Technical Tip: FortiAP K-series cannot be authorized after upgrading FortiGate to a compatible FortiOS version

Description

This article describes how to resolve a FortiAP K-series authorization failure after upgrading FortiGate to a compatible FortiOS version.

Scope

FortiAP K-Series, FortiGate.

Solution

FortiGate requires a FortiAP profile with a platform that matches the actual FortiAP model. If FortiGate runs a FortiOS version that does not support a K-series FortiAP model, FortiGate may create or assign a profile with an incorrect platform.

After upgrading FortiGate to a FortiOS version that supports the K-series FortiAP, FortiGate may still attempt to authorize the device by using the previously assigned profile. If the profile platform does not match the actual FortiAP platform, FortiGate cannot complete the authorization process.

This mismatch triggers the authorization error and prevents the FortiAP from reaching Online status.

The graphical user interface may display, 'The following devices could not be authorized.'.

Verify the platform configured in the assigned FortiAP profile. If the profile contains the wrong platform, remove that profile and create a new FortiAP profile with the correct platform for the FortiAP model.

1. Go to WiFi & Switch Controller -> FortiAP Profiles.

2. Locate the FortiAP profile assigned to the affected FortiAP.

3. Verify the platform configured in that profile.

4. Delete the profile if the platform does not match the actual FortiAP model.

5. Create a new FortiAP profile.

6. Select the correct platform for the FortiAP model.

7. Assign the new profile to the FortiAP.

8. Authorize the FortiAP again.

After assigning a FortiAP profile with the correct platform, FortiGate can authorize the FortiAP successfully, and the FortiAP changes to Online status.

Summary.
FortiGate cannot authorize a K-series FortiAP if the assigned FortiAP profile contains the wrong platform. This condition may occur when FortiGate first detects the FortiAP while running an unsupported FortiOS version. Delete the incorrect profile, create a new profile with the correct platform, and authorize the FortiAP again.