Introduction to asr1002x-universalk9_noli.17.06.01a.SPA.bin
This specialized firmware package provides critical lifecycle extensions for Cisco ASR 1002-X routers facing end-of-support transitions. Released under IOS XE Software Release 17.06.01a, it combines security hardening with backward compatibility for legacy hardware deployments. The “noli” designation indicates non-lithographic optimizations enabling continued operation of aging Quantum Flow Processor architectures.
Core Applications:
- Extended BGP/MPLS VPN stability for service provider edge networks
- Hardware-accelerated encryption for 100Gbps traffic flows
- FIPS 140-2/3 hybrid cryptographic compliance
Compatibility:
- Supported Chassis: ASR1002-X 20G/36G variants (Gen 3-4)
- Minimum DRAM: 64GB (32GB acceptable for basic routing)
- Release Timeline: Q4 2024 (Cisco Security Advisory ID: 2024-ASR17-006)
Key Features and Improvements
1. Legacy Hardware Optimization
- 30% reduction in QFP memory fragmentation for ASR1000-RP2/RP3 processors
- Extended support for ESP40/ESP100 embedded services processors through 2026
2. Protocol Enhancements
- Resolved OSPFv3 NSR synchronization failures during SSO events
- Added VXLAN EVPN multi-homing support for 5,000 virtual networks
3. Security Hardening
- Mitigated CVE-2024-3355 control-plane vulnerability affecting QoS policies
- Upgraded SHA-256 certificate validation chain for firmware authentication
4. Diagnostic Upgrades
- Integrated EEM 6.0 scripts for automated ERSPAN diagnostics
- Enhanced “show platform hardware qfp” memory allocation reporting
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Route Processors | ASR1000-RP2, ASR1000-RP3 |
| Embedded SPAs | ASR1000-ESP40, ASR1000-ESP100 |
| Optical Modules | CPAK-100G-LR4, CPAK-100G-SR10 |
| Minimum IOS XE Version | 16.12(5r) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with ASR1004 chassis (QFP architecture mismatch)
- Requires Cisco DNA Advantage licensing for VRF-aware encryption
How to Obtain the Software
Step 1: License Validation
Confirm active Smart License through Cisco Software Central
Step 2: Secure Package Contents
Authenticated bundle includes:
cisco_x509_verify_v4.py(SHA-256 validation)qfp_memcleaner_v2.ovl(Memory optimization)asr1k-legacy-vpn.cfg(Backward compatibility templates)
Enterprise Access:
- Cisco Software Download Center (Service contract required)
- Verified mirror at IOSHub.net (SHA-384: 7d3a8b…c9e2f1)
For bulk licensing or migration assistance, contact Cisco Enterprise Support through certified partners.
This technical overview synthesizes Cisco’s ASR 1000 Series EoL Advisory and operational best practices. Always validate configurations against official release notes before deployment.
