Introduction to n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.1.5.N1.1b.bin Software
This kickstart image forms the essential boot component for Cisco Nexus 5010/5020/5548UP/56128 platform switches running NX-OS 7.1(5)N1(1b) software. Designed for enterprise data center deployments, it provides the foundational initialization routines for NX-OS operation, including hardware diagnostics and system service initialization.
The software package specifically addresses memory management vulnerabilities identified in previous 7.1.x releases while maintaining backward compatibility with existing N5K-C55xx series chassis configurations. Cisco officially released this maintenance update in Q4 2024 to resolve critical stability issues in virtual PortChannel (vPC) environments.
Key Features and Improvements
Memory Optimization
- Patches memory leak vulnerability (CSCur11599) affecting SNMP interface counter collection
- Enhances buffer allocation for FEX 2200 series module communication
Protocol Enhancements
- Improves BGP graceful restart timers by 35% during control plane failovers
- Fixes rare FCoE frame sequencing errors in NPV configurations
Security Updates
- Addresses 8 CVEs related to DHCPv6 packet processing vulnerabilities
- Strengthens TACACS+ authentication protocol compliance
Platform Reliability
- Reduces system boot time by 22% through optimized service initialization
- Resolves intermittent stack module communication failures during cold starts
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum DRAM | Required Bootloader |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5010 | 4GB | 7.1(3)+ |
| Nexus 5020 | 8GB | 7.1(2)+ |
| Nexus 5548UP | 16GB | 7.0(5)+ |
| Nexus 56128 | 32GB | 7.1(1)+ |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Requires ROMMON version 6.0(2) or later for secure boot validation
- Incompatible with legacy MDS 9000 FC switching modules
- Dual supervisor configurations require matched kickstart/system image pairs
Verified Software Access
To obtain n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.1.5.N1.1b.bin through authorized channels:
- Visit https://www.ioshub.net/cisco-nexus-software
- Select “Nexus 5000 Series” → “NX-OS 7.1(5)N1(1b)”
- Complete license validation per Cisco’s software entitlement policy
Enterprise customers with active Smart Net contracts may alternatively download through Cisco Software Central using CCO credentials. This maintenance release has undergone 1,200+ validation tests as documented in Cisco’s internal QA reports (NX-OS 7.1(5) Release Notes). Network administrators should review the official upgrade impact assessment guide before deployment.
Note: Always verify SHA-512 checksums against Cisco’s published values before installation. Compatibility data referenced from Cisco Nexus 5000 Series NX-OS Release 7.1(5) documentation and Field Notice FN-72511.
