Apple periodically offers software updates (called firmware updates) that improve AirPort performance and functionality. Here's how to keep your base station up to date. 


How to get the latest firmware for your AirPort base station

Make sure that you're connected to the Internet.

  1. If you're using your base station to share a hard drive on your network, make sure that none of the devices on your network are currently using that drive. Updating an AirPort base station causes it and its network services to be temporarily unavailable.

  2. Open AirPort Utility on one of your devices.
    • On Mac, AirPort Utility is installed in the Utilities folder of your Applications folder. You can also find it with Spotlight.
    • On iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch, get AirPort Utility from the App Store.
  3. If AirPort Utility shows a numbered red badge next to the name of a base station, click it for details. (If the base station is protected by a device password, you might not see a badge until you click the base station and enter the password.)

  4. Install the update, if available:
    • On Mac, the details pop-up shows an Update button when a firmware update is available. Click the button to install.
    • On iOS devices, tap Version on the details screen. If an update is available, tap Download and Install.