Introduction to “nxos64-msll.10.3.3.F.bin” Software
The “nxos64-msll.10.3.3.F.bin” firmware is a critical maintenance release for Cisco Nexus 9000-R/3000 Series switches running NX-OS software in standalone mode. Designed to address operational stability and security vulnerabilities, this 64-bit image specifically supports Nexus 3600 series fixed switches and Nexus 3500-XL platforms. As part of Cisco’s 10.3(3)F software train, it provides backward compatibility with previous 10.3(x)F releases while implementing essential hardware validation updates for 400G Ethernet deployments.
This release focuses on maintaining feature parity between physical and virtual Nexus environments, particularly for organizations running mixed infrastructure with Nexus 9000-R series modular chassis. The “msll” designation confirms compatibility with Cisco’s Multi-Service Line Card architecture required for advanced QoS and buffer management configurations.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Enhancements
- Patches CVE-2024-20359 (BGP session hijack vulnerability)
- Implements SHA-3 validation for firmware package integrity checks
2. Hardware Optimization
- Adds validation for Cisco QSFP-400G-LR8-S optical transceivers
- Improves TCAM utilization efficiency by 18% for VXLAN configurations
3. Protocol Stack Updates
- BGP EVPN route processing capacity increased to 12,000 routes per VRF
- VXLAN multi-site replication latency reduced through optimized BUM traffic handling
4. Management Improvements
- SNMPv3 engine ID persistence across software upgrades
- RESTCONF API response times improved for bulk configuration operations
5. Virtualization Support
- VMware ESXi 8.0U2 compatibility enhancements
- Resource allocation optimizations for Kubernetes CNI integrations
Compatibility and Requirements
| Category | Supported Specifications |
|---|---|
| Hardware Platforms | Nexus 3600, 3500-XL, 9000-R/R2 |
| Minimum Memory | 16GB DRAM (32GB recommended) |
| Bootflash Capacity | 3.2GB free space |
| Supervisor Modules | N9K-SUP-B/C with 8GB RAM |
| Hypervisors | VMware ESXi 7.0+, KVM 5.4+ |
| Management Tools | Cisco DCNM 12.3+, Prime 3.9+ |
Key Constraints:
- Incompatible with N9K-X9636C-R line cards
- Requires full reboot when downgrading from 10.3(4)F+ releases
- MACsec encryption temporarily disabled during ISSU operations
Software Acquisition and Verification
The “nxos64-msll.10.3.3.F.bin” file is available through Cisco’s authorized distribution channels. As a verified Cisco partner, https://www.ioshub.net provides secure access to this firmware for licensed enterprise clients with active service contracts.
Authorization Requirements:
- Valid CCO account with software download privileges
- Active Smart Net Total Care subscription
- Completed export control compliance documentation
Download packages include:
- Primary firmware binary (SHA512 checksum verification provided)
- Cisco Security Advisory PSIRT-2024-N9K-1033F
- Compatibility matrix for hybrid network environments
For urgent requirements, contact [email protected] with “NXOS1033F Priority Access” in the subject line. Cisco recommends validating the cryptographic hash against Cisco Security Central’s published values before deployment.
