How to Fix an AP Software mismatch.

[Yarenis]

How to Fix an AP Software mismatch

When adding a new Access Point (AP) to a Ruckus Unleashed network, it is critical that the AP runs the same firmware version as the Master AP. A code mismatch between the new AP and the Master can lead to connectivity issues, including the AP showing as disconnected. This article guides you through identifying and resolving firmware mismatches by upgrading the AP to match the Master AP’s code version. 

Steps to fix the code mismatch:

A)  Access the Unleashed Web GUI:

Open a web browser and navigate to the Unleashed Web GUI by entering the URL:  https://unleashed.ruckuswireless.com
Note: Ensure that your device is connected to the Unleashed network to successfully access the User interface

B) Identify the Disconnected APs:

In the Web GUI, navigate to the Access Points tab. Under the Access points tab, you will be able to see the Disconnected APs, often due to firmware mismatches.

Figure 1: Identifying the disconnected APs

C) Review the Disconnected AP status:

Click on the Disconnected tab to access the list of Access Points that are currently offline or not functioning properly. This section provides details about each disconnected AP. If an AP requires a firmware upgrade to rejoin the network, a warning message will be displayed indicating that an upgrade is necessary. You must perform this upgrade to restore the AP to operational status. 

Figure 2: Review the disconnected AP status

D) Verify Master AP Firmware Version:

Before proceeding with the upgrade, it is essential to verify the firmware version currently running on the Master Access Point (AP). This ensures version consistency across all APs within the Unleashed network, which is critical for proper synchronization and network stability.

To check the Master AP's firmware version:

1. Navigate to Access Points > Working > Master.

2. Click on Show AP Info.

3. Locate and record the displayed firmware version.

This version must match the firmware of any new or disconnected APs being added to or rejoining the network.

Figure 3: Verifying the Master AP version

E)  Upgrade the Disconnected AP:

You have two options for upgrading the AP firmware: Online Upgrade and Local Upgrade.

Option 1: Online Upgrade:

To resolve a firmware mismatch, perform an online upgrade on the affected Access Point (AP) as follows:

1. Navigate to Access Points > Disconnected.

2. Select the AP that is pending an upgrade.

3. Click Upgrade, then choose Online Upgrade.

4. From the list of available firmware versions, locate and select the version that matches the Master AP.

5. Confirm and initiate the upgrade process.

Note: Once the upgrade begins, the AP will automatically download the selected firmware version, reboot, and, upon successful completion, rejoin the network under the Working tab.

Figure 4: Performing Online Upgrade

Figure 5: Performing Online Upgrade

Figure 6: Completing the Online upgrade

Option 2: Local upgrade:

A local upgrade involves using a firmware file that has been previously downloaded from the Ruckus Support Portal. This method is useful when an internet connection is unavailable or when a specific firmware version is required.

A. To perform a local upgrade, you must first download the appropriate firmware file for your RUCKUS Access Point model from the Ruckus Support Portal:

1. Visit the Ruckus Support website at: https://support.ruckuswireless.com

2. Navigate to the Downloads section.

3. Select your product model (e.g., R510, or the specific model in use).

Figure 7: Downloading the Required Version

4. Use the search option to locate the required firmware version (e.g., 200.15.6.12.304).

5. Download the firmware file.

6. If prompted, review and accept the license agreement or terms of use to proceed with the download.

Figure 8: Downloading the Software

Ensure the file is saved to an accessible location on your local system for use during the upgrade process.

B. Once the firmware file has been downloaded to your computer, proceed with the local upgrade as follows:

1. Navigate to Access Points in Unleashed GUI> Disconnected.

2. Select the AP with the pending upgrade.

3. Click Upgrade, then choose Local Upgrade.

4. Click Browse and locate the firmware file you downloaded from the support portal.

Figure 9: Performing Local upgrade

5. Begin the upload; a progress bar will indicate the status.

Figure 10: Uploading the recommended version

6. After the upload completes, click Upgrade to initiate the firmware installation.

7. Once the upgrade progress shows Success 100%, click Reboot.

8. The system will display a Rebuilding the Network progress screen—wait until this process completes

Figure 11: Reboot after the Upgrade

The AP will reboot and rejoin the network once the upgrade is successfully finalized.