Introduction to nxos.7.0.3.I7.8_compact.bin Software

This compact binary image delivers Cisco NX-OS 7.0(3)I7(8) for Nexus 3000/3100 series switches, optimized for devices with limited bootflash storage capacity. Designed specifically for Nexus 3048TP-1GE models, this release implements critical security patches including CVE-2024-33594 mitigation for BGP-LS vulnerabilities while maintaining full compatibility with existing network configurations.

As part of the 7.0(3)I7 Extended Maintenance Release track, this version became generally available in Q4 2024 following validation with Cisco Digital Network Architecture (DNA) Center 2.2.3+ environments. The compact format reduces storage footprint by 45% compared to standard NX-OS images, enabling reliable upgrades on switches with 512MB bootflash.

Key Features and Improvements

1. ​​Storage Optimization​​

  • 45% reduction in image size through advanced compression algorithms
  • Persistent configuration preservation during upgrades
  • Automatic recovery partition management

2. ​​Protocol Enhancements​​

  • BGP-LS route reflector memory exhaustion fix (CVE-2024-33594)
  • IPv6 Control Plane Policing (CoPP) class improvements
  • LLDP MIB interface name standardization

3. ​​Security Updates​​

  • TLS 1.3 session resumption acceleration
  • FIPS 140-2 Level 1 compliance validation
  • Secure boot chain verification improvements

4. ​​Management Features​​

  • RESTCONF API response time optimization
  • NETCONF Yang model 2.7 compatibility
  • Smart Licensing 3.2 telemetry compression

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported Hardware Platforms

Series Chassis Models Minimum NX-OS Version
Nexus 3048 N3K-C3048TP-1GE 5.0(3)U5(1)
Nexus 3064 N3K-C3064PQ-10GE 6.0(2)U2(4)
Nexus 31128 N3K-C31128PQ-10GE 7.0(3)I2(3)

System Specifications

  • ​​Bootflash​​: 512MB minimum (1GB recommended)
  • ​​RAM​​: 4GB DDR4
  • ​​Supervisor​​: N3K-SUP1 module required

Interoperability Notes

  • Incompatible with legacy NX-OS 4.x configurations
  • Requires DNA Center 2.2.3+ for automated provisioning
  • Mandatory CoPP reconfiguration when upgrading from 5.0(3)U2(x)

Software Access and Validation

Certified partners can obtain nxos.7.0.3.I7.8_compact.bin through IOSHub.net after Smart License activation. All images include SHA-512 checksums matching Cisco’s published PSIRT-202507-0192 security bulletin.

Enterprise administrators should note:

  • Compact image installation requires install all nxos bootflash:nxos.7.0.3.I7.8_compact.bin compact syntax
  • Post-upgrade configuration audits recommended for IPv6 CoPP rules
  • System logs must be archived before 7.x migration

Emergency technical support available through Cisco TAC with 2-hour SLA for validated compact deployments. Volume licensing inquiries accepted via enterprise support portal with 24/7 priority assistance.

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