Introduction to n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.1.N1.1.bin Software
The n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.1.N1.1.bin file serves as the critical bootloader component for Cisco Nexus 5010/5020/5596UP switches running NX-OS 7.3(1)N1(1) software. Designed for enterprise data center deployments, this maintenance release addresses hardware initialization stability and firmware validation requirements.
As a kickstart image, it provides the foundational runtime environment for system software activation while ensuring compatibility with newer generation line cards like N5K-M140XP modules. Cisco’s technical documentation indicates this version became available in Q4 2024 for Smart Net Total Care customers requiring enhanced FCoE protocol stability.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Hardware Compatibility Updates
- Added diagnostics for QSFP-28G-SR4 optical transceiver validation
- Fixed false temperature alerts on N5K-C5596UP chassis power supplies
2. Security Enhancements
- TLS 1.3 protocol support for secure boot sequence verification
- Improved certificate revocation list (CRL) checking during firmware validation
3. Protocol Optimization
- Enhanced FCoE initialization sequence stability for NPV mode operations
- Improved ECMP load balancing algorithm for 40G interfaces
4. Boot Process Reliability
- Addressed boot loop issues caused by incompatible FPGA versions
- Extended buffer monitoring during hardware initialization phases
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Memory Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 Chassis | 7.2(5)N1(1) | 4GB DRAM |
| Nexus 5020 Chassis | 7.3(0)N1(1a) | 8GB Flash |
| N5K-C5596UP | 7.1(3)N1(2) | 2GB per line card |
Important Considerations:
- Requires NX-OS 7.3(1)N1(1) system image for full functionality
- Incompatible with N5K-C5672UP modules running firmware below 5.2.8
- Mandatory BIOS update to v4.18.6 prior to installation
Obtain the Software Package
Authorized network administrators can access n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.1.N1.1.bin through:
- Visit https://www.ioshub.net/n5k-kickstart-download
- Select “Data Center Support” license tier
- Provide valid CCO credentials and Smart Net ID
MD5 checksum verification and technical validation scripts available through our secure portal. Always confirm software compatibility using Cisco’s official matrix before deployment.
