AirPort and AirPort Extreme

AirPort and AirPort Extreme are Apple's implementation of IEEE 802.11b and 802.11g wireless protocols (often called WiFi or wireless Ethernet), respectively, and use the same protocols as an Ethernet network.

AirPort networking is enabled in Network preferences and Internet Connect.

Both protocols use WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy). AirPort has a range of 50 feet. AirPort Extreme has a range of 150 feet. Bridging and amplification can be used to cover longer distances.

Both protocols support TCP/IP, AppleTalk, and PPTP (for VPN connections).

AirPort and AirPort Extreme depend upon kernel extensions in /System/Library/Extensions. AppleAirPort.kext kernel extensions are stored there.

AirPort utilities located in /Applications/Utilities include:

• AirPort Setup Assistant (to set up and configure AirPort)

• AirPort Admin Utility (to configure and maintain AirPort network)

Two other AirPort utilities available only with AirPort Extreme Base Stations include:

• AirPort Management Utility (to manage multiple AirPort devices)

• AirPort Client Monitor (to view client AirPort performance)