Notes on a Dual-Mode AirPort Extreme Network

Excellent step-by-step instructions for setting up a dual-mode Wi-Fi network with two AirPort base stations. The idea is that you bridge two base stations and create one network with two modes: one using 802.11n at 5GHz and the other using 802.11g. This setup allows all clients to connect at their highest possible speed.

The very latest AirPort base stations can do this by themselves, with no need for a second base station. But if you’re like me and already have more than one AirPort base station, including one that supports 802.11n, there’s no need to buy a new base station. I put off setting this up until a little over a week ago — up until then, I’d been running just my 802.11n base station in “compatibility” mode. The difference has been dramatic, especially on n-capable clients — both speed and Wi-Fi signal range are better.

★ Monday, 13 July 2009