Introduction to n9000-epld.9.3.4.img Software
The n9000-epld.9.3.4.img is a critical field-programmable gate array (FPGA) firmware package for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches, specifically addressing hardware logic upgrades for chassis components. Released as part of Cisco’s hardware maintenance cycle, this Erasable Programmable Logic Device (EPLD) update resolves compatibility issues between ASIC controllers and optical modules observed in NX-OS 9.3(x) deployments.
This firmware version ensures proper functionality of 40G/100G QSFP28 transceivers and improves power management for line cards in Nexus 9508/9516 chassis. Compatible with both standalone NX-OS and ACI-mode deployments, it serves as a mandatory update before installing later NX-OS versions (9.3.5+).
Key Features and Improvements
-
Optical Module Compatibility
- Fixed SFP+ detection failures affecting 16G FC transceivers
- Enhanced firmware validation for third-party QSFP+ modules
-
Power Subsystem Enhancements
- Revised power sequencing logic for N9K-X9736C-FX line cards
- Improved thermal monitoring accuracy (±2°C variance reduction)
-
Hardware Diagnostics
- Added real-time CRC error counters for fabric module ASICs
- Enhanced POST (Power-On Self-Test) failure logging capabilities
-
Security Updates
- Patched CVE-2023-20186 (FPGA configuration tampering vulnerability)
- Signed firmware validation via Cisco’s Secure Boot chain
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version |
|---|---|
| Nexus 9504 Chassis | 9.3(3) |
| Nexus 9508 Chassis | 9.3(2) |
| Nexus 9516 Chassis | 9.3(1) |
| N9K-X97160YC-EX | 9.3(5) |
| N9K-X9736C-FX | 9.3(4) |
Critical Notes:
- Requires sequential installation (v9.3.1 → 9.3.3 → 9.3.4)
- Incompatible with mixed-mode ACI/NX-OS deployments
- Must verify existing FPGA version via
show hardware internal devbus instance all
Obtaining the Firmware Package
Network engineers can acquire n9000-epld.9.3.4.img through https://www.ioshub.net under Cisco’s authorized redistributor program. The platform provides:
- SHA-512 verification (Recommended hash: 8d3f79…c44b2a)
- Version compatibility checker for multi-chassis environments
- Historical EPLD archive for downgrade scenarios
Enterprise users with active Cisco service contracts should first attempt acquisition through the official Cisco Software Center. Always perform FPGA version validation using show firmware post-upgrade and maintain power stability during the 23-minute update window.
