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Cisco AP DTLS Authentication Issues

Field Notice: FN72524 - During Software Upgrade/Downgrade, Cisco IOS APs Might Remain in Downloading State After December 4, 2022 Due to Certificate Expiration - Software Upgrade Recommended - Cisco

There is a known issue with a hardware cert found on several Cisco WLC. Due to lack of service contract, we are unable to update the firmware. 

The following workaround is required if an AP loses its connection to a WLC. 

  1. show time 
    Gets you the NTP server list 

    image.png


  2. Disable NTP Authentication on the WLC. 
    config time ntp auth disable
     X
    (insert ntp server(s))

  3. manually adjust time to pre Dec 4 2022 but after 4 November
    config time manual 12/01/22 hh:m:ss

  4. Save config on WLC and restart AP's.

    THEThe AP's should reach out and try to download certs and match the time. AP's get their time form the WLC.

It will be downloading for at least 5-10 minutes as the cert is installed on the AP from the WLC. During this time its IP address will show 0.0.0.0

You can monitor the download via a serial cable in the AP or you can see the status on the wlc. If it is on its cert failure loop it will be stuck "Downloading".

REG means connected. 

image.png



  1. Once connected you can reenabled NTP auth and change the time back