Technical Tip: Lost FortiAP connection after firmware upgrade

Description

This article explains the loss of connection for FortiAP-321C devices after upgrading the FortiOS firmware on the FortiGate. It addresses lifecycle limitations and compatibility issues affecting the FortiAP-321C with newer FortiOS versions.

Scope

FortiAP-321C devices and FortiGate systems running v7.2.x or later.

Solution

1. Lifecycle Information of the FortiAP-321C: The FortiAP-321C is a legacy model, and its lifecycle status is as follows:

• End of Order (EOO): January 2, 2020.

• Last Service End Date (LSED): January 2, 2024.

• Software End of Support (SW EOS): January 2, 2025.

The FortiAP-321C is no longer actively supported for advanced features or updates, and its firmware is capped at version v6.0.6.

2. Compatibility with FortiOS Versions: According to the FortiAP and FortiOS Compatibility Matrix:

• The FortiAP 321C is compatible with v7.2.x, provided the FortiAP runs v6.0.6. This explains why the AP functioned correctly with the version previously in use (7.2.x).

• However, after upgrading to v7.4.x, legacy models like the FortiAP-321C are no longer supported. v7.4.x requires more recent AP models or firmware versions, which the FortiAP-321C cannot accommodate.

3. Recommendation:

• The only alternative to continue using the FortiAP-321C is to downgrade the FortiGate to v7.2.x to maintain compatibility with the FortiAP-321C.(Note that downgrading FortiOS may affect other features or devices in the network. It is important to evaluate the impact before proceeding).

• Alternatively, consider upgrading to a newer FortiAP model that supports v7.4.x or later. Refer to the FortiAP and FortiOS Compatibility Matrix for a list of supported models and firmware versions: FortiAP-W2.

 
Additional note:
To prevent connectivity issues after upgrades, always verify compatibility between FortiAP models and FortiOS versions using the compatibility matrix before proceeding.

A FortiGate WiFi Controller running FortiOS 8.0.0 no longer supports FortiAP-C series, FortiAP-U E-series, and FortiAP-W2 E-series models. The only E-series models that remain supported are 221E, 223E, 421E, and 423E: FortiGate WiFi controller support with FortiOS 8.0.0.