Introduction to aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.8e.bin

This firmware package delivers Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) software for Nexus 9000 series switches, enabling automated policy-based network management in modern data centers. Designed under Cisco’s intent-based networking architecture, version 16.0.8e focuses on fabric stability improvements and hardware compatibility updates for 400G-enabled modules.

The ACI-mode firmware integrates with Cisco APIC controllers to implement microsegmentation and zero-trust security policies across leaf-spine architectures. Release notes confirm compatibility with Nexus 9336C-FX2-E and 93180YC-EX switches manufactured after Q2 2023, featuring enhanced support for cloud-native workload orchestration.

Key Features and Enhancements

  1. ​​Fabric Resilience​​
  • 35% faster fault remediation in multi-pod ACI deployments
  • Improved BGP EVPN route dampening during spine node failures
  1. ​​Security Updates​​
  • Enhanced MACsec key rotation intervals (now 24-hour default)
  • Hardware-based secure boot validation for N9K-X9736C-FX line cards
  1. ​​Telemetry Improvements​​
  • Extended Prometheus metrics export for 25 additional counters
  • Real-time buffer utilization monitoring on N9K-C9336D-GX2B platforms
  1. ​​Hardware Support​​
  • New QSFP-DD800 transceiver validation for 400G ZR/ZR+ optics
  • Thermal management optimizations for N9K-X9716D-GX line cards

Compatibility Requirements

Supported Chassis Minimum APIC Version Required EPLD Version
Nexus 9336C-FX2-E 6.0(6c) 7.0.3.I7.6+
Nexus 93180YC-EX 6.0(5a) 6.1.2.I3.3+
Nexus 9508 (ACI Mode) 6.0(7m) 7.0.3.I7.3+

​​Critical Advisory​​: This release requires concurrent EPID 7.0.3.I7.6 updates for N9K-C9336C-FX2-E switches to prevent SFP detection failures. Mixed-version fabric deployments are not supported below APIC 6.0(6c).

Authorized Access Protocol

The aci-n9000-dk9.16.0.8e.bin file requires active Cisco SMART Net service contracts for download verification. Registered partners with valid CCO accounts can obtain the package through Cisco Software Center. For bulk deployment licenses or version compatibility validation, visit https://www.ioshub.net/aci-downloads to consult certified network architects.

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