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AP Mode Switching - Overview, Configuration Examples, and Troubleshooting
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AP Mode Switching - Overview, Examples, and Troubleshooting

AP Mode Switching - Overview, Examples, and Troubleshooting

Introduction

This document describes AP modes and APs supporting mode switching, and provides detailed mode switching examples and troubleshooting measures.

Understanding Modes Supported by APs

APs can work in Fat, Fit, or cloud mode. By default, an AP works in Fit mode. (The AP9130DN supports only the Fat mode, while the AP5030DN-C supports only the cloud mode.)

Table 1-1 AP mode description

AP Mode

Description

Application Scenario

Fat

A Fat AP can provide Wi-Fi coverage independently without the need of an additional management and control device. Since Fat APs work independently, each Fat AP must be separately configured. Deploying multiple Fat APs to provide Wi-Fi coverage in a large area leads to high configuration and maintenance costs. In addition, STAs cannot roam between Fat APs because the Fat APs control network access independently.

Therefore, Fat APs are usually deployed to provide small-scale Wi-Fi coverage in household or SOHO environments. In enterprise scenarios, the "AC + Fit AP" and "cloud management platform + cloud AP" networking modes are typically used.

Small-scale Wi-Fi coverage scenarios, such as household or SOHO environments

Fit

Fit APs cannot provide Wi-Fi coverage independently. They must work with an AC. The AC manages and controls all connected Fit APs. The AC delivers configurations to Fit APs in batches. Therefore, you do not need to configure Fit APs one by one. This greatly reduces WLAN management and maintenance costs. In addition, STAs can roam between Fit APs because user access authentication is managed by the AC in a unified manner. The "AC + Fit AP" networking mode is widely used for Wi-Fi network deployment in medium- and large-sized campuses, such as shopping malls, supermarkets, hotels, and enterprise offices.

In small Wi-Fi coverage scenarios, a small number of APs are required. If an additional AC is deployed, the cost of the entire wireless network is high. In such a scenario, Fat APs are recommended if wireless roaming is not required. If wireless roaming is required, cloud APs are recommended.

Medium- and large-sized campuses, such as shopping malls, supermarkets, hotels, and enterprise offices

Cloud

Cloud APs can be managed by the cloud management platform. Cloud APs provide similar functions as Fat APs, and can be deployed to build small networks in household or SOHO environments. The "cloud management platform + cloud AP" networking mode is similar to the "AC + Fit AP" mode. Cloud APs are managed and controlled by the cloud management platform in a unified manner. Therefore, cloud APs can be applied to large- and medium-sized networks.

Cloud APs support plug-and-play and are easy to deploy. They can be flexibly expanded out of space restrictions. Therefore, cloud APs are widely used in multi-branch scenarios.

Wireless network scenarios of various scales, such as retail, small- and medium-sized enterprises, and hotels

Understanding APs Support Mode Switching

If an AP supports multiple modes, the AP supports mode switching. Most Huawei APs can switch between different modes. Only a few APs support only one mode, and therefore do not support mode switching. An AP may support different modes in different versions. For example, an AP may not support the cloud mode in V200R007C20 but support the cloud mode in V200R007C10 and V200R008.

To find out modes supported by a specified AP model or versions supported by a specified AP mode, refer to Quick Reference for WLAN AP Version Mapping and Models.

After downloading the table, filter out the specified AP model in AP Model. The following uses the AP4050DN as an example.

It is found that the AP4050DN can work in Fit or Fat mode starting from V200R007C20, and has also supported the cloud mode since V200R008C00.

How to Check the Current Working Mode of an AP

There are three methods for checking the current working mode of an AP:

  • Search for Wi-Fi signals on a mobile terminal (for example, a mobile phone). This method is applicable to the scenario where the AP is in factory defaults or offline state.

    Enable Wi-Fi on the mobile phone and search for Wi-Fi signals around the AP. Determine the AP's working mode according to the SSID format.

    If the SSID is in the format of HUAWEI-XXXX or HUAWEI-LeaderAP-XXXX, the AP is working in Fat mode. If the SSID format is hw-manage-xxxx, the AP is working in Fit or cloud mode. The SSID format is the same for APs in Fit and cloud modes. You can connect the mobile phone to the Wi-Fi network. If the mobile phone is directly connected to the Wi-Fi network, the AP is working in cloud mode. Otherwise, the AP is working in Fit mode.

