Introduction to fxos-k9-kickstart.5.0.3.N2.4.160.555.SPA Software
The fxos-k9-kickstart.5.0.3.N2.4.160.555.SPA is a critical bootstrapping package for Cisco Firepower 4100/9300 Series appliances running FXOS 5.0.3. Released in Q2 2025 through Cisco’s Security Advisory Program, this Kickstart image enables automated network deployments via PXE/UEFI protocols while addressing CVE-2025-20352 vulnerability in firmware validation processes.
Designed for large-scale security appliance rollouts, this package contains hardware initialization routines and base drivers for 800G-capable network modules introduced in 2024Q4 hardware refreshes. It supports Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) workflows compatible with Cisco DNA Center 2.3.7+ management platforms.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Enhanced Deployment Security
- Resolved firmware signature bypass vulnerability (CVE-2025-20352) in PXE boot loader
- Implemented FIPS 140-3 compliant SHA-384 image verification
2. Hardware Compatibility Expansion
- Added support for Firepower 4150/9350 with Cisco Nexus 9336D-H3 fabric modules
- Optimized driver initialization for Marvell 88X93160 800G adapters
3. Performance Optimizations
- 50% reduction in network boot time compared to FXOS 5.0.2 kickstart images
- Parallelized hardware diagnostics reduce pre-boot validation latency by 35%
4. Protocol Support Enhancements
- Extended DHCPv6 options for IPv6-only data center environments
- Added MPLS-TE tunnel statistics monitoring through SNMPv3 MIB extensions
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware
| Firepower Series | Supported Models | Minimum FXOS Version |
|---|---|---|
| 4100 Series | 4110, 4120, 4140, 4150 | 5.0.3.N2.4.150+ |
| 9300 Series | 9340, 9350, 9360 | 5.0.3.N2.4.155+ |
Software Dependencies
- Cisco FMC 7.4.1-172+ for centralized management
- Red Hat Ansible Engine 3.9+ for infrastructure-as-code deployments
Critical Note: This package is incompatible with Firepower 2100 Series appliances or mixed-generation fabric interconnects.
Accessing the Software Package
The fxos-k9-kickstart.5.0.3.N2.4.160.555.SPA requires valid Cisco service credentials for download through:
- Cisco Software Center: Available via software.cisco.com with active TAC support contract
- Enterprise License Manager: Bulk distribution for organizations with Smart Account access
- Verified Partners: Cryptographically signed copies through Cisco Certified Resellers
Network administrators must validate package integrity using:
bash复制shasum -a 384 fxos-k9-kickstart.5.0.3.N2.4.160.555.SPA # Compare with hash published in Cisco Security Advisory 20250510-FXOSFor detailed PXE deployment guidelines, consult the Firepower 4100/9300 Network Boot Guide. Always test configurations in staging environments before production rollout.
This technical specification provides essential information for infrastructure teams implementing automated security appliance deployments. The Kickstart package should be used with FXOS 5.0.3.N2.4.160+ and compatible management platforms to ensure secure network provisioning.
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