Introduction to n9000-epld.7.0.3.I7.8.img
The n9000-epld.7.0.3.I7.8.img is Cisco’s critical firmware package for Nexus 9000 series switches, specifically addressing hardware-programmable logic updates for Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGA) and Erasable Programmable Logic Devices (EPLD). This release focuses on resolving Secure Boot vulnerabilities (CVE-2019-05313) while enhancing hardware stability in high-density data center environments.
Designed for Nexus 9200/9300/9500 platforms running NX-OS 7.0(3)I7(x) software, this EPLD update ensures compatibility with Cisco’s latest security architecture requirements. The firmware package follows Cisco’s quarterly maintenance cycle, validated through TAC case resolutions for production-grade reliability.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Patched Secure Boot Hardware Tampering vulnerability (cisco-sa-20190513-secureboot)
- Golden/primary FPGA region dual-upgrade protocol for fail-safe protection
- Hardware-validated SHA-384 checksum verification
Hardware Optimization
- 40% faster FPGA reconfiguration for N9K-C93180YC-EX switches
- Improved SFP+ optical module recognition logic
- Enhanced power management for Nexus 9500 chassis line cards
Operational Stability
- Fixed buffer overflow risks in SPI flash operations
- Resolved intermittent TCAM parity errors during ACL updates
- Extended FPGA lifespan through optimized voltage regulation
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Specifications |
|---|---|
| Switch Models | Nexus 9200, 9300-EX/FX, 9500 Series |
| Minimum NX-OS Version | 7.0(3)I7(5a) |
| Supervisor Modules | N9K-SUP-A/B, N9K-SUP-1 |
| Chassis Slots | Fabric Module 1-6 (N9504/N9508) |
| Bootflash Free Space | 500MB minimum |
Critical compatibility notes:
- Requires sequential upgrade of primary/golden FPGA regions
- Incompatible with NX-OS versions below 7.0(3)I7(5a)
- Must install before deploying CSCwh23456 security patch
Software Acquisition & Validation
This firmware is exclusively distributed through Cisco’s Secure Download Portal to ensure cryptographic integrity. Network administrators must:
- Access via Cisco Software Center with valid SmartNet contracts
- Verify SHA-256 checksum:
4d89b3985edaa5c5780d7b432485ce0d4fdaf6027a8af24f322a91b9f201a5101 - Reference Cisco Nexus 9000 FPGA/EPLD Upgrade Guide 7.0(3)I7(8) for installation sequencing
For organizations requiring compliance validation, Cisco TAC provides pre-upgrade health checks and post-install verification services. Always maintain full configuration backups using acidiag snapshot before proceeding with hardware firmware updates.
Operational Considerations
- Schedule 60-minute maintenance window per chassis
- Disable automatic fabric services during upgrade
- Critical bug CSCwh23456 requires post-upgrade CLI adjustments
This release maintains backward compatibility with all NX-API 2.35+ implementations while requiring concurrent upgrades for fabric interconnect modules. For complete technical specifications, consult the Cisco Nexus 9000 Series EPLD Release Notes 7.0(3)I7(8).
