A network student bought a cheap 3602e on eBay. The AP was stuck in Lightweight mode. By using the .tar file and the ROMMON method, they successfully converted it to Autonomous mode, building a CCNP Wireless lab for under $50.
is a Cisco IOS software image used to run Cisco Aironet Access Points in Autonomous (Standalone) mode . Specifically, this "ap3g2" image is designed for the Aironet 3700 Series (including the 3702i) and 3600 Series access points. Software Identification Platform Identifier (ap3g2):
"Ap3g2-k9w7-tar.153-3.jbb1.tar (WORK) — snapshot v153-3 of project Ap3g2-k9w7, packaged for internal WORK deployment; includes source, docs, tests, and build artifacts (see metadata.json for exact versions). Verify integrity and scan for secrets before use." Ap3g2-k9w7-tar.153-3.jbb1.tar WORK
archive download-sw /overwrite tftp://10.0.0.100/ap3g2-k9w7-tar.153-3.jbb1.tar
Autonomous mode is the standard for professional wireless site surveys, as it allows engineers to manually control radio power and channels on a standalone unit. Small Business/Home Lab: A network student bought a cheap 3602e on eBay
Use this if the AP is already autonomous and you just want to update the version.
The file is a Cisco Autonomous (Standalone) IOS Software image designed to make Cisco Aironet 1700, 2600, 2700, and 3700 series access points function independently without requiring a Wireless LAN Controller (WLC). Many enterprise networks deploy these units as Lightweight Access Points (APs) managed by a central controller. However, for standalone deployment, home labs, or local testing, installing this autonomous image is necessary to gain full, independent web and command-line management capabilities. is a Cisco IOS software image used to
To harden the AP:
ap3g2 - k9w7 - tar . 153-3.jbb1 . tar | | | | Platform Feature Format Version AP 3702i - IOS version for Autonomous Mode
But what does "WORK" mean in the context of this file? For network engineers, "WORK" means a successful upgrade, a stable wireless deployment, or the resurrection of a bricked device. This article will dissect every aspect of making this .tar image work—from downloading the correct image to troubleshooting common failure points.
is for lightweight. This image is only for Autonomous conversion. Cisco Community Can't entering a web browser - AP 3702i - Cisco Community