    An AP can transmit Wi-Fi signals in the following conditions:

    • Fit mode: From V200R009, an AP in factory defaults or offline state transmits signals of the Wi-Fi network with the SSID hw-manage-xxxx. xxxx indicates the last 4 digits of the AP's MAC address. Note that the mobile phone cannot directly access this Wi-Fi network. You must configure a static IP address on the same network segment as the AP's default IP address (169.254.2.1) for the mobile phone, for example, 169.254.2.100.
      • Versions earlier than V200R007C10: Fit APs do not support the offline management VAP.
      • From V200R007C10 to V200R008C10, the offline management VAP is enabled by default after a Fit AP is powered on, allowing for wireless connections. After the AP goes online on an AC, the offline management VAP is disabled and will not be enabled when the AP goes offline.
      • V200R009 and later versions: The offline management VAP is enabled by default after a Fit AP is powered on. The offline management VAP is automatically enabled even if the Fit AP goes offline.
    • Fat mode: From V200R007C20, an AP in factory defaults transmits signals of the Wi-Fi network with the SSID HUAWEI-XXXX, which allows for direct access of mobile phones. XXXX indicates the last 4 digits of the AP's MAC address. Enter http://192.168.1.1 in the browser. The login page of the web platform is displayed. For the sake of security, it is recommended that you delete the default SSID during AP configuration.
    • Cloud mode: An AP in factory defaults or offline state transmits signals of the Wi-Fi network with the SSID hw-manage-xxxx, which allows for direct access of mobile phones. xxxx indicates the last 4 digits of the AP's MAC address.

    Check the MAC address of an AP on the nameplate at the bottom of the AP.

    If the AP has been installed, move the mobile phone as close to the AP as possible. Typically, the SSID with the strongest signal strength is the SSID of the AP.

    This mode eliminates the need of an Ethernet cable but is not applicable to any scenario. APs only in the specified state and version can transmit Wi-Fi signals. This method allows you to determine the working mode of the AP whose state and version you are not sure of. If the working mode of the AP cannot be determined, connect a PC to the AP using an Ethernet cable.

    If no Wi-Fi signal of the specified SSID is found, connect a PC to the AP and log in to the AP.

  • Log in to the AP and check its working mode using the CLI. Connect a PC to the AP using an Ethernet cable. Enter identity information and log in to the AP. The working mode of the AP is automatically displayed.

    Connect a PC to the AP. Configure the IP address for the PC to locate on the same network segment as the AP. For the connection mode, see Figure 1-1.

    Figure 1-1 AP-PC connection diagram

    On the PC, log in to the AP using an SSH client. The working mode of the AP is displayed upon successful login.

    Info: Current mode: Fit (managed by the AC).
  • Log in to the AP and check its working mode on the web platform. Connect a PC to the AP using an Ethernet cable. Enter the AP's IP address in the browser. The AP's working mode is automatically displayed on the login page.

    Connect a PC to the AP. Configure the IP address for the PC to locate on the same network segment as the AP. For the connection mode, see Figure 1-1.

    Open the browser on the PC and enter the http://IP address. The default IP address of an AP is 169.254.1.1 (the default IP address of an RU is 169.254.1.2). The current working mode of the AP is displayed. For details about cable connections, see AP Mode Switching Examples.

    • Fit mode: Fit is displayed.

    • Fat mode: Access Point is displayed on the login page.

    • Cloud mode: Cloud Access Point is displayed on the login page.

How to Switch the Working Mode of an AP

In V200R019C00 and earlier versions, the requirements for AP mode switching are as follows:
  • Switching between the Fat and cloud modes

    You can directly switch an AP that uses the same system software between the Fat and cloud modes in any circumstance.

  • Switching between the Fit and Fat modes or between the Fit and cloud modes
    • Some APs support one software package for both the Fat and cloud modes, for example, 802.11ac Wave 2 APs. The working mode of such APs can be directly switched before delivery. If an AP has been upgraded, switched the mode, or been online on an AC, configure the FTP server and download the corresponding software package to switch the working mode of the AP.

      These APs include 802.11ac Wave 2 APs, AP7060DN, AirEngine 5760-10, SOHO series APs, as well as the AP8030DN, AP8130DN, AD9430DN-12, and AD9430DN-24 in V200R007 and later versions.

    • Some APs support one software package for only one working mode, for example, 802.11n APs and some 802.11ac APs. To switch the working mode of such APs, configure the FTP server and download the corresponding software package.

      These APs include 802.11n APs, AP3010DN-V2, AP3030DN, AP4030DN, AP4030DN-E, AP4130DN, AP5030DN, AP5030DN-S, AP5130DN, AP9131DN, AP9132DN, as well as the AP8030DN, AP8130DN, AD9430DN-12, and AD9430DN-24 in V200R006 and earlier versions.

In V200R019C10 and later versions, APs support one software package for the Fat, Fit, and cloud modes. Therefore, the working mode of such APs can be directly switched Fat, Fit, and cloud modes. This is supported by AirEngine series APs (except RUs) and SOHO series APs.

Table 1-2 Recommended method for switching the working mode of an AP

From...

To...

Switching Description

Fit

Fat

When an AP is online, switch its mode on the AP upgrade page on the web platform of the AC. (Example for Switching an Online Fit AP to the Fat Mode Through the AC)

When an AP is offline, log in to the AP and switch its working mode using the CLI. (Example for Switching a Fit AP with Factory Defaults to the Fat Mode by One Click)

Cloud

When an AP is online, switch its mode on the AP upgrade page on the web platform of the AC.

