Extreme Base Station suddenly dropping internet connection

Question

I have an Extreme Base Station (802.11n Fast Ethernet) which has been providing wireless internet and printing to two imacs pretty flawlessly for several years. It seems to be a fairly simple network. DSL modem (to WAN port) and USB printer cable plugged into back of Base Station.
Several days ago, the Base Station began dropping connection to the internet every few minutes. If I connect the modem directly into the computer, I have no problems with losing connection. So, I began looking for solutions online and have been trying everything I could find to do. I've scoured the forums here, and everywhere and read a bazillion posts.
I've done a hard reset of the Base Station, I've tried different channels, I've unplugged, waited ten minutes, and replugged in a myriad of sequences, including unplugging both the modem (Zhone/Paradyne 6381-A3) and Base Station overnight. The only thing I haven't done is roll back the firmware (currently 7.4.2 I believe). I'm still experiencing the same problems and am at my wits end. I've spent hours now trying to fix it and need to do other things like shop for groceries and vacuum! So, I'm posting, in hopes someone might be able to point me in a more productive direction.
Is it possible the Base Station hardware is failing? What are the signs and symptoms? I hate to spend another $179 and still have the same problems.
Thank you.
Most kindly,
---Susan

Answer 1

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Dear Bluenova - ( +or other interested readers+ )
I know that this reply is two months since this topic was initially posted.
This is a longstanding Airport Extreme ( AEBS ) problem that's been noted since 2006-2007.
It has been an ongoing issue for me -AND- I continue to experience it even after recently upgrading my AEBS.
I finally called AppleCare in mid-Sept. and opened a formal problem case report.
As of today (Oct 15, 2010) I still have an open & unresolved case with AppleCare.
The problem has been escalated twice -and- is now referred to Engineering Dept for research & resolution.
I was curious what steps or actions you have taken -and/or- if you still experience the problem.
_Readers Please Note_
Many users have posted messages regarding problems with Airport Extreme *+DROPPING CONNECTIONS+* .
However, with careful reading, it becomes obvious that many forum posters are not sufficiently clear
-and- often confuse or do NOT make the distinction between ..... DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONNECTION PROBLEMS.
. ( wifi/network connection probs - vs - internet connection probs )
SEE HELPFUL POST BY WILLIAM KARCHINSKI
Topic : *+Having issues with your AirPort connection? Please be specific+*
http://discussions.apple.com/thread.jspa?threadID=2227197
FWI
If you suspect that you are having the *dropped internet connection* type problem,
YOU CAN CHECK & WATCH IT HAPPENING IN THIS MANNER
Set Airport in Menubar to *"SHOW TIME CONNECTED"*
. *- +and also+ -*
Open Airport Utility --> AIRPORT --> SUMMARY window
.... and leave it visible somewhere on your screen while you web browse.
Now, once the internet connection drops or is lost ...
... in the Airport Utility Summary window - you will see the loss of the assigned IP Address
. *- and -*
.... in the Menubar - the time connected will reset to 00:00:00
If you have a new or ongoing problem that relates specifically to ....
.... Airport Extreme – dropping or losing *Internet Connections* ... ( +not wifi connection type probs+ )
.... please let me know.
I would like to be able to correspond directly with others via email to share info
(such as what modems, ISP's, time of day or conditions with which this problem has been found to occur)
I will then be glad to pass that info on to AppleCare in trying to find a cause (and solution) for this problem.
If this issue was treated collectively maybe AppleCare would address it with more resolve & urgency.
I'll check back with this thread for replies from other interested users.
.