AirPort for Windows unable to find or communicate with AirPort Base Stations

Due to common configuration issues which are not AirPort specific, some Microsoft Windows computers may experience difficulty communicating with or configuring any wireless base station, such as an AirPort Express, AirPort Extreme, or a Linksys Wireless-G, for example. This may be caused by:

• Third-party software issues
• Running a Microsoft OS without the latest updates
• Entering an incorrect WEP or WPA password

When this happens, the wireless icon in the Task Bar indicates that the computer is connected to the wireless network, but you are unable to get any Internet data, and the Status window for the wireless connection shows that you have limited or no connectivity. You may also see that the computer has self-assigned a 169.254.xxx.xxx IP address.

To resolve the issue, try these steps:

1. Make sure that you have the latest Service Pack updates from Microsoft. You may also wish to get any additional updates that include changes to the networking abilities of the OS.

2. Check the website of the wireless access point manufacturer to see if there are any updates to the access point's firmware. In the case of Apple AirPort base stations, see the AirPort Support page to be sure that you have the latest firmware update for your AirPort product.

3. Be sure you are using the correct WEP or WPA key (password). Most Windows systems are set up without the ability to validate the user-entered password. If you mistyped it, the wireless computer will be using a different key than the wireless network.

4. Some third-party security software may impede traffic between your computer and the base station. Check for firewall or other security software, and make sure you understand how it is configured. Some VPN software may also operate a firewall without your knowledge, even if the VPN application is not actively running.

   Important: Information about products not manufactured by Apple is provided for information purposes only and does not constitute Apple's recommendation or endorsement. Please contact the vendor for additional information.