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Q: Firmware upgrade just bricked my Airport Express

I went to change the password on my 1st gen Airport Express by using the Airport Utility. The utility prompted me to upgrade to the newer firmware version, which I allowed (without making the password change). After the upgrade went through it's routine and rebooted, no password would allow me to access the config screen. The very same password that was working minutes before was now no longer working.

 

Next I power cycled the unit...but now the Airport Express is a paperweight. It can't be accessed by the utility, nor can I join the network. The utility "sees" the airport and attempts to access it for configuration but returns with an "unexpected error" dialog and can go no further.

 

I tried to do a hard reset (holding in the reset button for five seconds while power cycling the unit) but it doesn't help. I get the same "unexpected error" dialog.

 

Obviously I'm frustrated that a firmware upgrade has just bricked an otherwise-working piece of gear. Firmware updates are supposed to improve products, not ruin them.

 

Any suggestions on how to restore this unit to working condition?

 

Thank you.

Screen Shot 2015-03-16 at 2.46.40 PM.png

AirPort Express 802.11n (1st Gen), null

Posted on Mar 16, 2015 3:18 PM

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