Airport Extreme 802.11ac upgrade for 1 gig streaming?

802.11AC question


With 1 gig internet from Spectrum, do I need to replace my 802.11n airport extreme?

TV streaming is sometimes glitchy. Spectrum suggests 802.11AC. Is that likely to make a difference streaming?

iPhone 15, iOS 18

Posted on Dec 15, 2025 1:04 PM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Dec 15, 2025 2:56 PM

802.11n (Wi-Fi 4, 2009) should still be able to deliver ~65 Mbps per Wi-Fi channel, so plenty enough for 4K HDR streaming, which often maxes out at 25 Mbps. Assuming no meaningful obstructions, and not to many other devices consuming bandwidth on the same AirPort at the same time.

Can you do a Wi-Fi speedtest on the exact location of the TV, or maybe even through an app on the TV or TV-connected streaming device?


Newer routers and access points have a much easier time to deliver higher speeds to more devices and other optimizations, as well as increased security. Apple officially discontinued their whole line of AirPort devices in 2018, although their latest model was from 2013. An upgrade would be advised, imho, as your Wi-Fi use will be significantly different from 2009.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Dec 15, 2025 2:56 PM in response to mgoff1

802.11n (Wi-Fi 4, 2009) should still be able to deliver ~65 Mbps per Wi-Fi channel, so plenty enough for 4K HDR streaming, which often maxes out at 25 Mbps. Assuming no meaningful obstructions, and not to many other devices consuming bandwidth on the same AirPort at the same time.

Can you do a Wi-Fi speedtest on the exact location of the TV, or maybe even through an app on the TV or TV-connected streaming device?


Newer routers and access points have a much easier time to deliver higher speeds to more devices and other optimizations, as well as increased security. Apple officially discontinued their whole line of AirPort devices in 2018, although their latest model was from 2013. An upgrade would be advised, imho, as your Wi-Fi use will be significantly different from 2009.

Airport Extreme 802.11ac upgrade for 1 gig streaming?

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