WLC is randomly stoped working

[maldafee]

Dear IT,

We have Cisco WLC Model No: AIR-CT5508-K9 with Software Version: 7.6.110.0

Suddenly, it started to hung and stopped working randomly. I can say it stopped 2-3 a week. After we powered it off and started it up, it worked fine.

I have a copy of the last (Jan 19 2022) Controller Crash Information attached with this post.

If anyone can help me, please..

Regards.

[marce1000]

 - You are running a very old AireOS version on the 5508 , please upgrade to the latest release  that the 5508 can (still) run : https://software.cisco.com/download/home/282600534/type/280926587/release/8.5.171.0

 M.

[maldafee]

Thanks Dear marce1000 for your replay.

I do not have access to the Cisco SW download because my service contract is expired long time ago.

Is there any legal way to get access to it and download the appropriate release ?

[marce1000]

    - You may try to raise a TAC case and argue for impact on your business, sometimes they will then give it to you. Note however that if you are using a cisco product . servicing your business ,  then it would be better to have a Service Contract too. That goes for any product.

 M.

[maldafee]

I opened a TAC with  Cisco and waiting for the replay.

I appropriate your help.

[maldafee]

Cisco replied to me and said that (Please be informed that software download is only permitted for products covered under an active service contract.)

Thanks for your help.

[Leo Laohoo]

The only way to fix this issue is to upgrade the firmware of the WLC.  7.6.110.0 is extremely ancient.

No valid Service Contract?  No problem.  Read on: 

1. Read the "Multiple Vulnerabilities in Wi-Fi Protected Access and Wi-Fi Protected Access II" Security Bulletin (aka KRACK)
2. Scroll down to the "Customers Without Service Contracts" section. 
3. Read the 2nd paragraph very, very carefully.  

NOTE:  Please refer to the Cisco Wireless Solutions Software Compatibility Matrix and look at Table 6 to determine if the WLC &/or AP code support.  

[maldafee]

Thanks for the replay, we will contact Cisco trying to get the SW Release.

I appropriate your help.

[Scott Fella]

You should also keep in ming that maybe your controller is starting to fail.  You should look at possible upgrading or understanding how to upgrade your environment.  We have 5508's still and going to be moving off them this year.  You should at least have a spare 5508 just in case if you don't have a valid contract.

[maldafee]

As spare we are thinking about vWLC besides 5508.. What do you think about that ?

[Scott Fella]

You need to look for equipment that is not close to end of life. Never migrate to something that is end of sale or in a few years end of support. You also need to think about support through the lifecycle of your gear especially in production. If you want to upgrade, you will probably need to upgrade your AP’s also. The 9800-CL is a virtual controller, but requires Access Points that are supported. You can look at the data sheet or the wlc matrix. 
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/wireless/catalyst-9800-cl-wireless-controller-cloud/nb-06-cat9800-cl-cloud-wirel-data-sheet-ctp-en.html
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/wireless/compatibility/matrix/compatibility-matrix.html