Apple’s AirPort lineup was discontinued last year. However, the company is still supporting the devices and has now rolled out a new firmware security update (7.8.1). Airport Express, Extreme, and Time Capsule Base Stations have already received the security update. The update is meant for all 802.11n Wi-Fi base stations.
It is good to see Apple keeping up to their promise and updating the discontinued AirPort devices. Apple has not revealed the update specifics but claims that it improves the security of all 802.11n Wi-Fi base stations. The AirPort was previously updated to version 7.6.9 in December 2017.
AirPort and Time Capsule users can update by using AirPort Utility in macOS. The tool will automatically scan for an update and it will be installed upon approval. Apple decided to discontinue the AirPort WiFi router in April last year. It was later learned that Apple had pulled the shutters on the AirPort division and reassigned the employees to other divisions.
“Firmware update 7.8.1 improves the security of your base station and is recommended for all Apple 802.11n Wi-Fi base stations including AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme and AirPort Time Capsule”
Apple has also announced a new HomePod security feature meant for safeguarding third-party routers. If you need help updating the AirPort’s firmware, please refer to the support document. After disbanding the AirPort, Apple started selling Linksys Velop Mesh WiFi System on its store.
