Setting up the AirPort Express is a snap. Just plug it in to a power outlet, then connect up your broadband modem (or Ethernet hub), USB printer, and stereo (if using the printer sharing or AirTunes features).

While it plugs into any power strip or wall plug (no grounding is needed), we recommend using the power cord extension that comes with Apple's Stereo Connection Kit so you can get the unit off the floor and into a better location that maximizes your range. Experiment with different locations after you've gotten things connected to find the best for your house.

If you are connecting to your stereo with the Connection Kit, you'll want to use the digital TOSLINK cable if your receiver/amp has this input, since it will deliver the best quality; otherwise use the analog audio cable.

After you have attached all cables, it's time to install and configure the software. We are skipping the first portion of the process, which installs iTunes 4 with AirTunes (and QuickTime if you don't already have it), and focusing on configuring the AirPort Express itself.

Set Up a New AirPort Express

The simplest way to set up the AirPort Express is via the AirPort Express Assistant, which guides you step by step through the process. You'll need a Wi-Fi-equipped Mac or PC onto which you've installed the software CD. (You can also set up the AirPort Express using a wired connection and the AirPort Admin Utility, which doesn't walk you through the process, but since you can only stream iTunes from a Wi-Fi machine, we won't go into that here.)

The AirPort Express Assistant is a software application that can be used to set up a new AirPort Express or change settings on a unit that's been previously configured.

Find Your AirPort Express on Your Network

On the next screen, you'll select your new AirPort Express from a list of available wireless routers and access points within radio range of your computer.

Name your Router

The AirPort Express allows you to set both a wireless network name, commonly called an SSID, as well as a name to be used for AirTunes media streaming. If you plan to use more than one AirPort Express in your home, we suggest setting the AirPort Express name to something that describes where the unit will be located, i.e. "kitchen," "living room," etc.

Configure Security

The next screen allows you to select the type of security you'd like to have on your wireless network. Note that WPA encrypts your router's MAC address, which must be unencrypted for use with WDS. If you plan to use more than one AirPort Express (or AirPort Extreme) in a WDS setup, choose 128-bit WEP encryption or no encryption.

How will You Use AirPort Express?

Select how your AirPort Express will be connected to the Internet. You can choose from a standard DSL or cable modem connection, a LAN connection, or no Internet connection at all -- the last option is ideal if you want to use your AirPort Express to stream music via AirTunes, but want to use another access point for your Wi-Fi connection. But note that if you are running multiple Wi-Fi networks, you should make sure to use different channels as far apart as possible to minimize interference. The default channel is 6, we recommend using channels 1 and 11 for two separate networks in one location. Channels can be changed using the AirPort Admin Utility after you've completed basic setup with the Assistant.

Lock Down Your AirPort Express

Very important: You'll want to protect the settings of your AirPort Express with a password that's not easily deciphered. This will prevent neighbors who have AirPort configuration software from changing your AirPort Express' settings.

Confirm Settings and You're Done!

This last screen summarizes your AirPort Express' configuration settings. If everything looks right, click "Next" to transmit the settings and restart your AirPort Express. Your AirPort Express is now ready for use.