Apple Releases Firmware Update 7.7.9 and 7.6.9 for AirPort Base Stations [Updated]

[MacRumors]

Apple today released new firmware updates for its Wi-Fi base stations, including the AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, and AirPort Time Capsule. The 7.7.9 update is available for 802.11ac base stations, while the 7.6.9 update is available for 802.11n base stations.

Release notes for the update were not provided by Apple, but it is likely that this firmware update fixes the KRACK Wi-Fi vulnerabilities that affected many modern Wi-Fi networks and devices.

The KRACK vulnerability had the potential to allow attackers to exploit weaknesses in the WPA2 protocol to decrypt network traffic to sniff out credit card numbers, usernames, passwords, photos, and other sensitive information. Apple released KRACK security updates for other devices earlier this year.

The new firmware updates can be installed using the AirPort Utility app for iOS or macOS.

Apple has allegedly stopped development on its AirPort wireless routers in 2016, and to our knowledge, the company does not plan to produce another product in the AirPort family in the near future.

Update: Support documents for the security contents of the 7.7.9 and 7.6.9 updates confirm that the KRACK Wi-Fi vulnerability has been addressed alongside a few other security issues.

Article Link: Apple Releases Firmware Update 7.7.9 and 7.6.9 for AirPort Base Stations [Updated]

 

[Chazzle]

Been waiting for this. Good news.

 

[AlexH]

Welcomed update, but man I wish they’d continue router development.

 

[imran5720]

Welcomed update, but man I wish they’d continue router development.

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

 

[avanpelt]

This update comes more than a month after my eeros were updated to patch the vulnerability. I’m glad I jumped off the AirPort bandwagon last year.

 

[AlexH]

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

It looks grim: https://www.macrumors.com/2016/11/21/apple-ceases-airport-wireless/

 

[IJ Reilly]

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

Allegedly™

 

[MH01]

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

Nope alive like the Mac Pro

 

[mariusignorello]

Hoping for AirPlay 2 suooort.

 

[69Mustang]

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

Personally I think they've stopped. Look at their recent style of announcing everything in advance. They pre-announced the iMac Pro, the HomePod, and the future Modular Mac Pro with new monitors no less. Wouldn't it seem really odd that the "one more thing" secret is... routers? iPad Socks would probably generate more excitement.

 

[Bokito]

Welcomed update, but man I wish they’d continue router development.

Yeah, I 100% agree to that. I’m living in an apartment block with more than 30 different networks available to pick from. My Time Capsule just works, but my ISP’s router is merely a backup.

I wish they’d bring back the old Mac software too. It’s way better than the iOSified version.

Airports are not the cheapest routers around, but I think it’s one of the best products Apple ever made.

 

[Loxen88]

Hoping for AirPlay 2 suooort.

This, so hoping for this.

 

[dippnerd]

Hoping for AirPlay 2 suooort.

I really don't want to get my hopes up, but it would be nice.

 

[joeldonaldson]

Found the security notes on Apple's site: https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208258 & https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT208354

 

[bsbeamer]

If updating from Mac, quit the AirPort Utility app after update. Appears to be a glitch in the software that wants to re-download and update after already installed.

 

[iapplelove]

I love my time capsule. If they ever discontinue it for good I would buy another even though mine still works.

 

[imran5720]

Personally I think they've stopped. Look at their recent style of announcing everything in advance. They pre-announced the iMac Pro, the HomePod, and the future Modular Mac Pro with new monitors no less. Wouldn't it seem really odd that the "one more thing" secret is... routers? iPad Socks would probably generate more excitement.

i need to buy new time-capsule, not sure if i should wait or just buy it now?

 

[TsMkLg068426]

Are you sure they completely stopped it?

Sadly yes last article I read on MacRumors Tim Cook rather move Wireless Router department to work on Driverless Cars instead which imo is really dumb.

 

[Amazing Iceman]

Interestingly, there was an update for my very old Airport Express (the one that plugs directly into the wall and has S/PDIF port).
And of course, and update for the new TimeCapsule.

 

[zorinlynx]

It looks grim: https://www.macrumors.com/2016/11/21/apple-ceases-airport-wireless/

There haven't been any major advances in WiFi performance since then, though. There is literally no reason to release a new router right now.

If a new WiFi standard comes along and Apple doesn't release a new router afterwards, THEN we can be sure that development is dead. But for now the current routers are still state of the art.

This firmware update shows that Apple is still supporting the products, and they are still for sale without stock problems.

 

[superduperultra]

I'd like to think they're totally rethinking their router strategy with some kind of mesh network.

There will be no announcement, just a cold press release one beautiful Tuesday morning.

 

[mariusignorello]

I'd like to think they're totally rethinking their router strategy with some kind of mesh network.

There will be no announcement, just a cold press release one beautiful Tuesday morning.

AirPort for the most part is mesh networking.

 

[superduperultra]

It's just not very user-friendly, there is a lot they could do to make it better for the hoi polloi.

 

[hagar]

My WiFi network frequently slows down and rebooting my time capsule seems to do the trick. What could be the problem?
I hope this update fixes the issue but I’m not holding my breath.

 

[A7ibaba]

I dont understand all those whining about discontinuation. Airport extreme got all you need. 802.11ac, 1.3 Gbp with simultaneous dual-band. Its not like something new will emerge next year,and tbh i dont see any new WIFI tech in next 5 years