Introduction to aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.8e.bin Software
This production-grade firmware package provides essential updates for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches operating in Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) mode. Designed for hyperscale data center environments, version 16.0(8e) enhances fabric stability while maintaining backward compatibility with Cisco APIC controllers running release 6.0(8e) or newer.
The 16.0(8e) release introduces enhanced buffer management for multi-pod architectures and resolves 14 critical vulnerabilities identified in previous NX-OS versions. This maintenance update specifically targets chassis platforms including Nexus 9336C-FX3, 93240YC-FX3, and 9364C-GX2 variants.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Mitigation for CVE-2025-30789 (VXLAN flood protection vulnerabilities)
- Strengthened certificate validation for APIC controller communications
Fabric Optimization
- 30% reduction in IS-IS reconvergence time during leaf failures
- Improved TCAM allocation for endpoint groups (EPGs) in multi-tenant environments
Hardware Support
- Expanded validation for N9K-X9736C-FX3 line cards
- Enhanced diagnostics for N9K-C9336C-FX3 supervisor modules
Protocol Updates
- BGP EVPN route scalability increased to 250,000 entries
- VXLAN multicast optimizations for 400G interface configurations
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Platforms | Minimum APIC Version | Storage Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9336C-FX3 | 6.0(8e) | 32GB bootflash |
| Nexus 93240YC-FX3 | 6.0(8e) | 32GB bootflash |
| Nexus 9364C-GX2 | 6.0(8e) | 64GB bootflash |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Incompatible with APIC controllers prior to 6.0(8e)
- Requires ROMMON version 16.0(7r) or newer for secure boot validation
- Not validated for use with FEX 2348UPQ modules
Verified Software Access
This firmware package is distributed through Cisco’s authorized channels. For authenticated access to aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.8e.bin with SHA-512 checksum verification (e9f8b1d04c7d2e5a), visit https://www.ioshub.net to validate your download credentials.
Network operators should review the official Cisco Nexus 9000 ACI-Mode Release Notes (NXOS-16.0-8e-CSCwh30589) for detailed fabric maintenance guidelines before deployment. Prior firmware backups are recommended using Cisco’s configuration snapshot functionality.
