When should I replace my airport extreme?

When should I replace my airport extreme?

1. When it no longer delivers the speed that your Internet provider is supplying to you.
2. When there is a newer feature provided by another router system that you need that the AirPort Extreme cannot provide.
3. When you are concerned that Apple has not provided any security updates for the product in over a year.
4. When the AirPort Extreme stops working.

If you could provide the model number of your AirPort Extreme, we can tell you a bit more about it. If you have an older "flat" version, that looks like a small white pizza box with rounded corners, look on the bottom of the device for the model number. It is usually embedded in the foam pad base........starts with an "A" followed by 4 numbers. Post back with that info.

Or, if you have the version that looks like an 8 inch tall "tower", just tell us about how old the device might be.

A1354 was known as a 4th Generation AirPort Extreme 801.11n, introduced in October 2009 and discontinued in June 2011, so your AirPort is at least 9 years old and as much as 10+ depending on when it was placed into service.

The average useful life of most routers designed or home use is about 5-6 years, so you have had remarkably good luck with your AirPort. Frankly, the AirPort is living on borrowed time at this point, but there is certainly no harm in continuing to use the product as long as it meets your current needs.

Interestingly, Apple classifies this model as "Obsolete" as far as support status is concerned, which means that they will not help you with the product, even if you are willing to pay them.

The last firmware/security update for this model was offered by Apple about a year ago. Whether or not Apple will continue to offer updates is open to question.