AirPort Express Firmware reversion for 6.1.1 problems

Yesterday we reported that some users are having issues with their AirPort Express units after applying the recently released version 6.1.1 firmware. The issues include an inability to use the Airport Admin or Setup Assistant tool, loss of Internet access, and more.

Some users have now reported that reverting to an earlier version of the AirPort Express firmware resolves these issues. Instructions for the process are as follows:

1. Find the original AirPort Express software CD that came with the AirPort Express.
2. Download and install Pacifist (a utility that lets you extract files from Apple Installer packages).
3. On the AirPort Express software CD, find the file AirPortSW.pkg. (It's an invisible file, so the easiest way to find it is to use the Finder's Find command, using the "visible and invisible items" option. Also, at the top of the window, choose "Specific places" from the "Search in" pop-up menu; then make sure only the AirPort Express software CD is checked.) Drag the AirPortSW.pkg file onto the Pacifist application icon to open it in Pacifist.
4. In Pacifist, expand the disclosure triangles to locate the file /System/Library/PrivateFrameworks/Apple80211.frameworks/Versions/A/Resources/APBinary4.dat.
5. Select the APBinary4.dat file in Pacifist and then click the "Extract To..." button in the toolbar; save the file to your Desktop.
6. Using the Finder's Get Info command, rename the new file on your Desktop from APBinary4.dat to APBinary4.bin.
7. Launch Airport Admin Utility, select your AirPort Express and click Configure.
8. Click the Upload button in the toolbar, select the file APBinary4.bin, and then upload it.

Feedback? Late-breakers@macfixit.com.

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