Ruth Haines
Apple's AirPort Extreme wireless routers were discontinued in 2018, and many users have since sought replacement options. Common reasons for replacing the AirPort Extreme include aging hardware, slow speeds, and a lack of new features. Users have suggested a range of replacement options, including the Ubiquiti UniFi gear, Synology routers, and the Eero 6. When replacing the AirPort Extreme, it is important to consider factors such as Wi-Fi standards, Ethernet ports, and additional features like antivirus protection and cloud management services.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why replace Apple Airport Extreme | Apple Airport Extreme is old technology with no new features, and Apple is not introducing new products in this line |
| Alternatives | Eero Pro, Ubiquiti UniFi gear, Asus, Synology, Zyxel, TP-Link X20 or X60, Eero 6 |
| Steps to replace | Plug in the new AirPort next to the old router, select the Wi-Fi network the AirPort is replacing, enter its password, switch over any Ethernet wires, get rid of the old base station |
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What You'll Learn
Apple discontinued the AirPort line in 2018
Apple's AirPort line of Wi-Fi routers was discontinued in 2018. The AirPort line was first introduced in 1999 and included the AirPort Base Station (later AirPort Extreme), the AirPort Time Capsule, and the AirPort Express. Over the years, Apple released several updated versions of the AirPort Extreme, such as the AirPort Extreme 802.11n (5th Generation) in 2011 and the AirPort Extreme Base Station with Power over Ethernet in 2004.
The decision to discontinue the AirPort line in 2018 was not entirely unexpected. As early as 2016, there were reports that Apple had disbanded the team responsible for developing its routers. Additionally, the AirPort line was growing increasingly dated, especially considering its premium price, as it lacked a mesh tri-band system.
After discontinuing the AirPort line, Apple began retailing routers from third-party brands such as Linksys, Netgear, and Eero in its stores. These routers often took design cues from Apple's AirPort line, featuring sleek and unassuming designs.
Despite the discontinuation, many AirPort users have expressed their satisfaction with the product's reliability and ease of use. Some have sought replacement options that offer similar features and performance, with suggestions including routers from Ubiquiti, Synology, Asus, and Zyxel.
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Users have replaced AirPort Extreme with Eero Pro
Many users have replaced their Apple AirPort Extreme with the Eero Pro. The Eero Pro is a mesh Wi-Fi kit that is easy to set up and manage, with an app on your iPhone or Android phone. It is a stylish-looking device and was picked as the best mesh Wi-Fi kit by the New York Times' Wirecutter in 2019.
However, some users have expressed concerns about the Eero Pro's stability and reliability due to incessant and mandatory updates and restarts. Additionally, Eero has a subscription model that locks basic features behind a paywall and lacks some advanced features found in other products at the same price point.
If you have speakers plugged into your AirPort, it is important to note that none of the Eero products support this. You will need to replace your speakers with ones that support AirPlay, such as Apple's HomePod or Sonos Wi-Fi speakers.
When replacing your AirPort Extreme with an Eero Pro, you will need to disable the wireless and routing functions on either your AirPort device or your Eeros. It is recommended to bridge your AirPort device, turning it into a network-enabled hard drive and gigabit switch. This will allow you to control your network's advanced features via the Eero app.
Overall, the Eero Pro is a popular choice for users replacing their Apple AirPort Extreme, offering improved speed and ease of use, but there are some considerations and limitations to keep in mind.
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Synology routers offer more features than AirPort Extreme
If you are looking to replace your Apple AirPort Extreme router, Synology routers offer a range of features that might be of interest. Synology routers are powerful wireless routers that are suitable for homes and small offices. They provide users with the ability to understand, control, and secure their network.
The Synology RT2600ac is a popular choice for those moving from the AirPort Extreme. It offers wireless technology that will serve users well into the future and is extremely easy to use with its SRM operating system and DS Router app. The RT2600ac also comes with a feature called Smart Connect, which combines the unit's SSID with the shared Wi-Fi settings for both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, providing the best possible connection for compatible devices.
Synology routers also support Time Machine backups to a hard drive connected via USB, a feature that is important to some users. Additionally, Synology's routers are known for their easy-to-use interfaces, with an iOS app that is similar to the AirPort Utility app.
For those seeking a single router to cover a large area, the Synology WRX560 has received excellent reviews for its performance, specifications, and coverage. It offers dedicated wireless backhaul and a 5.9 GHz band, providing strong connectivity.
Overall, Synology routers offer a wide range of features that can be a significant upgrade for those moving from the AirPort Extreme. With their powerful performance, ease of use, and additional functionalities, they are a great option for users seeking to understand, control, and secure their network infrastructure.
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UniFi by Ubiquiti is a good replacement
The setup process for the Dream Machine is straightforward and quick, taking less than 15 minutes for some users. To physically make the switch from Apple Airport Extreme to the Dream Machine, users simply need to move all cables from the Airport Extreme to the Dream Machine, reset the cable modem, and plug in the power cable.
In addition to the Dream Machine, Ubiquiti also offers the UniFi Express, which has been recommended as a direct replacement for the Apple Airport Extreme. The UniFi Express is said to have a similar design to the 2nd generation Apple Airport Express base station but with enhanced capabilities.
Users who have replaced their Apple Airport Extreme with UniFi by Ubiquiti products have reported improvements in their home networking experience, including fixing dead zones in their houses and providing more information about their internet usage. Ubiquiti's products are known for their reliability, with some users reporting no slowdowns or need to reboot, which is a common issue with the Apple Airport Extreme.
Overall, UniFi by Ubiquiti offers a range of products that can serve as good replacements for the Apple Airport Extreme, providing enhanced features, reliability, and ease of use.
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AirPort Extreme can be replaced with a 2nd generation AirPort Express
If your Apple AirPort Extreme has stopped working, you can replace it with a 2nd generation AirPort Express. However, it is worth noting that the AirPort Express is much slower than the AirPort Extreme for both wired and wireless connections.
If you are looking for a direct replacement for the AirPort Extreme, the UniFi Express is a great option. It looks similar to the 2nd generation AirPort Express base station but is more capable. However, it does not support AirPlay.
If you are looking for alternatives to the AirPort Extreme, there are several options available:
- Synology routers offer many more features than Apple provided with their AirPort Extreme models.
- Ubiquiti UniFi gear offers reliable, well-designed, and simple products.
- TP-Link X20 or X60 comes with the free HomeCare suite, which includes intrusion detection, infected device quarantine, and Trend Micro antivirus and malicious content filters.
- Eero Pro setup offers a similar experience to the Apple network app.
It is important to consider your specific needs and requirements when choosing a replacement for your AirPort Extreme. Some factors to consider include speed, range, compatibility, and additional features.
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Frequently asked questions
Apple provides a one-tap option for setting up your new AirPort to clone and replace your old network. Plug in your new AirPort next to your old router and open Settings > Wi-Fi on your iPhone. Once connected, it will automatically offer to extend your current network. Tap Other Options, then tap Next and select Replace an Existing Device.
Some alternatives to the Apple Airport Extreme are the Ubiquiti UniFi gear, the Synology line, the Asus line, the Eero Pro 6, and the TPLink X20 or X60.
If your Apple Airport Extreme is acting up, it might be time to replace it. If your device is old, it may be using outdated technology and not receiving any new features. Additionally, if your wireless internet is slow or you are experiencing frequent connection issues, you may need to upgrade to a new wireless device.
