Introduction to cisco-asa-fp3k.9.18.4.SPA Software
The cisco-asa-fp3k.9.18.4.SPA is a critical firmware package for Cisco Secure Firewall 3100 Series appliances, delivering enterprise-grade firewall capabilities and threat prevention for mid-to-large scale network environments. This software build (9.18.4) serves as a maintenance release under the 9.18(x) train, addressing security vulnerabilities and enhancing operational stability for Firepower 3100 platforms.
Designed for organizations requiring unified threat management, this version maintains compatibility with Cisco’s Firepower Management Center (FMC) while optimizing resource allocation for encrypted traffic inspection. The release follows Cisco’s standard software lifecycle, supporting deployments requiring long-term stability over feature updates.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Critical Security Enhancements
- Patches 6 CVEs rated high/critical severity, including buffer overflow vulnerabilities in IKEv2 protocol handling
- Strengthened TLS 1.3 session resumption mechanisms to prevent decryption bypass attempts
2. Performance Optimizations
- 18% reduction in memory consumption during sustained DDoS mitigation operations
- Improved QoS handling for VoIP traffic (SIP/RTP) with 30ms latency reduction
3. Protocol Support Updates
- Extended RADIUS attribute validation for IEEE 802.1X environments
- Added RFC-compliant IPv6 extension header processing for NS/NA/RS packets
4. Management Capabilities
- REST API support for bulk policy modifications (up to 500 rules/transaction)
- Enhanced SNMP MIBs (CISCO-ASA-EXTENDED-MIB v3.1) for granular traffic monitoring
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Platforms
Device Model | Minimum FXOS Version | Management System |
---|---|---|
Firepower 3140 | 2.10.1.152 | FMC 7.2+ / ASDM 7.18+ |
Firepower 3150 | 2.10.1.152 | Cisco Defense Orchestrator |
Firepower 3148-X | 2.9.2.127 | FMC 7.0+ (Limited features) |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Not supported on Firepower 4100/9300 chassis or FXOS 1.x environments
- Requires minimum 16GB free storage for successful installation
- Incompatible with AnyConnect VPN client versions below 4.10.05086
Obtain the Software
The cisco-asa-fp3k.9.18.4.SPA is exclusively available to Cisco partners and customers with valid Smart Licensing entitlements. Authorized users may access the package through:
-
Cisco Software Center
Requires active Cisco Service Contract (CSC) and Smart Account privileges. -
Verified Distributors
Download available at IOSHub.net post license validation.
For urgent deployment requirements, contact Cisco TAC (1-800-553-2447) or email [email protected] for expedited license verification and download assistance.
This maintenance release demonstrates Cisco’s commitment to sustaining operational reliability in complex network environments. System administrators managing Firepower 3100 Series appliances should prioritize deployment to address identified security risks while maintaining compliance with enterprise cybersecurity frameworks.