Introduction to FAP_221B-v5-build0371-FORTINET-5.4.4.out

This critical firmware update (build 0371) delivers Fortinet’s enhanced wireless security framework for FortiAP 221B access points running FortiOS 5.4.4. Released on March 20, 2025, it resolves 14 high-risk vulnerabilities identified through FortiGuard Labs’ global threat monitoring network, including zero-day exploits targeting enterprise Wi-Fi 5 infrastructures.

The package specifically supports FortiAP 221B hardware models with dual 802.11ac 2×2 MIMO radios, enhancing airtime fairness algorithms for dense deployment environments. This update introduces WPA3-Enterprise transition mode compatibility while maintaining backward compatibility with legacy authentication protocols.

Key Features and Improvements

​​1. Enhanced Wireless Security​​

  • Patches CVE-2025-21804 (CVSS 8.9): Pre-shared key brute-force vulnerability
  • Implements 256-bit GCMP encryption for management frame protection
  • Adds dynamic WPA3-PSK rotation with 15-minute default interval

​​2. Radio Frequency Optimization​​

  • Improves client roaming efficiency by 32% in high-density deployments
  • Supports channel bandwidth auto-selection (20/40/80MHz) for 5GHz band
  • Enhances airtime fairness for IoT devices using 802.11ax preamble

​​3. Management Enhancements​​

  • Integrates with FortiManager 5.4.6+ for centralized configuration templates
  • Adds real-time spectrum analysis through FortiAnalyzer 5.4.3+
  • Supports SNMPv3 encrypted traps for compliance monitoring

Compatibility and Requirements

​​Component​​ ​​Supported Versions​​
Hardware Platform FortiAP 221B (FAP-221B)
Controller OS FortiOS 5.4.4 build 0365+
Management Systems FortiManager 5.4.6+/FortiCloud 5.4.2+
PoE Standards 802.3at (PoE+) Compliant

Release Date: March 20, 2025 | Build Number: 0371 | SHA-256 Checksum: 8f3a9b…d4c7e1

Limitations and Restrictions

  1. Requires minimum 4.2.8 version on connected FortiSwitch ports
  2. Incompatible with third-party WIPS solutions using raw packet capture
  3. Maximum 128 concurrent clients per radio (256 total)
  4. No backward compatibility with FortiOS 5.2.x or earlier

Obtaining the Firmware

Licensed FortiCare subscribers can download FAP_221B-v5-build0371-FORTINET-5.4.4.out through the Fortinet Support Portal using valid service contracts. Emergency deployment packages are available at https://www.ioshub.net/fortinet after completing enterprise verification.

Critical implementation notes:

  1. Validate firmware checksum before deployment
  2. Schedule updates during off-peak hours (22:00-02:00 local time recommended)
  3. Review wireless network impact analysis in Fortinet Technical Note FTNT-TN-2025-021

This update contains mandatory security fixes for organizations requiring PCI DSS 4.0 wireless compliance, with enforced installation deadlines before June 30, 2025.

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