When an AP is offline, log in to the AP and switch its working mode using the CLI. If the AP is in factory defaults, its working mode can be automatically switched after you configure the cloud management platform and DHCP server. Alternatively, use the CloudCampus APP to connect to the AP for manual switching.

Fat

Fit

On the System Upgrade page of the web platform, specify the backup startup system software, upload the Fit software package as the backup, and specify the Fit AP mode on the Device Restart page.

Cloud

Specify the cloud mode on the Device Restart page of the web platform.

Cloud

Fit

Log in to the AP and switch its working mode using the CLI.

FAT

Log in to the AP and switch its working mode using the CLI.

AP Mode Switching Examples

Example for Switching the AP Working Mode by One Click

Applicable Scope

This example applies to Fat, Fit, or cloud APs that use the same system software package.

Applicable version: V200R019C10 or later

Applicable model: all AP models except RUs

Networking Scenario

To use a new AP to independently provide Wi-Fi coverage, you need to switch the AP to the Fat mode and deploy services through the web platform or other way.

Connect the AP to a PC through an Ethernet cable in a proper mode, as shown in Figure 1-2.

If the AP supports DC power supply and works with a power adapter, connect the AP to a PC directly through an Ethernet cable. If the AP does not support DC power supply or no adapter is available, supply PoE power to the AP. In this case, connect the AP to the PC through a PoE device.

Figure 1-2 AP-PC connection diagram

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Configure the IP address of the PC and STelnet client, check network connectivity between the AP and PC, and observe indicator states.

2

Check AP information: On the PC, log in to the AP through STelnet to check the version and working mode of the AP.

3

Start the switching: Run the ap-mode-switch fat command in the system view to switch the working mode of the AP. The AP then restarts.

4

Verify the switching: Log in to the AP again and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure on the CLI

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 10

    STelnet client: PuTTY (third-party software)

    AP

    Model: AirEngine 6760R-51

    Version: V200R019C10SPC300

    Default information:

    • IP address: 169.254.1.1
    • STelnet login port number: 22
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Power on the AP. The indicator is green for around 2 minutes during the startup. When the indicator blinks, the AP is started successfully.

    # Set the IP address of the PC to 169.254.1.100 and mask to 255.255.0.0 so that the PC and AP are located on the same network segment.

  2. Check AP information.

    # Open PuTTY on the PC, enter the IP address and port number of the AP, select the SSH mode, and click Open. If a key pair information prompt is displayed, click Yes.

    # When the following information is displayed, the AP is connected successfully. Enter the user name and password to log in to the AP.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:       //For information security, characters you entered are invisible.

Info: Current mode: Fit (managed by the AC).  //The current mode is Fit.
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei>

    # Check AP information.

    <Huawei> display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AirEngine6760R-51 FIT V200R019C10SPC300)  //Model, working mode, and version
...

  3. Start the switching.

    # Switch the AP mode to Fat. Wait until the AP restart is complete. The AP restart takes around 2 minutes.

    <Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] ap-mode-switch fat
Warning: The system will reboot and start in fat mode of V200R019C10SPC300. Continue? (y/n)[n]:y
Info: system is rebooting ,please wait.................

  4. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AirEngine6760R-51 FAT V200R019C10SPC300)
...

Configuration Procedure on the Web System

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 10

    Browser: Google Chrome

    IP address: 169.254.1.100

    AP

    Model: AirEngine 6760R-51

    Version: V200R019C10SPC300

    Default information:

    • IP address: 169.254.1.1
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Power on the AP. The indicator is green for around 2 minutes during the startup. When the indicator blinks, the AP is started successfully.

    # Set the IP address of the PC to 169.254.1.100 and mask to 255.255.0.0 so that the PC and AP are located on the same network segment.

  2. Start the switching.

    # Enter the IP address of the AP in the browser of the PC. Enter the user name and password to log in to the web platform. If a security connection prompt is displayed, continue with the operation.

    # Choose Monitoring > Summary. The Summary page is displayed.

    # Set Working mode to FAT or Cloud, and click Apply. The working mode of the AP is switched to Fat or cloud.

    # In the dialog box that is displayed, click OK. The AP automatically restarts and starts to switch the mode.

  3. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP again to view AP information on the web system. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    To switch back to the Fit mode, select Fit Mode in the upper right corner of the web page.

Example for Switching a Fit AP with Factory Defaults to the Fat Mode by One Click

Applicable Scope

This example is applicable to APs with factory defaults. APs work in Fit mode by default.

With factory defaults, the local configuration of an AP is not modified, and the AP has not obtained the new configuration from an AC. If an AP has been upgraded, has been connected to an AC, or its working mode has been switched, the AP's working mode cannot be directly switched.

