Airport utility error message

Hi, I'm trying to setup Airport extreme for the first time and keep getting this message in Airport Utility,


"This version of AirPort Utility requires this AirPort Extreme use firmware version 7.3.1 or later. Go to AirPort Service and Support for more information."


Please can someone advise how to update the firmware on the Airport Extreme device?


Thanks!!

MacBook Air, iOS 9.2.1

Posted on Mar 5, 2016 5:26 AM

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6 replies

Mar 5, 2016 5:34 AM in response to nl123

This message indicates that you have a very old version of the AirPort Extreme.....so old in fact, that recent versions of the Mac operating system no longer support the product.


We need to get the model number of the device that you have to understand a bit more. The model number is located on the bottom of the AirPort Extreme, and it likely embedded in the foam pad base. The model number starts with an "A" followed by four numbers. Please post back with that information.


We'll know more when you reply but offhand, you will need....or be able to borrow for 30 minutes or so.....a Mac that is running a much older operating system like Leopard (10.5.x), Snow Leopard (10.6.x), or a PC with AirPort Utility 5.6.1 installed on the device.


If you purchased this product recently, you might want to consider returning it for a refund.

Mar 5, 2016 5:57 AM in response to nl123

Thanks for the info. The A1143 is at least 7 years old and as much as 8+ depending on when the product was originally sold.


Apple officially lists this product as Obsolete, so they will not provide any help on this model, even if you are willing to pay them.


If you have purchased this product recently, and have the option to return it for a refund, this is what I would recommend.


Otherwise, if you want to try to get it working, you will need to use an older Mac or PC.....as I mentioned in my last post.....to update the firmware on the AirPort Extreme. When (and if) this works, then you will be able to administer the product with your current Mac.


It's a real stretch, but if you live near an Apple Store, they might have an older Mac on hand that could be used to update the AirPort Extreme so that it would work with newer Macs.

Mar 5, 2016 6:45 AM in response to nl123

Unfortunately, I don't have a PC here to test, so I am not able to follow along with your set up. Hopefully, a PC user will see this post and be able to offer some PC help.

If you are trying to set up a printer using the PC, you will also need to download and install Bonjour Print Services for Windows.

Download Bonjour Print Services for Windows v2.0.2 - Apple

Run Bonjour on the PC to see if it might discover your printer.



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Airport utility error message

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