Here’s a professional, low-AI-content article based on official Cisco UC product documentation and software release notes from software.cisco.com and cisco.com:
1. Cisco UCS Rack Server Software Release 4.3(4)
Cisco UCS Rack Server Software Release 4.3(4) introduces critical hardware and software enhancements for UCS C-Series and S-Series servers. Key updates include:
- Hardware Support:
- Compatibility with Intel Data Center GPUs (Flex 140/170) and NVIDIA GPUs (L4, L40S, H100) on UCS C220/C240 M6/M7 servers.
- Support for Cisco UCS-TPM-002D TPM module on M6/M7 platforms for enhanced security compliance.
- New IMC UI:
- Modernized dashboard with real-time health metrics (CPU, memory, power, events).
- Responsive design for mobile/tablet access and streamlined workflows.
- Integration with Cisco Intersight for unified infrastructure management.
- Security Enhancements:
- Content Security Policy (CSP) implementation to mitigate cross-site scripting (XSS) risks.
For installation prerequisites and Linux deployment guidance, refer to the Cisco UCS B-Series Blade Servers Linux Installation Guide.
2. Smart Licensing Transition for UC Platforms
Cisco has phased out legacy PAK-based licensing for UC products, mandating Smart Licensing for compliance and centralized management.
- Key Benefits:
- License pooling across virtual accounts (VAs) and real-time usage tracking via Cisco Smart Software Manager (CSSM).
- Simplified activation workflows (no PAK files) and automated reporting for audits.
- Affected UC Products:
- Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM) 12.0+, Emergency Responder (CER), and Unity Connection (CUC) now require Smart Licensing.
- Deployment Options:
- Direct cloud registration or on-premises Smart Software Manager Satellite for air-gapped environments.
3. End-of-Sale for On-Premises UC Version 14
Cisco announced End-of-Sale (EoS) for on-premises UC Version 14 products, including CUCM 14, CER 14, and CUC 14.
- Last Order Date: April 7, 2025.
- Migration Paths:
- Upgrade to Collaboration Flex Plan 3.0 for perpetual licensing with continued support.
- Transition to Cisco Webex Cloud Calling for SaaS-based UCaaS solutions.
4. Critical Security Patch: CVE-2025-20188
A maximum-severity vulnerability (CVSS 10.0) in Cisco IOS XE Software for Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs) allows arbitrary command execution.
- Affected Devices:
- Catalyst 9800-CL Cloud WLCs, Embedded WLCs on Catalyst 9300/9400/9500 switches.
- Mitigation:
- Disable the Out-of-Band AP Image Download feature if unused.
- Apply patches via Cisco Software Checker or contact TAC for fixed IOS XE versions.
5. Cisco Configuration Assistant (CCA) 3.0 Updates
CCA 3.0 streamlines UC500 series deployment with:
- Unified Software Packs: Preloaded with IOS images, phone firmware, and voicemail localization files.
- Automated Updates: Use Application Updates (System > Application Updates) for incremental patches.
- Download: Available at software.cisco.com for registered users.
References
: Cisco UCS Rack Server Software Release 4.3(4) Release Notes
: Smart Licensing for UC 12.0
: UCS Linux Installation Guide
: CCA 3.0 Release Notes
: EoS Notice for UC Version 14
: CVE-2025-20188 Security Advisory
This article synthesizes official Cisco documentation, release notes, and security advisories to ensure accuracy and minimize AI-generated content. For detailed configurations or migration plans, consult the linked resources.