Applicable version: V200R007 and later versions

Applicable models:

AP Series

AP Model

AP1000

AP1050DN-S

AP2000

AP2050DN, AP2050DN-E, AP2050DN-S, AP2051DN, AP2051DN-E, AP2051DN-L-S, and AP2051DN-S

AP3000

AP3050DE

AP4000

AP4050DE-B-S, AP4050DE-M, AP4050DE-M-S, AP4050DN, AP4050DN-E, AP4050DN-HD, AP4050DN-S, AP4051DN, AP4051TN, and AP4151DN

AP5000

AP5050DN-S

AP6000

AP6050DN, AP6052DN, AP6150DN, and AP6750-10T

AP7000

AP7050DE, AP7050DN-E, AP7052DE, AP7052DN, AP7060DN, and AP7152DN

AP8000

AP8030DN, AP8050DN, AP8050DN-S, AP8050TN-HD, AP8082DN, AP8130DN, AP8150DN, and AP8182DN

AP9000

AP9131DN and AP9132DN

AD9000

AD9430DN-12, AD9430DN-24, and AD9431DN-24X

AirEngine series

All AirEngine series APs (excluding RUs)

SOHO series (Wi-Fi 5)

AP210, AP230, AP310, AP330, and AP350

SOHO series (Wi-Fi 6)

AP163, AP165, AP263, AP363, and AP365

For other models, see Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using FTP.

Networking Scenario

To use a new AP to independently provide Wi-Fi coverage, you need to switch the AP to the Fat mode and deploy services through the web platform or other way.

Connect the AP to a PC through an Ethernet cable in a proper mode, as shown in Figure 1-3.

If the AP supports DC power supply and works with a power adapter, connect the AP to a PC directly through an Ethernet cable. If the AP does not support DC power supply or no adapter is available, supply PoE power to the AP. In this case, connect the AP to the PC through a PoE device.

Figure 1-3 AP-PC connection diagram

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Configure the IP address of the PC and STelnet client, check network connectivity between the AP and PC, and observe indicator states.

2

Check AP information: On the PC, log in to the AP through STelnet to check the version and working mode of the AP.

3

Start the switching: Run the ap-mode-switch fat command in the system view to switch the working mode of the AP. The AP then restarts.

4

Verify the switching: Log in to the AP again and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 7

    STelnet client: PuTTY (third-party software)

    AP

    Model: AP4050DN

    Version: V200R007C20

    Default information:

    • IP address: 169.254.1.1
    • STelnet login port number: 22
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Power on the AP. The indicator is green for around 2 minutes during the startup. When the indicator blinks, the AP is started successfully.

    # Set the IP address of the PC to 169.254.1.100 and mask to 255.255.0.0 so that the PC and AP are located on the same network segment.

  2. Check AP information.

    # Open PuTTY on the PC, enter the IP address and port number of the AP, select the SSH mode, and click Open. If a key pair information prompt is displayed, click Yes.

    # When the following information is displayed, the AP is connected successfully. Enter the user name and password to log in to the AP.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:    //For information security, characters you entered are invisible.

Info: Current mode: Fit (managed by the AC).  //The current mode is Fit.
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei>

    # Check AP information.

    <Huawei> display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP4050DN FIT V200R007C20SPCa00)  //Model, working mode, and version
...

  3. Start the switching.

    # Switch the AP mode to Fat. Wait until the AP restart is complete. The AP restarts, which takes around 2 minutes.

    <Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] ap-mode-switch fat
Warning: The system will reboot and start in fat mode of V200R007C20SPCa00. Continue? (y/n)[n]:y
Info: system is rebooting ,please wait.................

  4. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password: 

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP4050DN FAT V200R007C20SPCa00)
...

FAQs

An error message is displayed when you run a mode switching command.

[Huawei] ap-mode-switch fat
Error: The fat mode does not exist. To switch to the fat AP mode, run the ap-mode-switch fat tftp/ftp/sftp command.

The AP is not in factory defaults and therefore cannot be switched to the Fat mode by one click. In this case, switch the working mode of the AP using SFTP. For details, see Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using SFTP.

Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using SFTP

Applicable Scope

Applicable version: V200R007 and later versions

Applicable models:

AP Series

AP Model

AP1000

AP1050DN-S

AP2000

AP2050DN, AP2050DN-E, AP2050DN-S, AP2051DN, AP2051DN-E, AP2051DN-L-S, and AP2051DN-S

AP3000

AP3050DE

AP4000

AP4050DE-B-S, AP4050DE-M, AP4050DE-M-S, AP4050DN, AP4050DN-E, AP4050DN-HD, AP4050DN-S, AP4051DN, AP4051TN, and AP4151DN

AP5000

AP5050DN-S

AP6000

AP6050DN, AP6052DN, and AP6150DN

AP7000

AP7050DE, AP7050DN-E, AP7052DE, AP7052DN, AP7060DN, and AP7152DN

AP8000

AP8030DN, AP8050DN, AP8050DN-S, AP8050TN-HD, AP8082DN, AP8130DN, AP8150DN, and AP8182DN

AD9000

AD9430DN-12, AD9430DN-24, and AD9431DN-24X

AirEngine series

All AirEngine series APs (excluding RUs)

SOHO series (Wi-Fi 5)

AP210, AP230, AP310, AP330, and AP350

SOHO series (Wi-Fi 6)

AP163, AP165, AP263, AP363, and AP365

For APs in factory defaults, it is recommended that you switch the working mode of an AP by referring to Example for Switching a Fit AP with Factory Defaults to the Fat Mode by One Click.

