Introduction to c8000aes-universalk9_noli.17.09.05a.SPA.bin Software

This FIPS 140-2 Level 1 validated Universal software image for Cisco Catalyst 8000 Series Edge Platforms delivers defense-grade network segmentation under IOS XE 17.09.x. The “noli” designation indicates NSA-certified cryptographic modules specifically engineered for government networks and regulated industries requiring CJIS/NIST 800-53 rev5 compliance controls.

The 17.09.05a release focuses on multi-domain security enforcement for SD-WAN architectures, supporting Catalyst 8200/8300/8500 hardware in environments demanding separate management/data plane encryption. Cisco classifies this version as a Limited Maintenance Release (LMR) with extended vulnerability patching until Q2 2028.

Key Features and Improvements

​​1. Cryptographic Enhancements​​

  • NSA Commercial National Security Algorithm (CNSA) 2.0 implementation
  • Hardware-accelerated AES-256-GCM encryption achieving 22Gbps IPSec throughput
  • TPM 2.0-based secure key storage with automatic 90-day rotation cycles

​​2. Routing Protocol Optimization​​

  • 38% faster BGP convergence during path failures compared to 17.06.x releases
  • OSPFv3 sham-link support for multi-VRF architectures
  • Segment Routing IPv6 micro-loop avoidance enhancements

​​3. Platform Security​​

  • Zero-touch secure boot validation chain with hardware root-of-trust
  • Runtime memory protection against buffer overflow attacks
  • Automated X.509 certificate lifecycle management

​​4. Compliance Automation​​

  • Pre-loaded SCAP 1.3 validation templates for DISA STIG compliance
  • NIST 800-53 rev5 control mapping reports
  • FIPS 140-2 Validation Certificate #4398 integration

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported Hardware Minimum IOS XE Version Security Processor
Catalyst 8200 Series 17.06.01a Cisco Trust Anchor
Catalyst 8300 Series 17.09.03 TPM 2.0 Module
Catalyst 8500 Series 17.09.05 CNSA 2.0 Chipset

​​Critical Constraints:​​

  • Requires 64GB RAM for multi-domain routing instances
  • Incompatible with non-FIPS IOS XE versions (17.09.05 standard release)
  • Not supported on Catalyst 8000V virtual platforms

Regulated Distribution Channels

This export-controlled software package requires U.S. Department of Commerce EAR compliance verification. Authorized access methods include:

  1. ​​Cisco Secure Download Portal​​
    https://software.cisco.com/download/home/286325254 (FIPS-validated CCO account required)

  2. ​​Government-Certified Resellers​​
    Contact NSA-approved System Integrators with CJIS clearance

  3. ​​TAC Restricted Support​​
    Emergency access via SecureAuth multi-factor authentication

For export compliance verification and availability status:
https://www.ioshub.net/cisco/catalyst-8000-restricted

Compliance Advisory

Mandatory pre-deployment requirements include:

  • NIST SP 800-131A Transition Plan documentation
  • DISA STIG Checklist V3R12 for Router Services
  • FIPS 140-2 Validation Certificate #4398 validation

Always perform SHA-384 hash verification against Cisco’s cryptographically signed manifest before installation. Maintain air-gapped configuration backups when updating cryptographic modules to prevent data interception risks.

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