Problems after applying the pulled AirPort 2008-003 update

Users who were (un)lucky enough to install AirPort 2008-003 update before it was pulled by Apple are experiencing some wireless connectivity issues, including slower connections and an inability to connect to previously accessible networks.

Some users have problems connection to networks with PEAP authentication after the update. One reader writes:

"We use a WPA Enterprise network with PEAP authentication at work - this configuration doesn't work anymore after the AirPort 2008-003 update. (Maybe that's why Apple pulled it back.)"

Other users report slower or spotty conections:

• "Since updating, on my MacBook Pro, my internet connection, especially when checking mail, is intermittent at best.
• "I installed, and have now been experiencing worse wireless access. Web pages have noticeably slowed down, as has my email connection etc."

Some users cannot see their AirPort cards after the update. One reader writes:

"Since the update my airport card is gone! Can't turn it on and in Network Utility it shows 802.11 a/b/g instead of a/b/g/n!"

If you're experiencing similar issues, peruse our wireless troubleshooting tutorial.

If you are experiencing severe, insoluble issues afer the update, you can completely remove all traces of the update via an Archive and Install. This can be accomplished via the following process, adapted from our tutorial on reverting to a previous iteration of Mac OS X. Note, however, that reverting your system will remove any refinements brought by the update and leave your system open to potential vulnerabilities.

First, make a backup of your current Mac OS X installation with the Security Update applied, problematic as it may be. If there is an issue along the way, your valuable data will be safely intact in its current form.

Next, you'll need to perform an Archive and Install process to remove all of the Security Update's (and potentially problem-causing) components, and replace them with the components of a fresh copy provided by the Mac OS X disc that shipped with your system, or a retail Mac OS X disc. Unfortunately, this means you will lose some system settings and some or all third-party system add-ons.

To begin the process, insert your Mac OS X CD or DVD, as indicated above. Restart your machine and hold down the "C" key to boot from the newly inserted disc. Follow the on-screen instructions, and after accepting the license agreement, click "Options." Select "Archive and Install," and check the "Preserve User and Network Settings" option if you'd like to do so.

After the installation process is complete, you will be left with an earlier Mac OS X system that (hopefully) does not suffer from the problems generated by the Security Update. Use Software Update or Apple's download page to download the update that brings your system to a state directly prior to the Security Update

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