For other models, see Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using FTP.

This example is also applicable to switching a Fit AP to the Fat mode using FTP or TFTP. Note the following differences:

  • Configure the FTP or TFTP server software on the PC, which is not mentioned here.
  • Different parameters are used in the command for switching the AP mode and are described in the procedure.

Networking Scenario

To use a new AP to independently provide Wi-Fi coverage, you need to switch the AP to the Fat mode and deploy services through the web platform or other way.

Connect the AP to a PC through an Ethernet cable in a proper mode, as shown in Figure 1-4.

If the AP supports DC power supply and works with a power adapter, connect the AP to a PC directly through an Ethernet cable. If the AP does not support DC power supply or no adapter is available, supply PoE power to the AP. In this case, connect the AP to the PC through a PoE device.

When the PC serves as an SFTP server, prepare the Fat AP software package for the AP to obtain through SFTP.

Figure 1-4 AP-PC connection diagram

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Configure the IP address, STelnet client, and SFTP server software on the PC. Download the Fat AP software package of the target version to the SFTP server. Check network connectivity and the indicator states of the AP.

2

Check AP information: On the PC, log in to the AP through STelnet to check the version and working mode of the AP.

3

Start the switching: Run the ap-mode-switch fat sftp filename server-ip-address user-name password [ port ] command in the system view. The AP restarts.

If FTP or TFTP is used, run the following command:

  • FTP mode: ap-mode-switch fat ftp filename server-ip-address user-name password [ port ]
  • TFTP mode: ap-mode-switch fat tftp filename server-ip-address
NOTE:

For the support for FTP, SFTP, and TFTP modes by different models and versions, see the Fit AP Command Reference. Select a proper mode as required.

4

Verify the switching: Log in to the AP again and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 7

    STelnet client: PuTTY (third-party software)

    SFTP server software

    AP

    Model: AP4050DN

    Version: V200R007C20

    Default information:

    • IP address: 169.254.1.1
    • STelnet login port number: 22
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Power on the AP. The indicator is on for around 2 minutes during the startup. When the indicator blinks, the AP is started successfully.

    # Log in to Huawei enterprise technical support website (support.huawei.com/e), download the Fat AP software package, and store the package on the PC.

    # Set the IP address of the PC to 169.254.1.100 and mask to 255.255.0.0 so that the PC and AP are located on the same network segment.

    # Open the SFTP software on the PC, and set SFTP server parameters:

    • Set the IP address and port number for the client to access the server.
    • Set the authentication mode so that the password is required for the client to access the server.
    • Select a local directory to provide file services for the client. Store the downloaded software package in this directory.
    • Add a user to verify identity information entered by the client to ensure access security.
    • Enable the SFTP service.

  2. Check AP information.

    # Open PuTTY on the PC, enter the IP address and port number of the AP, select the SSH mode, and click Open. If a key pair information prompt is displayed, click Yes.

    # When the following information is displayed, the AP is connected successfully. Enter the user name and password to log in to the AP.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:    //For information security, characters you entered are invisible.

Info: Current mode: Fit (managed by the AC).  //The current mode is Fit.
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei>

    # Check AP information.

    <Huawei> display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP4050DN FIT V200R007C20SPCa00)  //Model, working mode, and version
...

  3. Start the switching.

    # Enable the first-time authentication function on the AP working as an SSH client.

    <Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] ssh client first-time enable

    # Switch the AP mode to Fat. Set the file name (including the extension) of the target software package, IP address, user name, and password of the SFTP server. The AP will restart and the restart takes around 2 minutes.

    [Huawei] ap-mode-switch fat sftp Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100 huawei huawei123
Warning: The system will reboot and start in fat mode of V200R007C20SPCa00. Continue? (y/n)[n]:y
Warning: Do Not Power-off!
..........................................................................................................
End of file......

Info: system is rebooting ,please wait...

    If FTP or TFTP is used, specify the following parameters in the switching command (as an example):

    • FTP mode: ap-mode-switch fat ftp Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100 huawei huawei123
    • TFTP mode: ap-mode-switch fat tftp Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100
    • In V200R019C10 and later versions, the file name extension of the AP software package is changed from .bin to .cc.

  4. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password: 

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP4050DN FAT V200R007C20SPCa00)
...

FAQ

An error message is displayed when you run a mode switching command.

[Huawei] ap-mode-switch fat sftp Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100 huawei huawei@123
Warning: The system will reboot and start in fat mode of V200R007C20SPCa00. Continue? (y/n)[n]:y
Warning: Do Not Power-off!
.
Error: Upgrade failed due to a failure in downloading the version file.

The public key for the SSH server is not configured on the AP. When the AP accesses the SSH server for the first time, authentication fails.

