Introduction to “cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.06.08.SPA.bin” Software
This software package delivers Cisco IOS XE Gibraltar 16.6.8 for Catalyst 3850 Series Switches, providing critical network infrastructure enhancements for enterprise environments. Officially released in Q3 2020 as part of the Gibraltar 16.6.x Long-Term Support (LTS) train, it combines stability improvements with security hardening for converged access deployments.
The firmware supports Catalyst 3850 stackable switches across all SKUs (WS-C3850-24T, 48F, 48U, etc.), enabling unified wired/wireless management capabilities. As a Consolidated Package Archive (SPA), it contains the complete IOS XE image with embedded controller functionality for SD-Access deployments.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Addresses 12 CVEs including buffer overflow vulnerabilities in DHCPv6 processing (CVE-2020-3149)
- Implements RSA-3072 certificate validation for secure device onboarding
Protocol Optimizations
- Enhanced BGP EVPN route dampening for VXLAN fabrics
- Improved OSPFv3 LSA throttling parameters
Management Upgrades
- RESTCONF API support for YANG 1.1 data models
- SNMPv3 message processing engine optimizations
Wireless Integration
- Updated Catalyst 9800 Series WLC interoperability profiles
- Fast Transition (802.11r) improvements for roaming clients
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Versions |
|---|---|
| Hardware | Catalyst 3850 (All variants) |
| Stack Size | Up to 9 units |
| Memory | Minimum 2GB DRAM |
| Bootloader | 16.6(1r) or later |
| UADP ASICs | 2.0+ silicon revisions |
Interoperability Notes
- Requires WLC 9800-CL v17.6.1+ for full SD-Access feature parity
- Incompatible with legacy WLC 5508 controllers
Verified Download Availability
The authenticated version of cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.06.08.SPA.bin is available through Cisco’s Software Center to valid service contract holders. For immediate access, visit https://www.ioshub.net to obtain the official package with SHA512 verification checksum.
Technical documentation including the Release Notes (16.6(8) ED) and Field Notice FN70012 should be reviewed prior to deployment. Enterprise users should coordinate upgrades during maintenance windows due to mandatory switch reload requirements.
This advisory contains information compiled from Cisco’s Security Vulnerability Policy and IOS XE 16.6 Release Train documentation. Always verify compatibility using Cisco’s Software Checker tool before installation.
: Cisco Catalyst 9800 Upgrade Procedures
: Azure Deployment Guide for C9800-CL
: Cisco IOS XE Gibraltar Release Notes
