MacOS X: Set up Airport Express correctly

This practical tip shows you how to set up an Airport Express correctly with a Mac. The small router from Apple is a real all-rounder and quite affordable. And it's easy to set up.

Set up Airport Express on MacOS X.

The best way to set up your Airport Express is with the included AirPort utility for MacOS X:

1. Open the AirPort utility and select the Airport Express from the list of available devices. Click on the "Edit" button.
2. If you have already configured the Airport Express, you must enter the assigned password.
3. On the first page with the "Base station" tab, give the Airport Express a name and set a password. You can also configure the "Access to my Mac" function. However, if you only want to set up the router normally, the name and password are sufficient.
4. In the "Internet" tab you configure the network functions of the Airport Express. If the airport should take over the routing to the Internet provider, select the "PPPoE" option under "Connect to:" and enter your access data there. If you are using a Fritzbox or another router, it is best to select "DHCP". You can also assign a static IP address.
5. You configure the WLAN via the "Wireless" tab. You either create a wireless network, connect the airport to an existing one or expand an existing WLAN. If you want to create a network, enter a name for the WLAN and select a security option. In another practical tip, we will give you some tips for secure WLAN encryption.
6. In the "Network" tab, set the other options for your WLAN: If another device, such as a Fritzbox, manages your network, switch the router mode to "Off (bridge mode)". If the Airport Express is to control the network, specify whether it should only offer DHCP or DHCP and NAT. You should only select DHCP and NAT if your Airport Express is directly connected to the Internet provider and no other router is connected in between. If in doubt, use DHCP.
7. Use the "AirPlay" tab to set whether you want to send music from iTunes via the Airport Express to a stereo system or active speakers. You can now transfer music and videos wirelessly from your devices.
8. The USB port on the Airport Express is intended for a printer that can then be used by all devices in the entire network. You configure the connected device via the individual computers like a network printer.
9. Finally, click the "Update" button to save the changes.

You can now use all the features of the Airport Express. If Apple ever publishes a firmware update for your Airport Express, you can also import it using the utility. If the functions are not enough for you, we will show you the differences between the Airport Extreme and Express in another practical tip.