Apple AirPort 2006-002 update (#2): What does it do?
Apple AirPort 2006-002 update (#2): What does it do?
Apple is notorious for cryptic release notes, and the AirPort Update 2006-002 for Core 2 Duo MacBooks and MacBook Pros is no exception. The company indicates only that the release "improves AirPort compatibility." Generally, users are left to discover improvements on their own, which are then reported via other outlets (including here at MacFixIt).
This particular update, however, has left some users scratching their heads. Many readers hoped for an improvement in dismal wireless throughput generated by some Core 2 Duo Mac portables, but have found no discernible increase.
MacFixIt reader Ivan Trundle, for instance, writes: "Just installed AirPort Update 2006-002 - no difference. Still only get 60KB/s in and out. Reliability is fine, but data throughput is appalling through Apple Extreme Base Stations using WEP."
Other users hoped for resolution of incompatibility issues with third-party wireless routers -- particularly those manufactured by SMC -- that cropped up after application of Security Update 2006-007. These users too were left disappointed.
This begs the question -- what real-world improvements were actually made with this update?
It could be that wireless routers (including AirPort-branded Base stations) need to be restored to default settings -- for most routers, pressing and holding the reset button will do the trick -- in order for improvements contained in this update to take effect. However, we haven't noticed any differences using this method in-house.
If you've found resolution of any pre-existing issues with application of AirPort 2006-002 update on a Core 2 Duo-based MacBook or MacBook Pro, please let us know.
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