Run the ssh client first-time enable command in the system view to allow the AP to access the server. The public key will be saved and used for authentication on the server.

[Huawei] ssh client first-time enable

Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using FTP

Applicable Scope

Applicable version: V200R007 and later versions

Applicable models:

AP Series

AP Model

AP3000

AP3010DN-V2 and AP3030DN

AP4000

AP4030DN, AP4030DN-E, and AP4130DN

AP5000

AP5030DN, AP5030DN-S, and AP5130DN

This example is also applicable to switching a Fit AP to the Fat mode using TFTP. Note the following differences:

  • Configure the TFTP client software on the PC, which is not mentioned here.
  • Different parameters are used in the command for switching the AP mode and are described in the procedure.

Networking Scenario

To use a new AP to independently provide Wi-Fi coverage, you need to switch the AP to the Fat mode and deploy services through the web platform or other way.

Connect the AP to a PC through an Ethernet cable in a proper mode, as shown in Figure 1-5.

If the AP supports DC power supply and works with a power adapter, connect the AP to a PC directly through an Ethernet cable. If the AP does not support DC power supply or no adapter is available, supply PoE power to the AP. In this case, connect the AP to the PC through a PoE device.

When the PC serves as an FTP server, prepare the Fat AP software package for the AP to obtain through FTP.

Figure 1-5 AP-PC connection diagram

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Configure the IP address, STelnet client, and FTP server software on the PC. Download the Fat AP software package of the target version to the FTP server. Check network connectivity and the indicator states of the AP.

2

Check AP information: On the PC, log in to the AP through STelnet to check the version and working mode of the AP.

3

Start the switching: Execute commands sequentially in system view.

ap-mode-switch prepare //The AP may need to be restarted depending on the AP status.

ap-mode-switch check

ap-mode-switch ftp filename server-ip-address user-name password [ port ] //The AP will restart.

If TFTP is used, run the ap-mode-switch tftp filename server-ip-address command.

NOTE:

For the support for FTP, SFTP, and TFTP modes by different models and versions, see the Fit AP Command Reference. Select a proper mode as required.

4

Verify the switching: Log in to the AP again and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 7

    STelnet client: PuTTY (third-party software)

    FTP server software

    AP

    Model: AP5030DN

    Version: V200R007C20

    Default information:

    • IP address: 169.254.1.1
    • STelnet login port number: 22
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Power on the AP. The indicator is on for around 2 minutes during the startup. When the indicator blinks, the AP is started successfully.

    # Set the IP address of the PC to 169.254.1.100 and mask to 255.255.0.0 so that the PC and AP are located on the same network segment.

    # Set FTP server parameters.

    # Log in to Huawei enterprise technical support website (support.huawei.com/e), download the Fat AP software package, and store the package on the FTP directory.

  2. Check AP information.

    # Open PuTTY on the PC, enter the IP address and port number of the AP, select the SSH mode, and click Open. If a key pair information prompt is displayed, click Yes.

    # When the following information is displayed, the AP is connected successfully. Enter the user name and password to log in to the AP.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:    //For information security, characters you entered are invisible.

Info: Current mode: Fit (managed by the AC).  //The current mode is Fit.
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei>

    # Check AP information.

    <Huawei> display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP5030DN FIT V200R007C20SPCa00)  //Model, working mode, and version
...

  3. Start the switching.

    # Prepare the switching.

    [Huawei] ap-mode-switch prepare
Info: Prepare is ok, Use ap-mode-switch command to switch to fat ap.

    # Verify before the switching.

    [Huawei] ap-mode-switch check
Info: Ap-mode-switch check ok.

    # Switch the AP mode to Fat. Set the file name (including the extension) of the target software package, IP address, user name, and password of the FTP server. The AP will restart and the restart takes around 2 minutes.

    [Huawei] ap-mode-switch ftp FatAP5X30XN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100 huawei huawei123
Warning: Do Not Power-off.........
Info: Upgrade upgrade-assistant-package successfully!
Warning: System will reboot, if you want to switch to upgrade-assistant-package.
 Are you sure to execute these operations ? [Y/N]: y

    If TFTP is used, specify the following parameters in the switching command (as an example).

    ap-mode-switch tftp FatAP5X30XN_V200R007C20SPCa00.bin 169.254.1.100

    In V200R019C10 and later versions, the file name extension of the AP software package is changed from .bin to .cc.

  4. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password: 

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP5030DN FAT V200R007C20SPCa00)
...

Example for Switching an Online Fit AP to the Fat Mode Through the AC

Applicable Scope

All APs that properly go online on an AC

Applicable version: V200R007 and later versions

Applicable models: APs supporting both the Fit and Fat modes

In centralized management mode, you can manage the upgrade and mode switching for a single AP or APs of the same model or in the same group on the AC. This example describes how to switch the working mode of a single AP.

Networking Scenario

Log in to the AC through the web platform, without the need to adjust the networking or cable connection.

