Assigning AP VLAN to AP ports on FortiSwitch

When you connect a FortiAP to a FortiSwitch port that is assigned an AP VLAN, the FortiAP automatically connects to the FortiGate, receives an IP address, and becomes authorized. To simplify the deployment, a FortiAP connects to a FortiSwitch PoE port for power source.

Following is an overview of the procedure:

1. Assign an AP VLAN to AP ports. See Assigning an AP VLAN to AP ports .
2. Use an Ethernet cable to connect the APs to FortiSwitch. See Connect the APs to FortiSwitch .
3. Verify managed APs. See Verifying managed APs .

Assigning an AP VLAN to AP ports

To assign an AP VLAN to AP ports:

1. Go to WiFi & Switch Controller > FortiSwitch Ports.
2. Identify a port that supports PoE.
3. Change the native VLAN to the AP VLAN:
   1. Hover the mouse over the native VLAN of the port. A pencil icon is displayed.
   2. Click the pencil icon to open the port for editing. The Select Entries dialog box is displayed.
   3. Choose the VLAN to assign to this port.

      If a VLAN hasn’t been defined yet, click the Create to create a new VLAN.

   4. Click Apply to save the change.

Connect the APs to FortiSwitch

To use connect the APs to FortiSwitch:

1. Use Ethernet cables to connect the APs to the correct ports on the PoE-capable FortiSwitch.
2. Wait a few minutes for the AP devices to boot up and become authorized.

   In FortiOS, you can check the progress by going to Security Fabric > Physical Topology or by going to WiFi & Switch Controller > Managed FortiAPs.

Verifying managed APs

To verify APs:

1. Go to WiFi & Switch Controller > Managed FortiAPs.
2. If necessary, use the dropdown menu on the right-hand side to change from Group to AP.
3. If necessary, authorize APs that have not been automatically authorized by using the right-click menu or the Edit button.
4. It is recommended to rename the APs to indicate location, such as MainLobby or Breakroom by editing the AP.