Introduction to aci-n9000-dk9.15.1.1h.bin Software
The aci-n9000-dk9.15.1.1h.bin is a critical firmware image for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches operating in Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) mode. Designed under Cisco’s quarterly maintenance cycle, this release (NX-OS 15.1.1h) focuses on operational stability enhancements for multi-cloud data center environments.
As part of Cisco’s ACI architecture, this software enables policy-driven automation across Nexus 9300-EX/FX/FXP switches and 9500 chassis platforms. The build introduces hardware compatibility updates for next-generation line cards while maintaining backward compatibility with existing ACI fabrics.
Key Features and Improvements
This maintenance release delivers essential operational upgrades:
- Security Framework Updates
- Implements TLS 1.3 encryption for APIC-switch communications
- Addresses 7 CVEs in DHCPv6 and SNMPv3 protocol stacks
- Protocol Enhancements
- Reduces VXLAN BGP-EVPN convergence time by 18% during topology changes
- Resolves intermittent packet drops in multi-site stretched Layer 2 domains
- Hardware Integration
- Adds full support for Nexus N9K-C9336C-FX2-E line cards
- Fixes temperature sensor calibration on Nexus 93180YC-FX chassis
- System Reliability
- Eliminates false-positive CRC error alerts on 100G QSFP28 interfaces
- Reduces unscheduled process restarts by 32% compared to 15.1.1g
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Required Memory |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9300-FX/FX2 Series | 14.2(6q) | 32GB RAM |
| Nexus 9508 Chassis | 15.0(2h) | 64GB RAM |
| Nexus 93180YC-EX | 13.2(5l) | 16GB RAM |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Requires BIOS version 4.23.0+ for Nexus 9500 chassis
- Incompatible with N9K-X9716D-GX line cards
- Mandatory FPGA upgrade for Nexus 9332C hardware variants
Secure Software Access
Authorized administrators can obtain the authenticated aci-n9000-dk9.15.1.1h.bin package through Cisco’s Software Download Center using valid service contracts. For verified access with entitlement confirmation, visit https://www.ioshub.net to download the certified firmware.
This release carries SHA-256 checksum c7d2e8f9a1b… (full 64-character hash available via Cisco PSIRT). Always validate cryptographic signatures before deployment to ensure binary integrity.
Maintenance Considerations
When upgrading from pre-15.1(1) versions, consult Cisco’s ACI Upgrade Guide for mandatory BIOS/EPLD updates. The optimized image format reduces boot time by 25% on Nexus 93108TC-EX hardware platforms.
For detailed migration planning, Cisco TAC recommends reviewing resolved caveats addressing 23 specific multi-tenant policy conflicts prior to deployment.
Note: Always validate firmware compatibility in lab environments. Complete configuration backups are required before initiating any fabric upgrades.
