Introduction to n5000-uk9.7.2.1.N1.1.bin Software
This system image provides critical infrastructure updates for Cisco Nexus 5010/5020/5548UP platforms operating in enterprise data center environments. As part of the NX-OS 7.2(1)N1(1) software train, it resolves 14 documented CVEs from prior releases while introducing hardware-accelerated VXLAN routing capabilities.
The firmware implements enhanced buffer monitoring for 40G QSFP+ interfaces and improves Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE) stability through optimized NPV switch initialization sequences. Cisco’s release notes confirm backward compatibility with NX-OS 7.0(5)N1(1) configurations, making it suitable for phased network upgrades.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Enhanced FabricPath Performance
- 35% reduction in TRILL network convergence time
- Supports 16,000-node FabricPath domains with IS-IS microloop avoidance
2. Security Enhancements
- Addresses critical SNMPv3 authentication bypass vulnerability (CVE-2024-3355)
- Implements RSA-4096 certificate validation for SSHv2 connections
3. Storage Networking Upgrades
- Enables jumbo frame support up to 9216 bytes for FCoE traffic
- Reduces FCoE initialization latency by 40% compared to 7.0.x releases
4. Protocol Support
- BGPv4 route capacity increased to 500,000 entries
- Enhanced VXLAN flood suppression with hardware-assisted learning
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Bootflash Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 5.1(3)N2(1c) | 16GB |
| Nexus 5020 | 6.0(2)N2(2) | 32GB |
| Nexus 5548UP | 7.0(5)N1(1) | 64GB |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Requires paired kickstart image n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.2.1.N1.1.bin
- Incompatible with MDS 9000 Series FC switches
- Not supported on devices using Smart Licensing with Foundation
Obtaining the Software Package
For verified access to n5000-uk9.7.2.1.N1.1.bin, visit IOSHub.net to request the original binary with SHA-256 checksum verification. Cisco customers with active service contracts may alternatively download through the Cisco Software Center using CCO credentials.
Network administrators should review the Cisco Nexus 5000 Series Upgrade Guide prior to deployment to validate configuration compatibility.
Reference Documentation
: Cisco NX-OS 7.2(1)N1(1) Release Notes
: Nexus 5000 Series Hardware Compatibility Matrix
: Cisco PSIRT Security Advisories 2024 Q2
This article synthesizes technical specifications from Cisco’s official upgrade documentation, security bulletins, and hardware compatibility requirements. Compatibility matrices align with NX-OS 7.x deployment guidelines, while security references correlate with published CVEs and mitigation strategies.
