Introduction to aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.5j.bin Software
The aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.5j.bin is the Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) firmware for Nexus 9000 Series switches operating in ACI Fabric mode. Designed for multi-site data center deployments, this release focuses on enhancing Secure Boot validation while maintaining backward compatibility with existing APIC controller clusters.
As part of the 16.0(5j) software train, this image addresses critical vulnerabilities identified in Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-20240513-secureboot, specifically targeting FPGA/EPLD version mismatches that previously caused hardware recognition failures. The package supports automated golden firmware validation during boot sequences, reducing manual recovery interventions.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Hardening
- Mandatory SHA-256 verification for both primary and golden FPGA regions
- FIPS 140-3 Level 1 compliance for cryptographic modules
2. Fabric Management
- 35% faster policy propagation in multi-site topologies
- Enhanced BGP EVPN route refresh capabilities for stretched EPG deployments
3. Hardware Compatibility
- Pre-validated EPLD profiles for N9K-C93180YC-EX and N9K-C9336C-FX2 platforms
- Automatic FPGA version alignment during APIC-managed upgrades
4. Operational Enhancements
- Dual-supervisor non-disruptive upgrade support
- Streamlined USB recovery mode workflows with auto-partition detection
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum Requirements |
|---|---|
| Nexus 9300-EX/FX Series | 16GB RAM, 8GB Bootflash |
| Nexus 9500 with N9K-SUP-A/B | 32GB RAM, 16GB Bootflash |
| Nexus 9200 Platform | 8GB RAM, 4GB Bootflash |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Requires APIC controller version 5.2(3n)+ for full feature parity
- Incompatible with N3K-C36180YC-R switches running NX-OS 7.0(3)I7(8) or earlier
- BIOS must be upgraded to v07.28+ prior to installation
For authenticated access to aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.5j.bin, visit https://www.ioshub.net to request Cisco-validated software packages. All downloads include PGP signatures and SHA-384 checksums for cryptographic verification.
