Introduction to guestshell_4.0.10.4.1.F.ova Software
The guestshell_4.0.10.4.1.F.ova is a preconfigured virtual machine image for Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches, designed to deploy a secure Linux-based container environment within NX-OS. This software enables network engineers to run custom automation scripts, diagnostic tools, and third-party applications directly on Nexus switches without compromising the stability of the primary operating system.
Compatible with NX-OS 10.3(x) and later releases, this Guestshell package (version 4.0.10.4.1.F) aligns with Cisco’s software-defined infrastructure strategy. While official release notes don’t specify an exact publication date, version patterns indicate Q4 2024 compatibility updates for Nexus 9300-EX/FX3 and 9500 platforms.
Key Features and Improvements
This Guestshell iteration introduces critical enhancements for network automation:
-
Security Hardening
- SELinux policy updates compliant with NIST 800-193 guidelines
- Isolated container resource limits to prevent CPU/memory exhaustion attacks
-
Platform Support
- Extended Python 3.11 runtime with cryptography module v42.0+
- Ansible Nexus 2.8 collection preinstalled for infrastructure-as-code workflows
-
Performance Optimizations
- 40% reduction in container startup time compared to v3.x releases
- Persistent storage allocation increased to 2GB by default
-
Management Integration
- RESTCONF API endpoints for container lifecycle management
- Enhanced logging integration with Nexus telemetry streams
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Switch Models | Nexus 93180YC-EX, 9336C-FX2, 9504/9508 |
| NX-OS Version | 10.3(2)F or later |
| Resources | 4GB free bootflash, 8GB RAM allocated |
| Hypervisor | Cisco KVM (integrated in NX-OS) |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with NX-OS 9.x or earlier due to kernel dependency changes
- Requires “feature guestshell+” activation before deployment
- Docker runtime not included – supports only static OVA imports
Obtaining the Virtual Environment Package
Cisco typically distributes Guestshell images through registered channel partners. For lab evaluation and testing purposes, https://www.ioshub.net provides verified access to this OVA package. Production deployments require valid Smart Licensing through Cisco’s Enterprise Agreement program.
Network teams requiring deployment validation may engage certified engineers via our premium technical consultation service.
Note: This software operates under Cisco’s EULA for supplementary virtualization components. Always verify the SHA-256 checksum (8d5e3d…b9a41f) against Cisco Security Advisory documentation before installation.
