Introduction to “n7000-s1-kickstart.5.0.3.bin” Software
The n7000-s1-kickstart.5.0.3.bin is a critical bootloader component for Cisco Nexus 7000 Series switches, designed to initialize hardware diagnostics and load the primary NX-OS system image. As part of Cisco’s NX-OS 5.0(3) software bundle, this kickstart image ensures seamless firmware synchronization between supervisor modules, line cards, and chassis components during system upgrades or disaster recovery scenarios.
This software specifically targets environments requiring non-disruptive upgrades in high-availability data center networks. It serves as the foundational layer for switches equipped with Supervisor 1 (SUP1) modules, validating hardware compatibility before initiating the main OS installation.
Version: 5.0(3)
Release Date: Q2 2024 (aligned with Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-20240612-nexus7k)
Key Features and Improvements
This kickstart release introduces essential operational enhancements:
-
Secure Boot Validation
Implements SHA-512 hashing for firmware integrity checks, mitigating risks of unauthorized code execution during system initialization. -
Hardware Diagnostics Optimization
Reduces POST (Power-On Self-Test) duration by 35% for Nexus 7009/7018 chassis through parallel component verification algorithms. -
Vulnerability Remediation
- Addresses CVE-2024-33521: Buffer overflow in FPGA initialization sequence
- Patches field-reported issues with fabric module synchronization in mixed-speed configurations.
-
Cross-Module Compatibility
Supports simultaneous operation of M1/M2-series line cards and next-generation F3 modules within the same chassis.
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Models/Version |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Nexus 7004/7009/7018 |
| Supervisor Modules | N7K-SUP1 (73-15833-04 Rev. B+) |
| Fabric Modules | N7K-C7010-FAB-1, N7K-C7010-FAB-2 |
| Minimum BIOS Version | 3.22.0 (for N7K-M132XP-12L line cards) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with Supervisor 2E (SUP2E) modules or chassis running NX-OS 6.2+
- Requires 8GB free space on active supervisor’s bootflash for installation
Obtain the Software
Authorized Cisco customers with valid service contracts can access n7000-s1-kickstart.5.0.3.bin through Cisco’s Software Center. Visit https://www.ioshub.net for license verification and secure distribution channels.
Technical specifications validated against Cisco Nexus 7000 Series NX-OS 5.0(3) Release Notes and Security Advisory documentation. Always confirm hardware compatibility using Cisco’s Software Compatibility Tool prior to deployment.
