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Boosting AirPort Extreme/Express throughput: Set as 802.11g-only

Boosting AirPort Extreme/Express throughput: Set as 802.11g-only

CNET staff

Eliminating bottlenecks in wireless connections can be a frustrating process. Myriad factors, including interference, software polling utilities (like CoconutWiFi) and more can cause less-than-optimal throughput. These and many other speed-boost procedures can be found in our AirPort tutorial.

Poor AirPort throughput is especially pronounced on some Core 2 Duo-based Macs.

We've now identified an additional workaround that has proven successful for boosting throughput from AirPort Express and Extreme routers -- setting the Base stations for 802.11g access only. This can be accomplished with the AirPort Admin Utility (located in Applications/Utilities).

Open the AirPort Admin Utility, and click on your desired Base station on the left-hand pane, then select "Configure." Go to the "AirPort" tab at the top. Next, find the "Mode" pop-up menu, and select 802.11g-only. Of course, you will need a Mac with an AirPort Extreme or other 802.11g-compatible wireless device in order to connect to the Base station.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Resources

  • AirPort tutorial
  • Late-breakers@macfixit.com
  • More from Late-Breakers