Introduction to aci-apic-dk9.6.0.8f.iso Software
The aci-apic-dk9.6.0.8f.iso file contains the Cisco Application Policy Infrastructure Controller (APIC) software version 6.0(8f), released on December 4, 2024. This critical component manages Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) fabric – an SDN solution for data center automation. The APIC serves as the centralized management plane for ACI deployments, enabling policy-driven automation of network resources across physical and virtual environments.
Compatible with Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches in ACI mode, this release focuses on enhanced security protocols and operational simplification. The 6.0(8f) version is designated as a recommended stable release by Cisco for production deployments, offering long-term support for enterprise networks requiring predictable upgrade cycles.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements:
- Dynamic Diffie-Hellman parameter negotiation during fabric communication handshakes
- ECC certificate support for HTTPS access alongside traditional RSA
- Expanded security erase functionality for Nexus 9000 switches
Operational Improvements:
- Simplified APIC cluster initialization via GUI-based bringup workflow
- Enhanced switch configuration visibility with dedicated GUI page
- Automatic deployment of correct 32/64-bit images during upgrades
Protocol Support:
- Weight-based symmetric Policy-Based Redirect (PBR)
- BGP AS-path manipulation capabilities
- Improved PTP G.8275.1 support on vPC links
Stability Fixes:
- Resolved memory leak in multi-tenant scenarios
- Fixed intermittent authentication failures with SAML/OAuth2
- Addressed packet loss during spine switch maintenance mode transitions
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware:
| Switch Series | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Nexus 9300 | N9K-C9316D-GX, N9K-C9336C-FX2, N9K-C93240YC-FX2 |
| Nexus 9500 | N9K-C9504-FM-G, N9K-C9516-FM-E, N9K-C9536PQ |
| Nexus 9200 | N9K-C92160YC-X, N9K-C92300YC |
System Requirements:
- Minimum 3 APIC controllers for production clusters
- 64GB RAM per APIC node
- 500GB SSD storage minimum
- Cisco UCS C220/C240 M4/M5 servers recommended
Compatibility Notes:
- Requires Nexus 9000 switches running 16.0(8f) firmware
- Incompatible with APIC clusters below version 5.2(4d)
- ECDSA certificates not backward-compatible with pre-6.0 releases
Accessing the Software:
For verified download of aci-apic-dk9.6.0.8f.iso, visit https://www.ioshub.net. Our platform provides direct access to Cisco-approved software packages with MD5 verification to ensure file integrity.
Technical support and licensing inquiries can be addressed through our service portal. Enterprise customers requiring bulk licensing or customized deployment assistance should contact our certified network engineers for consultation.
Note: Always verify checksums against Cisco’s official release notes before deployment. Maintain proper backup procedures when upgrading production environments.
