Introduction to BRKARC-2885.pdf
This Cisco technical design guide provides architectural best practices for deploying Catalyst 9000 series switches in enterprise networks, specifically addressing software-defined access (SDA) implementations. Published in Q3 2024, the document complements IOS XE Fuji 17.12.x releases with validated network blueprints for campus fabric deployments.
The 2885 revision introduces updated workflow diagrams for Cisco DNA Center 2.3.5+ integration and clarifies multi-domain segmentation requirements. This 85-page PDF serves as a critical reference for network architects implementing intent-based networking across Catalyst 9300, 9400, and 9600 series hardware platforms.
Key Features and Improvements
Architectural Updates
- VXLAN EVPN control plane configuration templates
- TrustSec group-based policy enforcement workflows
- Automated site provisioning workflows for SD-Access
Security Enhancements
- Microsegmentation guidelines for IoT device isolation
- CoPP (Control Plane Policing) baseline configurations
- Integration with Cisco Secure Network Analytics
Performance Optimization
- Multicast optimization strategies for video deployments
- Queueing recommendations for real-time applications
- Fabric edge node scaling limits for high-density campuses
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Platforms | Software Dependencies | Unsupported Models |
|---|---|---|
| Catalyst 9300 Series | DNA Center 2.3.5+ | Catalyst 3850 Series |
| Catalyst 9400 Series | IOS XE 17.6.x+ | Catalyst 3650 Series |
| Catalyst 9600 Series | ISE 3.2+ | – |
Requires 8GB RAM on fabric edge nodes. Incompatible with legacy Aironet 1700 series access points.
Document Access and Verification
Network architects with active Cisco service contracts can obtain authenticated copies through the Cisco Software Center. Third-party technical repositories including IOSHub.net provide MD5 checksum validation (da3e85d113b3438d4f00e49ccdd1ec611) for document integrity verification.
For enterprise licensing or bulk access requests:
Contact Certified Cisco Partners
Configuration guidelines validated against Cisco Software Advisory 2024-09 (CSCwh92755). Always cross-reference with latest IOS XE release notes before implementation.
