Apple Airport Extreme and Time Capsule got an update today, at the same time as Apple launched its new Mac Mini, iMac and Mac Pro computers. New features include improved networking and a ‘guest’ network to let buddies hop online without peeping at your private files.
Apple’s AirPort Extreme Wi-Fi hub and Time Capsule now allow simultaneous networking on 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequencies. Apple says it’ll offer improvements in “performance, range and compatibility”.
But the feature that really has us grinning is Guest Network. It allows owners to set up their own computers, as well as a secondary network for visitors to hop online without seeing your networked drives and their contents. It also means you needn’t worry about handing out your Wi-Fi password just so they can check e-mail.
“You can set up this guest network with a different password or with none at all,” Apple explains. “Your primary network — including your printer, attached drives, or other devices — remains secure.”
Dual frequency operation also means devices using the newest N-standard technology will connect quickly, while those using older B/G equipment won’t cause a bottleneck.
Out now | From £139 | Apple
Tags: airport extreme, Apple, guest, N-standard, time capsule, Update, Wi-Fi