Troubleshooting Tip: Cannot manage K model FortiAPs from FortiGate v7.2 or earlier

[dbhavsar]

Description	This article describes the expected limitation that FortiOS 7.4.4 or later is required to manage a K-series FortiAP.
Scope	v7.4.4 or above.
Solution	When a K-series FortiAP model, such as FortiAP-243K, is first connected to the network, it will not be visible under WiFi Controller -> Managed FortiAPs if the FortiGate is running v7.2 or certain early v7.4 versions. This is expected behavior. This is also applicable when adding a new K model FortiAP and the FortiOS firmware is below v7.4.4. When trying to add a new Managed FortiAP under WiFi Controller -> Managed FortiAPs -> Create New. When entering the serial number for a K-series FortiAP, the following error may be encountered: As a first step, upgrade the firewall to v7.4.4 or above, which includes the Add profile support for Wi-Fi 7 on FortiAP K-series models 7.4.4. It is strongly recommended to upgrade to the latest v7.4. Afterwards, the default profile will be usable for K-series FortiAPs, and they will be added as Unauthorized APs under WiFi Controller -> Managed FortiAPs if FortiGate can detect them. If the AP is still not visible, see this document: Discovering, authorizing, and deauthorizing FortiAP units. Note: Some FortiAP K-series models were manageable by v7.4.2 and v7.4.3, but these firewall versions do not support WiFi 7. It is strongly recommended to upgrade the firewall to the latest v7.4. For an overview of FortiOS-FortiAP compatibility, including which firmware versions are compatible, see FortiAP and FortiOS Compatibility Matrix. Related documents: Technical Tip: FortiAP-441K and FortiAP-443K support with FortiGate Advanced WiFi controller discovery