setting up an Apple Airport Extreme router can be done in a few simple steps. Firstly, you will need to physically connect the base station to your modem. This involves connecting the power cord to the Power port on the base station and plugging it into a wall outlet. Next, connect an Ethernet cable to the WAN port on the base station and then into your DSL or cable modem.

If you don't use a modem or connect in a different way, you can get connection instructions from your ISP. Once the hardware is connected, you can set up the base station using either your Mac or iPhone/iPad. On your Mac, click the Wi-Fi icon in the menu bar and select the base station listed under 'New AirPort Base Station'. Then, simply follow the onscreen instructions.

On an iPhone/iPad, go to 'Settings', then 'Wi-Fi', and tap the name of your base station listed under 'Set up a new AirPort base station'. Again, follow the onscreen instructions. The setup assistant will automatically choose settings based on your network. If you wish to set up your network using different settings, click 'Other Options'.

If you want to set up your Airport Extreme and Airport Express in series/bridge mode with a Comcast modem, the process is a little different. You will need to run the AirPort Utility and select the desired base station. On the Network tab, change the Router Mode to 'Off (Bridge Mode)'. Then, select 'Update' and allow the base station to restart. Finally, tap on the AirPort Utility app, select the desired base station, tap 'Edit', 'Advanced', 'DHCP and NAT', and change the Router Mode to 'Off (Bridge Mode)'.

Frequently asked questions