Introduction to n5000-uk9-kickstart.5.0.2.N2.1.bin Software
The n5000-uk9-kickstart.5.0.2.N2.1.bin is Cisco’s dedicated bootloader image for Nexus 5000 Series switches running NX-OS 5.0(2)N2(1). This kickstart firmware initializes hardware components and prepares the system for loading the main NX-OS software package. Designed for data center environments, it supports critical features like Virtual Port Channel (vPC) and Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE).
Compatible with Nexus 5010, 5020, 5548UP, and 5596UP chassis, this release targets organizations requiring stable L2/L3 switching operations. The 5.0(2)N2(1) version includes foundational support for 10GbE/40GbE port configurations and enhanced FEX (Fabric Extender) management capabilities.
Key Features and Improvements
Core System Enhancements
- Hardware initialization time reduced by 40% through optimized PCIe enumeration
- Added Secure Boot validation for BIOS/firmware components
- Extended diagnostic checks for power supply units (PSU-650W/1200W)
Protocol Support
- vPC+ compatibility with Nexus 2000 Series Fabric Extenders
- FCoE NPV (N_Port Virtualization) pre-initialization routines
- Improved IGMP snooping for multicast traffic shaping
Security Updates
- SHA-256 signature verification for system image integrity
- Removed deprecated SSLv3 handshake protocols
- Enhanced role-based access control (RBAC) during bootstrap
Hardware Optimization
- Memory allocation improvements for N5K-C5548UP-FA chassis
- QSFP+ transceiver auto-detection enhancements
- Thermal management profiles for N55xx series switches
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum DRAM | Bootflash | NX-OS Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 4GB | 8GB | 5.0(2)N1(1)+ |
| Nexus 5020 | 4GB | 8GB | 5.0(2)N1(1)+ |
| Nexus 5548UP | 8GB | 16GB | 5.0(1)N2(1)+ |
| Nexus 5596UP | 16GB | 32GB | 5.0(1)N2(1)+ |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Requires paired system image n5000-uk9.5.0.2.N2.1.bin
- Incompatible with Nexus 9000/NX-OS 7.x environments
- Must clear boot variables when upgrading from 4.x releases
For verified access to n5000-uk9-kickstart.5.0.2.N2.1.bin, visit https://www.ioshub.net and consult our technical team for MD5 validation and upgrade path guidance. Ensure compliance with Cisco’s software licensing agreements before deployment.
