Success with toggling firmware revisions for wireless router dropouts

We continue to report on repeated lapses in network connectivity (dropouts) exhibited by various wireless routers (including Apple's own Base stations) when used in conjunction with AirPort-equipped Macs.

Yesterday we noted that toggling of firmware versions is perhaps the most successful fix for dropouts from virtually all manufacturers. The trick is in locating the firmware updates -- some manufacturers fail to offer them in Mac-based installer packages.

For Apple Base stations, the process is as easy as downloading and installing an older firmware release, for which Apple maintains downloads. Reversion to firmware version 6.1 for the AirPort Express or version 5.5.1 for the AirPort Extreme generally proves most successful (for instructions, see our AirPort tutorial).

Since our coverage yesterday, we've received a multitude of reports indicating success with firmware downgrades.

MacFixIt reader Ted writes:

"One month after downgrading the firmware from 6.3 to 6.1 running a G4 PB and a G5 PowerMac in OS 10.4.8 using two Airport Express units set up as a WDS system, I still show 5 bars anywhere within the house or porch with rock solid connectivity. This is the only thing that restored consistent and strong connectivity. I can once again use the Internet, send emails and print wirelessly from anywhere on my property with total reliability. Thanks for helping me solve this mind numbing problem!"

Steven Schwarts adds:

"I upgraded the firmware once as requested by a Linksys tech in order to get video i-chat connections to work better.   Very bad idea as it caused me to lose all connectivity.  I later found out from another Linksys tech that the most current firmware version does not work at all with Macintosh (at least that's what he told me).  After downgrading the firmware all was ok again or at least back to occasional dropouts which I am now living with.  By the way you will get approximately one in five correct answers from Linksys depending upon which rep you happen upon that day."

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

Previous coverage:

• More on wireless router dropouts (AirPort Base stations included): Try toggling firmware
• Mac-friendly wireless routers (#4): Models prone to dropped connections when connected to AirPort hardware; avoiding drops

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