Ap3g1-k9w7-tar.153-3.jf15.tar -
: Indicates an archive format that includes not just the IOS image, but also radio firmware and the web-based Graphical User Interface (GUI) files.
: This is the "feature set" indicator. k9w7 denotes an Autonomous (Standalone) image. This allows the access point to operate independently without requiring a Wireless LAN Controller (WLC). In contrast, k9w8 would indicate a Lightweight (CAPWAP) image meant for controller-based environments. ap3g1-k9w7-tar.153-3.jf15.tar
: If you're creating or repackaging this for distribution, ensure you comply with the packaging guidelines of the target Linux distribution. : Indicates an archive format that includes not
In a standard production environment, this TAR file is uploaded to the WLC (Controller > Software > Download). The WLC unpacks the archive and distributes the contained binary to joined APs. The WLC handles the version validation to ensure compatibility. This allows the access point to operate independently
: The k9w7 in the name identifies this as Autonomous software. If you see k9w8 , that's a Lightweight image.
Keep holding (roughly 20 seconds) until the status LED turns red, then release.