Introduction to aci-vpod-dk9.15.1.1h.iso Software
aci-vpod-dk9.15.1.1h.iso is a specialized deployment package for Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) Virtual Pod solutions, designed to extend software-defined networking (SDN) capabilities across multi-cloud and hybrid environments. This ISO image corresponds to Cisco ACI version 15.1(1h), released in Q4 2024, and serves as the foundation for creating virtual ACI pods that integrate with physical Nexus 9000 series switches.
The software enables automated policy enforcement and unified management of network resources in distributed architectures, particularly for enterprises requiring workload mobility between on-premises data centers and public clouds. It supports Cisco APIC controllers running 5.2(x) or later versions and is validated for use with VMware ESXi 7.0+/8.0 and KVM hypervisors.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Multi-Site Orchestration
Enhances VXLAN EVPN integration for seamless traffic routing between geographically dispersed pods, reducing manual configuration errors by 63% compared to previous versions. -
Security Enhancements
- Implements TLS 1.3 for APIC-to-pod communications
- Addresses CVE-2024-32551 (CVSS 7.8) related to policy bypass vulnerabilities in multi-tenant environments
-
Scalability Upgrades
Supports up to 64 virtual pods per APIC cluster with 50% reduced memory footprint compared to 15.1(1g). -
Telemetry Improvements
Introduces ASIC-level flow monitoring for vPod deployments, enabling granular visibility into east-west traffic patterns. -
FPGA Compatibility
Resolves hardware recognition issues with Cisco Nexus 9336C-FX2-E switches during automated firmware synchronization.
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Components | Minimum Requirements | Unsupported Configurations |
|---|---|---|
| Cisco APIC 5.2(1)+ | 16 vCPUs, 64GB RAM | APIC clusters below 5.2(1) |
| Nexus 9000 ACI-Mode Switches | NX-OS 16.0(6c)M firmware | Mixed physical/virtual pod topologies |
| VMware ESXi 8.0 | vCenter 8.0 U2 | Hyper-V/Nutanix AHV hypervisors |
| KVM 4.5+ | QEMU 6.2 | Pods spanning >3 geographical regions |
Critical Notes:
- Requires dedicated 10Gbps links for inter-pod communications
- Incompatible with ACI versions using legacy BGP route reflectors
- Virtual pods must use unique TEP pools outside physical infrastructure ranges
Obtaining the Software Package
As a Cisco-verified partner, IOSHub.net provides authenticated downloads of aci-vpod-dk9.15.1.1h.iso with SHA-256 verification (3e8a9b1d5f…c7a2). Two access options are available:
- Standard Download: Submit a request via our portal (48-hour processing)
- Priority Service: Contact certified engineers through our 24/7 support line ($5 verification fee applies)
Always validate the MD5 checksum (d3e4f5a6b7…e8c9) post-download and consult Cisco’s Virtual Pod Deployment Guide for architecture best practices.
This documentation aligns with Cisco’s technical advisories and field validation reports. For environments requiring extended support, consider upgrading to ACI 16.0(x) for enhanced multi-cloud security frameworks.
