Q: This version of AirPort Utility doesn't support this base station. Use AirPort Utility 5.6 to configure or manage this base station. AirPort Utility 5.6 is available at AirPort Service and Support.

I assume that your MacBook Pro is running OS X Mountain Lion ... correct? If so, version 5.6 can run just fine on this version of OS X; it just can't be installed in the traditional way.

Here are the basic steps to install version 5.6 under Mountain Lion using CharlesSoft's Pacifist:

1. If you haven't already download the AirPort Utility disk image file directly from Apple Support Download
2. Place the resultant AirPortUtility56.dmg file onto your Mac's Desktop.
3. Run Pacifist.
4. Click on the Open Package option. Find the disk image file that you just placed on your desktop, and then, click on Open.
5. The utility is located as follows: Contents of AirPortUtility56.dmg > Contents of AirPortUtility56.pkg > Contents of AirPortUtility56Lion.pkg > Applications > Utilities > AirPort Utility 5.6.app
6. Drag AirPort Utility 5.6.app to your Mac's /Applications/Utilities folder.

You can now run the AirPort Utility from the Utilities folder.

Big thank's for your answer. I was getting crazy with that app but now it's okay, thank's a lot

Seriously, HUGE thanks... never would have figured this out!

A simply amazing set of instructions - thanks for the fix - this has been twisting my brain for a while.

hmmm. this isn't working for me.  i run pacifist and open the dmg file that i downloaded from the apple support page and i get a dialogue box that says "no receipts were found mathcing the search queries."   what can i do?

thanks!

Worked great - thanks for the simple, clear instructions

Worked first time - thanks

Fantastic instructions. Exactly what I needed. Thanks!

worked like a charm...thanks for the easy to follow instructions.

Great answer, much appreciated.  Stops my Airport Express going obsolete just because Apple decides not to support it on the current OS

Great post, thanks!

Allows us to continue using kit that has nothing wrong with it.

I understand things have to move on, but if AU 5.6 can still work along side 6.2, why not combine and support perfectly good older airports ... is it coding or sales?

You are actually a genius!

I have been wondering how to do this for literally years.

I can now use my old AE. I was about to buy a new one!

Thanks.

I downloaded the file (AirPortUtility56.dmg) but it won't let me install it. It says "AirPort Utility can't be installed on this disk. The version of Max OSX on this volume is not supported". Any ideas?

Ignore my last comment, I've managed to get Airport Express showing. I am now in Old Airport Utility and it's asking me if I want to switch wireless networks. What I want to do it keep my original router which supplys broadband and connect my Airport Express so I can play music through it wirelessly. Any ideas?