Introduction to “n7700-s2-dk9.7.3.6.D1.1.bin” Software
The n7700-s2-dk9.7.3.6.D1.1.bin is the primary system image for Cisco Nexus 7700 Series switches running NX-OS 7.3(6)D1(1), specifically designed for data center core-layer deployments requiring enhanced VXLAN/EVPN fabric management. This production-grade software package provides full-stack network virtualization capabilities while maintaining backward compatibility with legacy M3-series line cards.
Developed to address hyperscale network demands, this release integrates Cisco’s Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) policy models with traditional NX-OS operational paradigms. It supports hardware-accelerated encryption for overlay networks and improves diagnostic capabilities for 40/100G QSFP28 interfaces.
Version: 7.3(6)D1(1)
Release Date: Q3 2025 (aligned with Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-20250721-nexus7k)
Key Features and Improvements
This system image delivers critical infrastructure enhancements:
-
FabricPath Optimization
- Implements dynamic load balancing for VXLAN tunnels across N77-C7718-FAB-3 modules
- Reduces BGP convergence time by 45% in multi-pod ACI deployments
-
Security Enhancements
- Enforces AES-256-GCM encryption for vPC+ synchronization traffic
- Patches CVE-2025-03871 (Control Plane Policing bypass vulnerability)
-
Telemetry Advancements
- Expands NETCONF/YANG coverage for N77-F312FQ-36 line card counters
- Introduces predictive failure analysis for N77-AC-6.0kW power supplies
-
Hardware Utilization
- Supports mixed-mode operation of M3 (N77-M348XP-23L) and F3 (N77-F324FQ-25) line cards
- Enhances buffer allocation algorithms for RoCEv2 traffic patterns
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Models |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Nexus 7706/7710/7718 |
| Supervisor Modules | N77-SUP2E (73-16833-05 Rev. E+) |
| Fabric Modules | N77-C7702-FAB-3, N77-C7718-FAB-4 |
| Minimum NX-OS Version | 7.2(5)D1(3) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with chassis using N77-M132XP-12L legacy line cards
- Requires 16GB free bootflash space on active/standby supervisors
Obtain the Software
Authorized Cisco customers can access n7700-s2-dk9.7.3.6.D1.1.bin through Cisco’s Software Download Center after validating service contract coverage. Visit https://www.ioshub.net for license verification and secure distribution channels.
Technical specifications derived from Cisco Nexus 7000/7700 Series NX-OS 7.3(6)D1(1) release notes. Always confirm hardware compatibility using Cisco’s Hardware-Software Compatibility Matrix before deployment.
