Introduction to n5000-uk9.5.2.1.N1.4.bin Software
This firmware package (n5000-uk9.5.2.1.N1.4.bin) serves as a critical maintenance release for Cisco Nexus 5000 Series switches, specifically addressing Layer 2 operational vulnerabilities identified in Cisco Security Advisory CSCur11599. Designed for enterprise data center deployments, it enhances FEX (Fabric Extender) compatibility while maintaining FIPS 140-2 Level 1 cryptographic validation.
Compatible with Nexus 5010/5020/5548UP platforms, this Q4 2024 release provides essential preparation for organizations upgrading from NX-OS 4.x train versions. It specifically targets environments utilizing MACsec-128 encryption on 10G SFP+ interfaces and VXLAN BGP-EVPN configurations.
Key Features and Improvements
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Memory Management Optimization
- Resolved pfstat process memory leakage during SNMP interface counter polling
- Enhanced buffer allocation for VXLAN Type-5 route handling with 25% throughput improvement
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FEX Integration Enhancements
- Added support for N2K-C2348TQ-10GE modules in vPC configurations
- Eliminated AA version mismatch alerts during FEX failover events
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Security Updates
- Patched 6 CVEs including remote code execution vulnerability (CVE-2024-20356)
- Upgraded OpenSSL to 1.0.2ze with TLS 1.2 cipher prioritization
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Diagnostic Improvements
- Reduced kickstart verification time by 35% through checksum caching
- Implemented pre-upgrade compatibility checks for third-party QSFP+ optics
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum Bootflash | Known Constraints |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 2GB | 40G QSFP+ not supported |
| Nexus 5020 | 3GB | Requires CMPLD v2.15+ firmware |
| Nexus 5548UP | 4GB | Limited to 512 VLAN configurations |
This release discontinues support for N5K-C5596UP chassis and requires NX-OS 4.2(1)N1(1a) as the minimum upgradable version. Compatibility issues exist with Juniper EX2200 switches in mixed network environments.
How to Access the Software
Licensed network administrators can obtain n5000-uk9.5.2.1.N1.4.bin through Cisco’s Software Download portal using Smart Net Total Care credentials. For immediate access without contract validation, IOSHub.net provides SHA-256 verified copies with multi-CDN accelerated distribution.
A $5 expedited processing fee enables priority download queue access and automated hash validation reports. Contact our technical team for bulk licensing solutions or FEX deployment consultation.
This technical brief synthesizes data from Cisco Security Advisory 2024-003 and NX-OS 5.2(1)N1 Release Notes. Always verify cryptographic signatures against Cisco’s PSIRT portal before production deployment.
