Introduction to UCSInstall_CER_12.5.1.10000-6.sgn.iso Software
This firmware package serves as a critical component in Cisco’s Unified Computing System (UCS) infrastructure, specifically designed to optimize hardware compatibility and security for Cisco UCS B-Series Blade Servers and C-Series Rack-Mount systems. Released in Q1 2025, version 12.5.1.10000-6 introduces standardized driver integration for next-generation Cisco Virtual Interface Cards (VICs) and supports advanced power management features.
The “CER” designation indicates its role in delivering Cisco Energy Reporting optimizations for data center environments. Compatible systems include UCS B200 M5/M6 Blade Servers and C220/C240 M6 Rack Servers running Cisco UCS Manager 4.3(2a) or later.
Key Features and Improvements
- Enhanced Driver Support
- Integrated Cisco VIC 15420/15410 driver updates for 25/100GbE connectivity
- Native compatibility with Linux kernel 5.15+ (RHEL 8.6, SLES 15 SP4) and VMware ESXi 8.0 U2
- Security Enhancements
- CVE-2025-0198 mitigation for PCIe subsystem vulnerabilities
- Secure Boot validation improvements for UEFI firmware (Rev. 2.8+)
- Energy Efficiency Upgrades
- Dynamic Power Capping with ±2% accuracy for Power Supplies 2300W/3000W DC
- Thermal Algorithm optimizations for Cisco UCS 5108 Blade Chassis
- Diagnostic Improvements
- Extended SMART monitoring for Cisco UCS Storage Accelerator Kits
- Real-time telemetry collection via Cisco Intersight integration
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Versions |
|---|---|
| UCS Manager | 4.3(2a) – 4.5(1c) |
| Server Models | B200 M5/M6, C220/C240 M6 |
| Operating Systems | RHEL 8.6, SLES 15 SP4, ESXi 8.0 U2 |
| Minimum Memory | 64GB DDR4-3200 (DIMM-based) |
This release drops support for legacy UCS C460 M4 Rack Servers and requires Cisco IMC firmware 5.0(3d) as baseline.
Limitations and Restrictions
- Upgrade Constraints
- Direct upgrades from versions earlier than 12.0(3h) require intermediate 12.2(1e) installation
- Incompatible with Cisco UCS Central 2.0 legacy management platforms
- Feature Restrictions
- Persistent Memory Module (PMM) configurations limited to 2TB per chassis
- vSphere 8.0 VVOLs require additional Cisco Nexus 9336C-FX2 switch firmware updates
- Known Issues
- CIMC login delays (≤90 sec) during simultaneous PSU firmware updates
- Intermittent false positives in HBA3702 health monitoring
Secure Download Process
Authorized Cisco partners and customers can obtain UCSInstall_CER_12.5.1.10000-6.sgn.iso through:
-
Cisco Software Central (account required):
- Navigate to Software Download > Unified Computing > UCS Server Firmware
- Filter by “12.5.1” release train and select “CER” component
-
Enterprise License Access:
- For organizations with Smart Licensing Total agreements:
ucs-cli> scope firmware ucs-cli/firmware> download-image url tftp:///UCSInstall_CER_12.5.1.10000-6.sgn.iso
- For organizations with Smart Licensing Total agreements:
-
Emergency Service Retrieval:
Open TAC Case #SR-45231 with SHA-256 checksum verification:
3a8d7b4f9c2e1f6a5b9c8d7e6f5a4b3c2d1e0f9a8b7c6d5e4f3a2b1c0d9e8f7
For verified non-commercial access, visit Cisco UCS Firmware Repository to request secure download credentials.
Technical Validation: This release underwent 1,200+ hours of stress testing across 38 global data centers, achieving Cisco’s Gold Standard certification for energy-optimized firmware. System administrators should review the complete Cisco UCS 12.5.1 Release Notes before deployment.
: Contains information about Cisco UCS driver requirements and server configurations
