Confused about firmware update

[john_3572308]

Hi

Apologies for the basic question. I have looked for an answer before posting...

I have just set-up a Ruckus r700 and as per usual with all new products, I checked for updates, of course reading the release notes before upgrading.

The current AP 'software' listed on the AP is version: 9.8.0.0.203

I noticed on the Ruckus site that the latest 'firmware' version is listed as R700 Firmware 9.8.0.0.203 (r700_9.8.0.0.203.Bl7). Which is the same as the 'software' version on the AP.

However, on the Ruckus support site there's a download available called 'Standalone AP Software 9.8.1.0.101 (All APs)' and inside that download a file called 'R700_9.8.1.0.101.BL7'

I'm confused?

Q1: Is it just the Ruckus terminology / wording that is confusing?
Q2: Is the file 'R700_9.8.1.0.101.BL7' actually the latest firmware version for the R700?
Q3: If it is the latest firmware, can I upgrade to it using the local update option on the AP?
Q4: Are there any release notes anywhere?
Q5: The Auto F/W upgrade on the AP is enabled, but the FW Control Control File is fixed as 'r700_980_cntrl.rcks' Is it right that its fixed?

Sorry for the amount of questions. Its just that the wording is confusing to me and I think its important to make such things clear so as to avoid any costly mistakes.

Thanks

[cordelia_cordel]

I like questions I can answer!

A1: Apologies that this is somewhat confusing, we're working on it!
A2: Yes, that's the latest firmware version.
A3: Yes, you can upgrade to it using the local update option on the AP.
A4: Yes, here they are: https://support.ruckuswireless.com/do...
A5: That's a technical question I'm not sure of. Perhaps our main moderator, Michael Brado, can help answer that.

[michael_brado]

Regarding Firmware upgrade to your standalone AP, when on the Maintenance::Upgrade page, once you click "Local" as your Upgrade Method, the fields will change to a browse file selection. This is the simplest way to upgrade standalone APs.

You should manually upgrade your AP firmware, as the "auto-upgrade" server designed for EoL MediaFlex and MetroFlex product APs may no longer be in service. You can create a custom r700_XXX_cntrl.rcks control files if you wish to
use a local FTP/TFTP server, and update the file with each incremental firmware
upgrade released.

[john_3572308]

Brilliant. Thanks guys for your swift and detailed response.

I performed a successful step upgrade:

r700_9.8.0.0.373.BL7

then

R700_9.8.1.0.101.BL7