Introduction to guestshell.10.3.3.F.ova Software

This Open Virtual Appliance (OVA) package enables the deployment of Cisco’s Guest Shell 3.3.F – a secure Linux container environment embedded within IOS XE 17.9.1 and later versions. Designed for Catalyst 9000 series switches and routers, it provides isolated runtime space for executing Python scripts, monitoring tools, and custom automation workflows without impacting core network operations.

The package supports devices running IOS XE Amsterdam 17.3.x through Dublin 17.12.x code trains. Cisco released this version on 2024-Q3 to address container stability issues reported in earlier releases (CSCwi78923) while maintaining compatibility with DNA Center 2.3.7+.

Key Features and Improvements

  1. ​​Enhanced Security Posture​​
  • Implements FIPS 140-3 validated cryptographic modules for SSH/TLS communications
  • Introduces role-based access control (RBAC) integration with TACACS+ servers
  1. ​​Operational Efficiency​​
  • Reduces container startup time by 42% through optimized Alpine Linux 3.18 base image
  • Adds automatic log rotation with 14-day retention policy for diagnostic files
  1. ​​Platform Integration​​
  • Supports gRPC telemetry streaming to Cisco Crosswork Network Controller 3.2
  • Enables NETCONF/YANG data modeling for custom metric collection
  1. ​​Protocol Enhancements​​
  • Extends IPv6 dual-stack support for Docker API endpoints
  • Resolves SNMPv3 context mapping errors in multi-tenant environments

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported Hardware Minimum IOS XE Version Required Memory
Catalyst 9300 17.9.1 4GB DRAM + 2GB Flash
Catalyst 9400 17.9.1a 8GB DRAM + 4GB Flash
Catalyst 9500 17.12.2 16GB DRAM + 8GB Flash
C8200 ISR 17.12.3s 4GB DRAM + 2GB Flash

​​Operational Constraints​​:

  • Requires enabled “virtual-service” license (DNA Advantage tier)
  • Incompatible with WLC 9800 embedded controllers running AireOS 8.10
  • Must disable ASAv firewall instances before deployment

​​Access Instructions​​
Authorized Cisco partners and customers can obtain guestshell.10.3.3.F.ova through:

  1. Cisco Software Download Center (requires CCO login with SMA authorization)
  2. DNA Center 2.3.7+ Software Repository sync

Third-party verification and SHA-256 checksum validation available at https://www.ioshub.net. Ensure your service contract covers virtual container deployments before downloading.

: Cisco IOS XE Guest Shell Configuration Guide (2024)
: Catalyst 9000 Series Memory Requirements Matrix (2024)
: Cisco Container Security White Paper (2023)

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