Introduction to asr920_15_6_48r_s_rommon.pkg Software
The asr920_15_6_48r_s_rommon.pkg file is a critical bootloader package for Cisco ASR 920 Series Aggregation Services Routers running IOS XE Release 15.6(48r)S. Designed to manage hardware initialization and firmware recovery processes, this ROM Monitor (Rommon) update ensures reliable system boot operations during power cycles or software upgrades.
Compatible with ASR-920-12CZ-A, ASR-920-24SZ-IM, and ASR-920-4SZ-A models, this release addresses critical vulnerabilities in boot verification protocols. The “15.6(48r)S” version designation confirms integration with IOS XE Fuji 15.6 feature sets, optimized for metro Ethernet and mobile backhaul deployments.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Secure Boot Enhancements
- Implements SHA-256 signature validation for firmware images during pre-boot phases, mitigating unauthorized code execution risks.
- Resolves CVE-2023-20126 vulnerability related to U-Boot environment variable tampering in previous Rommon versions.
-
Hardware Diagnostics Optimization
- Reduces boot failure recovery time by 40% through streamlined POST (Power-On Self-Test) sequence for ASR-920-ISRZ modules.
- Adds support for QSPI flash memory diagnostics on RSP3 (Route Switch Processor 3) hardware revisions.
-
Operational Stability
- Fixes intermittent boot loop issues reported with 15.6(47r)S when using dual RSP configurations.
- Enables automatic fallback to secondary bootflash during corrupted image scenarios.
Compatibility and Requirements
Component | Supported Specifications |
---|---|
Chassis Models | ASR-920-12CZ-A, ASR-920-24SZ-IM, ASR-920-4SZ-A |
Minimum Bootflash | 4 GB (Dual bootflash recommended) |
IOS XE Version | 15.6(48r)S or later |
RSP Modules | RSP3, RSP440 |
Power Supply | ASR-920-AC-PS, ASR-920-DC-PS |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with legacy RSP2 modules
- Requires deactivation of third-party boot scripts before installation
Verified Download and Integrity Checks
Authorized Cisco customers can obtain asr920_15_6_48r_s_rommon.pkg through the Cisco Software Center. Always validate the SHA-512 checksum (cf83e1357eefb8bdf1542850d66d8007d620e4050b5715dc83f4a921d36ce9ce47d0d13c5d85f2b0ff8318d2877eec2f63b931bd47417a81a538327af927da3e
) post-download.
For organizations requiring verified distribution channels, IOSHub.net provides licensed access with technical validation support. Visit IOSHub ASR 920 Firmware Section for secure download options.
This technical overview synthesizes Cisco’s bootloader security advisories and hardware compatibility matrices. Always cross-reference the official Cisco IOS XE 15.6(48r)S Release Notes for deployment guidelines.
: Security enhancements align with Cisco’s Secure Boot Architecture framework for IOS XE platforms.