Cisco WLC - Issues with APs Joining the Controller and Upgrading Firmware After 12/4/2022

 Any IOS-based AP (1700/2700/3700/1570) downloading a new image from WLC running any version after December 4th 2022.

The AP can leave and re-join any WLC after Dec 4th 2022 provided it does not have to download a new image, if it has to download a new image (regardless of the version, 9800 IOS-XE or AireOS), it will fail.

For any WLC that has APs stuck in the downloading state:

• Disable Network Time Protocol (NTP) on the WLC and manually set the WLC date/time to a date before December 2, 2022. The Cisco IOS AP will then be able to download and validate the image, install the new image, and join the controller. Once the AP has joined the controller, NTP can be re-enabled on the controller to assume the correct date and time.

https://bst.cloudapps.cisco.com/bugsearch/bug/CSCwd80290

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless/aironet-700-series-access-points/218447-ios-ap-image-download-fails-due-to-expir.html

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/field-notices/725/fn72524.html