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nl123
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Q: 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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nl123

Q: Airport utility error message

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  • by Bob Timmons,

    Bob Timmons Bob Timmons Mar 5, 2016 5:34 AM in response to nl123
    Level 10 (105,018 points)
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    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.

  • by nl123,

    nl123 nl123 Mar 5, 2016 5:39 AM in response to Bob Timmons
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Mar 5, 2016 5:39 AM in response to Bob Timmons

    The model No. is A1143

  • by Bob Timmons,

    Bob Timmons Bob Timmons Mar 5, 2016 5:57 AM in response to nl123
    Level 10 (105,018 points)
    Wireless
    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.

  • by nl123,

    nl123 nl123 Mar 5, 2016 6:19 AM in response to Bob Timmons
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Mar 5, 2016 6:19 AM in response to Bob Timmons

    Thanks for your reply, I need this model to connect to a printer and don't want to spend money on a newer one, I have downloaded airport utility 5.6.1 but it does not seem to  scan the device, I've unplugged it and re plugged it but still doesn't detect it

     

    I'd appreciate if you could help me set this up

  • by nl123,

    nl123 nl123 Mar 5, 2016 6:33 AM in response to nl123
    Level 1 (0 points)
    Mar 5, 2016 6:33 AM in response to nl123

    As in, i've downoaded 5.6.1 on my PC

  • by Bob Timmons,

    Bob Timmons Bob Timmons Mar 5, 2016 6:45 AM in response to nl123
    Level 10 (105,018 points)
    Wireless
    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.