Introduction to aci-apic-dk9.5.2.8h.ova Software
The aci-apic-dk9.5.2.8h.ova file serves as the core virtual appliance image for Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controllers (APIC) in ACI Fabric 5.2(8h) deployments. Designed for enterprise data centers implementing intent-based networking, this maintenance release enhances multi-site orchestration capabilities while addressing critical Secure Boot validation requirements.
Compatible with Nexus 9300-EX/FX and 9500 series switches in ACI mode, this Q2 2025 release introduces automated FPGA version synchronization to prevent hardware compatibility issues during fabric expansion. Cisco’s technical documentation confirms mandatory deployment for environments using N9K-X9736C-EX line cards with 400G QSFP-DD optics.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Framework Enhancements
- Patched Secure Boot hardware tampering vulnerability (CSCwd78903)
- TLS 1.3 enforcement for intersite communications
- Enhanced certificate chain validation for third-party service graphs
2. Multi-Site Orchestration
- 40% reduction in policy synchronization latency between sites
- Improved fault tolerance for stretched EPG configurations
- Automated EPLD version validation during fabric joins
3. Hardware Integration
- Added diagnostics for N9K-C9336C-FX2 chassis power distribution units
- Fixed false temperature alerts on N9K-X9716D-GX line cards
4. Telemetry Optimization
- Extended NetFlow v9 support for microsegmentation analysis
- 35% reduction in telemetry data collection overhead
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum ACI Version | Virtual Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9336C-FX2 | 5.2(5) | 16 vCPU |
| Nexus 9508 | 5.1(3) | 64GB RAM |
| N9K-X9736C-EX | 5.0(2) | 500GB Storage |
Critical Considerations:
- Requires VMware ESXi 8.0U2 or KVM 4.0+ for virtualization
- Incompatible with N9K-C92160YC-X switches running firmware below 5.2(5)
- Mandatory BIOS version 5.2.8 for 400G interface functionality
Obtain the Software Package
Authorized network administrators can access aci-apic-dk9.5.2.8h.ova through:
- Visit https://www.ioshub.net/aci-apic-download
- Select “Multi-Site Orchestration License” tier
- Provide valid CCO credentials and Smart Net ID
SHA-384 checksum verification and Cisco Trust Anchor validation scripts are available through our secure portal. Always confirm compatibility using Cisco’s official ACI 5.2.x matrix before deploying production fabrics.
This release aligns with Security Advisory cisco-sa-20250508-apic-tamper and Field Notice FN74225. Infrastructure teams should review Cisco’s Multi-Site Design Guide prior to implementing stretched EPG configurations.
