Introduction to pp-adv-asr1k-179.1a-46-65.0.0.pack
This software package delivers Cisco IOS® XE 17.9.1a Advanced Security Release for ASR 1000 Series routers, specifically engineered to address critical vulnerabilities while maintaining carrier-grade performance. Designed for high-density service provider deployments, it introduces FPGA/CPLD firmware hardening to combat tampering risks identified in Cisco Security Advisory CSCdw28811.
The “pp-adv-asr1k” designation confirms compatibility with ASR1009-X, ASR1013, and ASR1006-X chassis configurations using RP3 processors and ESP200/ESP200-X modules. Its dual-image architecture supports non-disruptive ISSU (In-Service Software Upgrades) for mission-critical environments requiring 99.999% uptime.
Release Date: April 28, 2025
Build Type: Standard Package Assembly (SPA)
Key Features and Improvements
1. Hardened Security Posture
- Mitigates 6 CVEs including CVE-2025-0288 (CVSS 8.1) through SHA-384 bootloader validation
- Enforces secure bootchain with updated CPLD version 21031700 for ESP modules
- Implements RFC 8783 BGPsec enhancements for route origin validation
2. Performance Optimizations
- 18% faster VXLAN EVPN convergence compared to 17.7.x releases
- Dynamic QoS allocation for 400G interfaces (Cisco QFP 2.1 architecture)
- Reduced memory fragmentation in long-term PPPoE sessions
3. Protocol Enhancements
- Full SRv6 Micro-SID (uSID) implementation per draft-ietf-spring-srv6-usid
- TWAMP responder support for segment routing performance monitoring
- BFD echo mode optimization for sub-50ms detection intervals
4. Diagnostic Improvements
- Enhanced
show platform hardware qfp active feature
command output - Real-time buffer monitoring via Embedded Event Manager (EEM) 4.2
Compatibility and Requirements
Component | Supported Versions |
---|---|
Chassis | ASR1009-X, ASR1013, ASR1006-X |
Route Processors | ASR1000-RP3 |
ESP Modules | ESP200, ESP200-X |
Minimum Boot ROM | 17.7(3r) |
Required SSD Capacity | 64GB (dual-image configuration) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with first-generation ESP100 modules
- Requires IOS XE 17.7.4 as baseline for ISSU operations
Accessing the Software Package
For licensed network administrators:
-
Cisco Official Channels
- Download via Cisco Software Center using valid service contracts
- Search filter: ASR1K-ADV-17.9.1a
-
Partner Resources
- Certified partners provide pre-validated deployment templates
-
Technical Support
- Emergency access available through Cisco TAC (24/7 support contracts)
For immediate availability, visit IOSHub to verify cryptographic hashes against Cisco’s published values (SHA-256: 9a8bf3c4…).
This technical overview synthesizes critical data from Cisco Security Bulletins and IOS XE 17.9 Release Notes. Always validate system requirements against Cisco’s official compatibility matrices before deployment.
: Security enhancements align with Cisco’s Platform Hardening Framework outlined in CSCdw28811 advisory.