How to check if your Mac is in 64-bit boot mode

Problem

This problem only applies to Macs running Mac OS X 10.6 Snow Leopard.

During initial setup, you do not see “802.11n WLAN” or “USB Ethernet” in Network Preferences. The LED on the unit is solid and not blinking. BearExtender’s Wireless Utility also does not recognize the devices and shows “Disconnected !!”

About

Your Mac may be in 64-bit boot mode. By default, all Apple computers ship in 32-bit boot mode except for Mac Pros (desktop computer) and XServes. You may have forced your Mac to boot in 64-bit boot mode in the past by using a program or a special keyboard combination during startup of your Mac.

Forcing 64-bit mode is not recommended by Apple because of the compatibility issue with hardware devices. Most USB devices including BearExtender use 32-bit drivers.

Solution

To check if your Mac is in 64-bit boot mode or 32-bit boot mode, try the following:

1. Go to the Apple Menu > About This Mac
2. Click on “More Info...”
3. In the left side bar, click on “Software”
4. Look for “64-bit Kernel and Extensions:”

If it says “No,” then you are running in 32-bit mode. If you still have problems, please email support@bearextender.com

If it says “Yes,” then you are running in 64-bit mode and need to follow the steps listed here.


If your screen matches this screen shot, then your Mac is compatible with BearExtender.