Introduction to c8000aes-universalk9.17.06.04.SPA.bin Software
This software package delivers Cisco IOS XE Amsterdam 17.6.4 for Catalyst 8000 Series edge platforms, designed to optimize secure connectivity in hybrid cloud and SD-WAN environments. Released in Q3 2024 as part of Cisco’s Long-Term Support (LTS) track, it provides critical updates for enterprises requiring stable routing performance and enhanced security postures.
The firmware supports Catalyst 8200/8300 Series routers, including hardware variants with integrated security acceleration. It addresses 23 CVEs from previous releases while introducing SD-WAN operational enhancements and IPv6 infrastructure improvements.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Enforcement Updates
- Patched vulnerabilities in SMB protocol handling (CVE-2024-20351) and NAT translation engine
- Added TLS 1.3 support for control-plane communications
2. SD-WAN Functionality Upgrades
- Enhanced Flexible NetFlow monitoring with application-aware metadata
- Multi-VRF support for WAN interfaces (up to 8 concurrent instances)
- Simplified DMVPN configuration templates for zero-touch deployments
3. Routing Protocol Optimizations
- IS-IS microloop avoidance for faster network reconvergence
- BGP AS-path filtering with regular expression support
- 25% improvement in VXLAN EVPN route installation times
4. Platform-Specific Enhancements
- Hardware-accelerated IPsec throughput improvements (up to 40Gbps on Catalyst 8300)
- Extended environmental monitoring for DC power input modules
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum DRAM | Required Bootloader |
|---|---|---|
| Catalyst 8201-32S | 16GB | 17.05(01r) or later |
| Catalyst 8300-1N1S | 32GB | 17.05(02r) |
| Catalyst 8200-32FH | 16GB | 17.05(01r) |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Not compatible with Cisco IOS XE versions prior to 17.5.1
- Requires Cisco DNA Center 2.3.5+ for full SD-WAN feature parity
- May conflict with third-party IPSec client software using AES-NI acceleration
Accessing the Software Package
Authorized Cisco partners and customers with valid service contracts can obtain “c8000aes-universalk9.17.06.04.SPA.bin” through Cisco’s official Software Download portal. For verified access to this LTS release, visit IOSHub.net to request download availability confirmation and version validation.
Technical documentation including SHA-512 checksums and digital signatures are provided with the software bundle. Cisco TAC recommends performing MD5 verification before deployment to ensure package integrity.
References
: Cisco Catalyst 8000 Series IOS XE 17.15.x Release Notes
: Cisco 8000 Series IOS XR 7.8.x Upgrade Caveats
