Jazmin Li
Apple's AirPort is a pre-mesh networking system that allows users to expand their Wi-Fi coverage by adding additional AirPort devices. While it does not offer a true mesh network, it can create a roaming network, which functions similarly to a simple mesh setup. Apple has not updated the AirPort line in several years, and there are no indications that they plan to create a mesh Wi-Fi system in the future. However, Apple devices can work with third-party mesh networks, and some users have found creative ways to enhance their Wi-Fi coverage using AirPort devices.
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What You'll Learn
Apple's AirPort is pre-mesh
To create a mesh-like Wi-Fi network with AirPorts, you need to connect one AirPort to your modem as the "main" AirPort. All other AirPorts are then connected back to the "main" AirPort using wired Ethernet cable connections. Using the AirPort Utility set-up "wizard", you can configure each additional AirPort to "extend using Ethernet". This results in a network where all AirPorts provide a unified wireless signal, making it similar to a true mesh network.
While this setup can provide a mesh-like experience, it is not a dedicated mesh system. Apple has not released any updates for the AirPort line in several years, and they are no longer in the wireless network business. As a result, AirPort base stations are becoming outdated and may not offer the same level of performance and features as modern mesh Wi-Fi systems from other companies, such as Linksys, eero, and Google.
Additionally, Apple no longer supports AirPort base stations, and they have not received security updates in a while, making them potentially vulnerable to security threats. Therefore, while you can create a mesh-like network with AirPorts, it may be more beneficial to consider alternative mesh Wi-Fi systems or newer Apple-compatible options from other manufacturers.
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Apple is no longer in the wireless network business
Apple has not provided specific reasons for exiting the wireless router business. However, it is speculated that the company is happy to let other companies, such as Amplifi, eero, and Google Wifi, lead the way in terms of innovation and technology. Additionally, wireless internet connections have become a commodity, with many internet service providers bundling routers with their startup modem kits, making it easy for customers to set up their own wireless networks.
Apple users who are looking for mesh networking options are advised to consider third-party mesh router alternatives offered by other companies. While Apple does not offer a true "mesh" network system, users can create a roaming network by connecting multiple AirPort devices back to a main AirPort router using Ethernet cables. This allows Apple devices to seamlessly roam and connect to the closest AirPort, creating a similar effect to a mesh network.
It is worth noting that Apple's AirPort base stations are no longer supported and have not received security updates in a while, making them potentially vulnerable to security threats. As a result, users are encouraged to explore other mesh networking options or alternative routers that offer more advanced features and better security.
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Apple's AirPort offers unique features
Apple's AirPort is a discontinued line of wireless routers and network cards that was first introduced in 1999. While Apple no longer supports AirPort base stations and has not provided security updates in a while, the product line offered unique features that set it apart in the market.
One of the standout features of AirPort was its ability to create a mesh-like Wi-Fi network. Although Apple does not offer a true "mesh" network, users could set up a roaming network by connecting multiple AirPorts to a "main" AirPort using Ethernet cables. This created a seamless connection as users moved between different areas, with their devices automatically switching to the closest AirPort.
Another unique aspect of AirPort was its integration with Apple's ecosystem of devices. AirPort Express, for example, could be used to enable wireless printing with AirPrint, allowing users to print from their iOS devices. Additionally, AirPort Express featured AirPlay audio support, allowing users to connect directly to a speaker system and output music directly from their iOS devices.
AirPort Time Capsule, an AirPort Extreme with an internal hard drive, was also notable for its wireless backup capabilities. It allowed for automatic, untethered backups of client computers, providing a convenient way to store data.
Furthermore, AirPort offered flexibility in terms of speed and range. While AirPort Express provided an easy way to set up or extend a wireless network, AirPort Extreme offered up to three times faster Wi-Fi speeds. This allowed users to choose the option that best suited their needs, whether it was for a simple home setup or a more extensive network.
Lastly, AirPort had a user-friendly setup process. When adding a new AirPort to an existing network, the AirPort app for iOS or macOS would detect it, and users could easily add it to their network with just a few clicks or taps. This simplicity enhanced the overall user experience.
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Apple does not offer a true mesh network
A true mesh network is a wireless network that uses multiple nodes or access points to cover a larger area, with devices seamlessly switching between nodes as they move. This is in contrast to a traditional wireless network, which typically uses a single router or access point.
Apple's AirPort devices can be used to create a similar effect by connecting multiple AirPort devices back to a "main" AirPort device using Ethernet cables. This creates a roaming network, where devices will automatically switch to the strongest signal as they move around. However, this is not a true mesh network as the devices are not directly connected to each other and must connect through the main AirPort device.
Additionally, Apple's AirPort devices have not received updates or security patches in several years, making them vulnerable to potential attacks. As a result, many users have switched to alternative mesh networking solutions, such as those offered by Synology, Ubiquity, and Linksys.
While Apple has not released any new AirPort devices or mesh networking products, there is speculation that the company may integrate mesh networking capabilities into its other products, such as Apple TV or HomePod. However, as of now, Apple does not offer a true mesh network solution.
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Apple devices will seamlessly roam from AirPort to AirPort
To set up a roaming network with Apple AirPort, you need to follow a few steps. First, set up an AirPort to connect to your modem as the "main" AirPort. This "main" AirPort will be the base of your network. Next, connect all other AirPorts back to the "main" AirPort using a wired Ethernet cable connection. This ensures that your network remains stable and you don't experience performance loss.
Using the AirPort Utility set-up "wizard", configure all other AirPorts one at a time to "extend using Ethernet". By doing this, you will create a network where all of the AirPorts provide a wireless signal that uses the same wireless network name, wireless security, and password. This allows your Apple devices to seamlessly roam from one AirPort to another as they will all have the same network name and password.
It is important to note that Apple has not updated its AirPort line, including AirPort Extreme, AirPort Express, and Time Capsule, in several years. This means that Apple is no longer in the wireless network business and is not creating its own mesh Wi-Fi system. As a result, Apple devices may not roam as effectively between AirPorts as they would with a true mesh network. Additionally, Apple no longer supports AirPort base stations, and they may be vulnerable to security attacks.
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Frequently asked questions
No, Apple Airport is not a mesh network. Apple does not offer a true "mesh" type of network. The best option is a roaming network, which could be considered a simple mesh.
To set up a roaming network, you need to:
- Set up an Apple Airport to connect to your modem as the "main" Apple Airport.
- Connect all other Apple Airports back to the "main" Apple Airport using a wired Ethernet cable connection.
- Configure all other Apple Airports one by one to "extend using Ethernet" using the Apple Airport Utility set-up "wizard".
A roaming network does not offer the same level of seamless connectivity as a true mesh network. Apple devices will generally roam well between Apple Airports, but iOS devices like iPhones and iPads may struggle to switch between signals as they move.
Yes, it is possible to use a third-party mesh network with Apple Airport. However, Apple does not officially support this setup, so you may encounter issues with Time Machine backups and limited assistance from Apple.
There are several alternatives to Apple Airport for mesh networking, including:
- Linksys Velop
- Eero
- NETGEAR Orbi
- Google Wifi
- Synology routers
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