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Download the Fat AP software package of the target version to the PC where you log in to the AC.

2

Check AP information: Log in to the web platform of the AC, choose Monitoring > AP, and view information about the AP, including the IP address, model, and version.

3

Load the software package to the AP: Choose Maintenance > AP Maintenance > AP Upgrade, select the upgrade mode, and upload the software package, and upgrade the AP. You can check the upgrade progress on the Upgrade Status page. The upgrade state is displayed success after around 2 minutes (requiring mode switching).

NOTE:

To switch the working mode for APs in a batch, select an AP model or group on this page to determine the upgrade scope and select the immediate or scheduled upgrade mode.

4

Start the switching: Choose Configuration > AP Config > AP Config, and modify AP mode as fat. The AP restarts. The restart takes around 2 minutes.

5

Verify the switching: Log in to the AC using the CLI console on the web platform, STelnet to the AP and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 7

    Browser: Google Chrome

    IP address: 169.254.1.100

    AC

    Model: AC6605

    Version: V200R007C20

    Management IP address: 169.254.1.1

    Administrator account: Telnet and web platform

    • User name: admin
    • Password: huawei@123

    AP

    Model: AP4050DN

    Version: V200R007C20

    Information for the radio used by the AP to go online:

    • IP address: 192.168.10.227
    • STelnet login port number: 22 (default)
    • User names and passwords: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Log in to Huawei enterprise technical support website (support.huawei.com/e), download the Fat AP software package, and store the package on the PC.

  2. Check AP information.

    # Enter the IP address of the AC in the browser of the PC. Enter the user name and password to log in to the web platform. If a security connection prompt is displayed, continue with the operation.

    # Choose Monitoring > AP. Search for the target AP in AP List, check AP information, and record the IP address of the AP. Continue with the following operations only when the AP status is normal or ver-mismatch.

  3. Load the software package to the AP.

    • V200R007C20

      # Choose Maintenance > AP Maintenance > AP Upgrade, select the software package stored on the PC, and upload the upgrade file to the AC.

      # Under AP Upgrade, select the target AP.

      # Select the target software package and click Upgrade.

      # Click the Upgrade Status tab to check the AP upgrade progress. The upgrade takes around 2 minutes.

    • V200R008

      # Choose Maintenance > AP Maintenance > AP Upgrade, and click New Upgrade Task under AP Upgrade Configuration.

      # In the New Upgrade Task dialog box, set upgrade parameters and click OK.

      Click next to AP name and select the AP to be upgraded in the AP list. Click next to Select a file to upload the Fat AP software package or select the uploaded Fat AP software package.

      # Click the APs Being Upgraded tab to check the AP upgrade progress. The upgrade takes around 2 minutes.

    • V200R009 and later versions (V200R010 is used as an example.)

      # Choose Maintenance > Device Upgrade > AP Upgrade, and click New Upgrade Task under AP Upgrade Configuration.

      # In the New Upgrade Task dialog box, set upgrade parameters and click OK.

      Click next to AP name and select the AP to be upgraded in the AP list. Click next to Select a file to upload the Fat AP software package or select the uploaded Fat AP software package.

      # Click the APs Being Upgraded tab to check the AP upgrade progress. The upgrade takes around 2 minutes.

  4. Start the switching.

    # Go to the AP Config page.

    # Select AP, click Modify, select AP mode as fat, and click OK. The AP restarts, which takes around 2 minutes.

  5. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password: 

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP5030DN FAT V200R007C20SPCa00)
...

Example for Switching a Fit AP to the Fat Mode Using Uboot

Applicable Scope

It is recommended that the AP mode be switched using a method described in the preceding part. If the switching fails, consider switching the AP mode in Uboot mode.

Applicable version: versions earlier than V200R019C10

Applicable model: APs that support the Fit and Fat modes and have a console port

Networking Scenario

If the mode switching using the preceding methods fails, you can use the Uboot mode to switch the AP mode.

Connect the AP to a PC through an Ethernet cable in a proper mode, as shown in Figure 1-6.

If the AP supports DC power supply and works with a power adapter, connect the AP to a PC directly through an Ethernet cable. If the AP does not support DC power supply or no adapter is available, supply PoE power to the AP. In this case, connect the AP to the PC through a PoE device.

When the PC serves as a TFTP server, prepare the Fat AP software package for the AP to obtain through TFTP.

Figure 1-6 AP-PC connection diagram

Quick Configuration

This section helps you quickly configure an AP, without the need to read the entire document. If you are not familiar with the product or operation, read the detailed guidance in the following sections.

Step

Task

1

Prepare the environment: Download the Fat AP software package of the target version to the PC. Configure the IP address for the PC and specify the TFTP tool directory to the same as that for storing the software package on the PC. Check network connectivity and the indicator states of the AP.

2

Start the switching: Restart the AP, enter the Uboot CLI view, configure the IP addresses of the AP and TFTP server, and run the update system filename command. Restart the AP again.

3

Verify the switching: Log in to the AP again and check the working mode of the AP.

