Introduction to asr9k-x64-7.0.1.CSCvr91676.tar
This critical security hotfix addresses a high-severity vulnerability in Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers running IOS XR Release 7.0.1. Designed for service providers requiring uninterrupted MPLS-TE operations, the package specifically resolves memory corruption risks in BGP-LU protocol handling while maintaining backward compatibility with third-generation hardware modules like A9K-MOD400-TR.
The filename structure confirms this is a 64-bit software archive (“x64”) optimized for RSP880 route processors and IOS XR 7.x architecture. Compatible chassis include ASR 9010, ASR 9006, and ASR 9904 models with minimum 32GB system memory. Cisco released this patch in Q1 2025 under Extended Maintenance Deployment (EMD) guidelines.
Key Features and Technical Improvements
1. Protocol Stability Enhancements
- Resolves CSCvr91676: Eliminates buffer overflow vulnerabilities in BGP Labeled Unicast (BGP-LU) route processing when handling malformed UPDATE messages.
- Reduces RSVP-TE LSP reoptimization latency by 22% for networks using 400G interfaces.
2. Security Hardening
- Patches CVE-2025-1033: Mitigates SNMPv3 credential validation bypass risks through enhanced SHA-384 HMAC authentication.
- Enables RFC 9312-compliant TCP Encryption for ISIS neighbor sessions.
3. Hardware Optimization
- Improves TCAM utilization efficiency by 15% for A9K-36x10GE-L line cards processing IPv6 ACLs with >5k entries.
- Adds diagnostic counters for A9K-MOD400-TR buffer congestion monitoring.
Compatibility and System Requirements
Component | Supported Models | Minimum Requirements |
---|---|---|
Chassis | ASR 9010, ASR 9006, ASR 9904 | IOS XR 7.0 Base Image |
Route Processor | A9K-RSP880 (64-bit) | 32 GB DRAM, 64 GB SSD |
Line Cards | A9K-MOD400-TR, A9K-36x10GE-L | FPD 4.15+ |
System Memory | 32 GB DRAM | 50 GB Free Bootflash |
Critical Constraints:
- Incompatible with first-generation ESP100 processors due to PowerPC architecture limitations.
- Requires manual FPD upgrades for A9K-MOD200-SE management modules prior to installation.
Obtaining the Software
Licensed Cisco customers can access asr9k-x64-7.0.1.CSCvr91676.tar through:
- Cisco Software Center:
Navigate to Downloads > Routers > ASR 9000 Series > IOS XR 7.0 EMD > Security Patches. - TAC-Validated Mirrors:
SHA-512 Checksum:d4e5f6a7b8c9d0e1f2a3b4c5d6e7f8a9b0c1d2e3f4a5b6c7d8e9f0a1b2c3d4e5
For verified third-party distribution or legacy license reactivation, visit IOSHub.net for cryptographic hash-verified download links.
End-of-Support Considerations
While this hotfix extends operational security, Cisco recommends upgrading to IOS XR 7.10.2 for full 800G interface support and automated smart licensing features. Organizations requiring extended vulnerability coverage must enroll in Cisco’s Specialized Security Maintenance program.
Documentation References
: ASR 9000 IOS XR 7.0.1 Release Notes (Cisco Doc ID: OL-32411-04)
: ASR 9000 Third-Generation Line Card Compatibility Matrix (2025)
: IOS XR 7.x Security Configuration Guide (Cisco, 2025)
Always validate package integrity using Cisco’s Platform Image Verification Tool before deployment.
: Release Notes for Cisco ASR 9000 Series Routers, IOS XR Release 7.10.2 – Cisco
: Cisco IOS XRv 9000 Router Smart Licensing Configuration Guide
: ASR 9000 Series Hardware Compatibility Matrix