How long should you replace Apple Router? (2024)

FAQs

How long should an Apple router last? ›

Typical consumer-grade networking hardware, that includes the Apple base stations (routers), which are expected to run 24x7x365, is around 3-5 years ... although they can last longer.

If you're experiencing slower speeds, especially when compared to the speeds promised by your internet service provider (ISP), it's a clear sign that your router may be the bottleneck in your network. Upgrading to a newer router can resolve these speed issues, providing a smoother and faster online experience.

Apple discontinued developing its lineup of wireless routers in 2016, but as of 2023 continues limited hardware and software support.

Experts recommend replacing your router at least every five years—and every two to three years for those of you who use several high-bandwidth devices and smart home devices. But your Wi-Fi router is an investment, and you're probably hesitant to replace it unless you know that you have to.

As a rule of thumb, a Netgear representative told us, consumers should consider replacing their router after three years, and representatives from Google and Linksys said a three-to-five-year window was appropriate. Amazon, which owns the popular Eero brand of routers, put the range at three to four years.

Most modems last for about 2-3 years but higher quality modems can last for 5-8 years. Most high quality modems end up being replaced because they become outdated, not because they have broken down.

In summary, to test the performance of your wireless router, you can use simple speed test tools available on Android and iOS or a more comprehensive network monitoring tool such as Network Watcher, Pulseway, or Atera.

One of the primary benefits of upgrading to a newer Wi-Fi router is faster speeds. Newer routers support the latest wireless standards, such as Wi-Fi 6, which offer faster speeds and better performance than older routers.

You can upgrade or replace a new router from your internet service provider. Place your router. Install your router in a centrally located area of your home. If possible, place your router in a higher position, like a shelf, and avoid potential interference from brick or concrete walls.

The problem was that the AirPort line paled in comparison to other routers on the market. Other routers were faster and offered improved speeds much sooner than the Apple AirPort routers. AirPort routers, in true Apple style, were also more expensive than other routers with similar specifications.

How do I update my Apple router? ›

After restarting your base station, select the base station in AirPort Utility to see details about it. If you have more than one base station, start with the one farthest from your primary base station. On Mac, the details pop-up shows an Update button when an update is available.

Features. The AirPort Extreme Base Station from Apple is a compact Internet router with powerful wireless capabilities.

Can a new router speed up my internet? A new router can't increase your internet connection speed—your 300Mbps plan stays the same. But a new router can make your Wi-Fi network run faster, especially if you're upgrading from an outdated or faulty one.

If you have an old or outdated router, you may be getting slower internet speeds than you should. It's not always the case, but typically if your router is older than a few years, it's probably worth evaluating whether it's time for an upgrade.

(If your old router is combined with your modem, you will need to go into its settings to disable the Wi-Fi network there.) All your devices should now automatically connect to your new router using the same network name and password. Verify your devices are working properly. You're done!

Before you throw in the towel on the AirPort Extreme......which should have a useful life of 7-8 years on average.....you might want to reset the device back to factory default settings and then set it up again.

The AirPort Extreme can handle up to 50 Wi-Fi devices and 100+ Ethernet devices.

Upgrade your router at least every five years—or after firmware updates end or you upgrade most of your wireless devices—especially if you need all the speed you can get.