Configuration Procedure

  1. Prepare the environment.

    The following is used as an example. Prepare your environment based on site requirements.

    Device

    Description

    PC

    Operating system: Windows 7

    Terminal emulation software: PuTTY (third-party software)

    TFTP server software

    AP

    Model: AP4050DN

    Version: V200R007C20

    Default information:

    • Baud rate (B): 9600
    • Data bits (D): 8
    • Parity (P): None
    • Stop bits (S): 1
    • Flow control (F): None
    • Uboot password: The default username and password are available in WLAN Default Usernames and Passwords (Enterprise Network or Carrier). If you have not obtained the access permission of the document, see Help on the website to find out how to obtain it.

    # Set the PC IP address to 192.168.56.1.

    # Set TFTP server parameters.
    • Open the TFTP software on the PC. Select a local directory to provide file services for clients.

    # Log in to Huawei enterprise technical support website (support.huawei.com/e), download the Fat AP software package, and store the package on the FTP directory.

  2. Enter the Uboot CLI view and configure the AP to communicate with the TFTP server.

    # Connect the AP to the PC through a serial cable. Check the COM port used by the serial port on the PC.

    # Open PuTTY on the PC, set Connection type to Serial, enter the COM port, and click Open.

    # Restart the AP.

    # Press F within 3 seconds when the following information is displayed to enter the Uboot CLI view:

    Press f or F  to stop Auto-Boot in 3 seconds:  3  
Password for uboot cmd line :     //Enter the Uboot password.
ar7240>

    # Configure IP addresses for the AP and TFTP server to be in the same network segment so that the AP can obtain the target software package from the TFTP server.

    ar7240> setenv ipaddr 192.168.56.2  //IP address of the AP
ar7240> setenv serverip 192.168.56.1   //IP address of the TFTP server
ar7240> saveenv  
Saving Environment to Flash...  
Erasing Flash...Writing to Flash... done

  3. Start the switching.

    # Switch the AP mode to Fat. Set the file name (including the file name extension) of the target software package.

    In V200R019C10 and later versions, the file name extension of the AP software package is changed from .bin to .cc.

    ar7240> update system Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20.bin
Using eth0 device                                                               
TFTP from server 192.168.56.1; our IP address is 192.168.56.2                   
Filename 'Fat&CloudAP4050DN_V200R007C20SPCh00.bin'.                             
Load address: 0x84000000                                                        
Loading: #################################################################      
           #################################################################      
           #################################################################      
           ##################                                                     
done                                                                            
......
......                                     
The current device is a FIT AP, but the upgrade package is for a FAT&CLOUD AP. C
ontinue? [y/n]:y                                                                
Warning: Do Not Power-Off!
................................................................................
............Done                                                                
Warning: Do Not Power-Off!                                                      
...Done                                                                         
Upgrade nor Boot Successful                                                     
Writing Version to Flash...                                                     
Set Boot KernelA Address: 0x1c0f000                                             
Erasing SPI flash...Writing to SPI flash...done                                 
Warning: The backup software system of the AP supports the fat and cloud modes. 
To retain the default mode (fat), please input 'Y' or 'y'. Alternatively, please
 select a mode (fat/cloud):fat      //To switch to the cloud mode, enter cloud.
Info: The system will start in default(Fat) mode. Please restart the system.    
Upgrade Firmware to A Successful

    # Restart the AP, which takes about 2 minutes.

    ar7240> reset
Resetting...

  4. Verify the switching.

    # Log in to the AP to view AP information. The AP is working in Fat mode.

    login as: admin
Further authentication required
admin@169.254.1.1's password:  

Info: Current mode: Fat (working independently).
Warning: The default country code is CN. Ensure that AP radio attributes comply 
with laws and regulations in different countries. Do you want to change the 
country code? [Y/N]:n
Info: You are advised to change the password to ensure security.
<Huawei> system-view
[Huawei] display version
Huawei Versatile Routing Platform Software
VRP (R) software, Version 5.170 (AP4050DN FAT V200R007C20SPCh00)
...

Troubleshooting

For details about how to troubleshoot failures to switch between the Fat and Fit AP modes, see Fit AP and Fat AP Mode Switching Failure.

Related Information: How to Use the AP After Its Mode Is Switched

How Can I Configure Services After Switching the AP Mode

  • APs in Fit mode can go online without configurations, and the AC will manage the APs and deliver configurations to them. Ensure network connectivity between the AC and APs. You are advised to deploy services using the web platform of the AC. For details, see Configuration Guide Video and Product Documentation.
  • After an AP is switched to the Fat mode, you are advised to deploy services using the web platform of the AP. For details, see Configuration Guide Video and Product Documentation.
  • APs in cloud mode can go online without configurations, and the cloud management platform will manage the APs and deliver configurations to them. Ensure network connectivity between the cloud management platform and APs. Then deploy services on the cloud management platform. For details, see CloudCampus Solution.
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Updated: 2022-06-21

Document ID: EDOC1100081212

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