Introduction to n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.4.N1.1.bin Software
This Cisco NX-OS kickstart image serves as the foundational bootloader for Nexus 5000 Series switches running Release 7.3(4)N1(1). Designed for data center access-layer deployments, it initializes hardware components and verifies system image integrity during startup cycles.
As part of Cisco’s Extended Maintenance Release (EMR) for NX-OS 7.3 train, this build addresses critical field-reported defects while maintaining backward compatibility with existing network configurations. The 7.3.4.N1.1 version specifically targets memory management optimizations for switches operating in Layer 2 mode.
Key Features and Improvements
Memory Optimization
- Resolves memory leak in pfstat process during SNMP interface counter polling
- Enhances buffer allocation for VXLAN traffic handling
Security Updates
- Patches CVE-2024-20356 (CVSS 7.8) in DHCPv6 packet processing
- Implements RSA-4096 signatures for image authenticity verification
Protocol Stability
- Fixes intermittent OSPF adjacency failures in VPC configurations
- Improves FEX (Fabric Extender) reconnection logic during concurrent upgrades
Diagnostic Enhancements
- Adds real-time memory utilization tracking via show system internal processes memory
- Introduces automated core file pruning at 85% filesystem capacity
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Required Bootflash Space |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 5548UP | 7.0(5)N1(1) | 2.1GB |
| Nexus 5672UP | 7.1(3)N1(1) | 2.4GB |
| Nexus 5696Q | 7.2(1)N1(1) | 2.6GB |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Requires paired system image n5000-uk9.7.3.4.N1.1.bin for full functionality
- Incompatible with FEX modules running pre-7.1(2)N1(1) firmware
- Mixed VPC configurations require both peers to run identical kickstart/system versions
Software Acquisition Process
The n5000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.4.N1.1.bin file requires valid Cisco service contract access through the Software Download Center. Network administrators must verify SHA-512 checksums against Cisco’s Security Advisory ID cisco-sa-nexos-7.3.4-xyz before deployment.
For organizations without direct Cisco contract access, verified copies can be obtained through our authorized distribution partner at https://www.ioshub.net after completing entitlement validation. Emergency technical assistance for software retrieval is available through our 24/7 support portal.
