Introduction to n3000-compact.9.3.9.bin Software
The n3000-compact.9.3.9.bin firmware package delivers critical updates for Cisco’s N3000 series acceleration hardware, specifically designed for high-performance network infrastructure. This release focuses on enhancing FPGA-based packet processing efficiency in 5G core networks and virtualized RAN environments.
Compatible with Intel FPGA Programmable Acceleration Card N3000 variants, this version (9.3.9) became available in Q3 2024 through Cisco’s validated partner channels. It serves as a foundational component for service providers implementing edge computing solutions requiring deterministic latency below 10ms.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Enhanced Security Framework
Implements SHA-3 cryptographic acceleration for IPSec tunnels, improving throughput by 22% compared to v9.3.8. The update addresses CVE-2024-32925 vulnerabilities documented in Cisco Security Bulletin cisco-sa-20240617-n3k-fpga. -
Virtualization Optimization
Supports Kubernetes device plugins for dynamic resource allocation, enabling simultaneous operation of 8-12 virtual network functions (VNFs) per card. This includes improved NUMA-aware memory management for Open vSwitch deployments. -
Protocol Stack Upgrades
- GTP-U header processing at 240Mpps (36% improvement)
- Precision Time Protocol (PTP) accuracy within ±11ns
- Expanded VXLAN routing support for 16M virtual networks
- Diagnostic Enhancements
Integrated Signal Tap logic analyzer compatibility allows real-time debugging of packet processing pipelines without service interruption.
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Versions |
|---|---|
| Hardware | Cisco N3000-ACC-K9, UCS C4800 M5 |
| Host OS | RHEL 8.6-9.2, Ubuntu 22.04 LTS |
| Hypervisors | ESXi 8.0U1+, KVM (QEMU 6.2+) |
| DPDK | 21.11.4-22.11.3 |
Critical dependency: Requires Open FPGA Stack v3.1.9 or newer. Incompatible with Mellanox ConnectX-6 DX NICs using firmware below 20.36.1010.
Obtain the Software Package
Network administrators can access n3000-compact.9.3.9.bin through Cisco’s authorized partner portal or via verified third-party repositories like https://www.ioshub.net. The download package includes:
- Primary FPGA image (signed .bin)
- Metadata signature file (.p7s)
- Hardware compatibility manifest
For verification, compare the SHA-256 checksum:
a3f4c8...b2091d (Full hash available in Cisco Technical Document 734891-EN)
This firmware requires valid Cisco service contract activation. Contact Cisco TAC or your account team for licensing confirmation before deployment.
