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Apple Launches Security Update for AirPort Router; see how to upgrade

Apple has released a major firmware update for its AirPort routers. Although the manufacturer does not disclose details of the update, it may correct a critical flaw in the Wi-Fi WPA2 protocol. The vulnerability, known as KRACK, would allow theft of sensitive information such as passwords and card numbers credit. In addition, the company also reported that it has addressed other security breaches, without specifying which ones.

The update has number 7.6.9 or 7.7.9. The first version is available for AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme and AirPort Time Capsule with Wi-Fi 802.11ac, while the second version is for devices with 802.11n connectivity. Check out, in the following tutorial, the step by step how to download and install the update. The procedure is the same in both cases.

Apple Router: Understand the difference between AirPort models

Learn how to update your AirPort firmware to protect yourself from the latest security threats

Step 1. Open the "AirPort Utility". To do this, in macOS, press "command + space bar" to open the Spotlight search and type "AirPort" (without the quotation marks);

Open the AirPort Management Utility

Step 2. Next, click on the name of your AirPort and, in the popup that appears, click on "Update";

Updating device firmware

Step 3. A message informs you that the router will restart and the Internet will be temporarily unavailable. Click "Continue" to restart and install the update;

Restart the router to install update

Step 4. When finished, click on the name of your router again. Now look at the version number, which should be either 7.6.9 or 7.7.9, depending on your AirPort model.