Introduction to n5000-uk9.6.0.2.N2.2.bin Software
This firmware package serves as the core operating system for Cisco Nexus 5010/5020/5548UP switches, specifically optimized for data center bridging (DCB) and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) deployments. Released in Q4 2024 as a maintenance update, version 6.0(2)N2(2) addresses critical memory leak issues identified in previous NX-OS releases while maintaining compatibility with 40G QSFP+ modules.
The software supports unified fabric architectures with enhanced virtual PortChannel (vPC) synchronization capabilities, making it ideal for organizations operating converged storage and IP networks.
Key Features and Improvements
Stability Enhancements
- Resolved persistent memory leaks in SNMP polling processes (pfstat subsystem optimization)
- 40% reduction in control plane latency during FCoE zoning operations
Protocol Support
- DCBx 2.0 interoperability with Brocade SAN switches
- vPC+ failover time improved to <200ms (from 450ms)
- FIP Snooping session capacity increased to 1,200 concurrent instances
Security Updates
- SHA-256 firmware image verification during boot sequence
- RBAC granularity expanded to 8 privilege levels
- TLS 1.2 mandatory enforcement for management plane access
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum RAM | Bootflash |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 4GB | 2GB |
| Nexus 5548UP | 16GB | 8GB |
| Nexus 5020 | 8GB | 4GB |
Critical Notes
- Requires ROMMON version 6.0(1r) or newer
- Incompatible with MDS 9000 FC switching modules
- FEX 2248TP-E must run firmware 3.1(1) or later
n5000-uk9.4.1.3.N2.1a.bin Cisco Nexus 5000 Series Switches, NX-OS Release 4.1(3)N2(1a) Download Link
Introduction to n5000-uk9.4.1.3.N2.1a.bin Software
This legacy firmware provides foundational FCoE capabilities for first-generation Nexus 5000 switches, originally released in Q3 2023 as part of Cisco’s Extended Security Maintenance cycle. Version 4.1(3)N2(1a) delivers critical CVE-2023-20198 patches while maintaining compatibility with 10G SFP+ environments.
Designed for enterprises maintaining aging SAN infrastructure, it supports interoperation with Cisco UCS 6100 Fabric Interconnects and MDS 9506 Directors.
Key Features and Improvements
Protocol Optimization
- FCoE Initialization Protocol (FIP) performance boost (800→1,200 sessions/min)
- vPC topology discovery time reduced by 35%
Security Patches
- Mitigated buffer overflow vulnerabilities in LLDP handler
- SSHv1 protocol stack permanently disabled
- RADIUS challenge-response implementation hardening
Hardware Support
- Added QLogic 2500-series CNA compatibility
- Enhanced diagnostics for QSFP-40G-SR4 optical modules
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum RAM | Bootflash |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 2GB | 1GB |
| Nexus 5020 | 4GB | 2GB |
| Nexus 5548UP | 8GB | 4GB |
Critical Notes
- Requires ROMMON version 4.0(2r) minimum
- Incompatible with FEX 2300 series fabric extenders
- DCBx protocol limited to version 1.01
Enterprise Software Access
Network administrators can obtain verified Cisco-signed binaries through iOSHub.net, featuring:
- 256-bit encrypted download channels
- Dual MD5/SHA-512 checksum verification
- Historical version archiving (2016-present)
For volume licensing or TACACS+ authenticated downloads, contact our enterprise support team via the priority service portal.
These release details align with Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-20240229-nexus and Field Notice FN71555. Always validate cryptographic hashes against Cisco’s PSIRT database before deployment.
