Starting to have problems streaming. Updated software but still not getting good service. Would buying a new Apple AirPort Extreme/Express help. Someone had told me that I should buy a replacement as it is probably outdated. This didn't make sense when I am using the latest software update.
Unfortunately, most consumer-grade networking hardware has a useful lifespan of about 3-5 years. There are exceptions, of course, but this would be typical. If your AirPort Extreme is about 4 years old, then it is most likely a 5th generation 802.11n model. These came out in Jun 2011 and were discontinued in Jun 2013; however, they are still considered "supported" by Apple.
The latest firmware for this base station, came out a short while ago and would be version 7.6.7.
Before considering replacing it, you may want to "start from scratch" by performing a "factory default" reset on the base station, and then, use the AirPort Utility to set it back up for your networking goals. This reset alone may resolve the issue you are having with it. If not, then it may be failing and a replacement would be in order.
I have an AirPort Extreme that is about 4 years old.
