Introduction to n6000-uk9-kickstart.7.1.5.N1.1b.bin Software
This kickstart image serves as the foundational bootloader for Cisco Nexus 6000 Series switches running NX-OS Release 7.1(5)N1(1b). Designed for deployment automation in enterprise data centers, it initializes hardware components and prepares the system for the primary NX-OS software image.
Compatible with Nexus 6004/6001 chassis configurations, this version (7.1.5.N1.1b) addresses critical boot optimization requirements for environments using Unified Fabric architectures. The software package follows Cisco’s quarterly maintenance cycle, offering extended support for deployments requiring long-term stability.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Secure Boot Validation
Implements SHA-512 signature verification for kernel modules during pre-boot sequences, preventing unauthorized code execution. -
Hardware Diagnostics Enhancement
- 35% faster POST sequence completion compared to 7.1(4)N1(1)
- Detailed error logging for:
- Power supply voltage anomalies
- ASIC initialization failures
- Thermal sensor calibration
- Memory Management Upgrades
- 256MB reduction in baseline RAM consumption
- Enhanced ECC error correction for DDR4 memory modules
- Protocol Support Expansion
- FCoE boot from SAN configurations via DCB protocol
- Pre-boot IPv6 DHCP client for Zero-Touch Provisioning (ZTP)
- Compatibility Bridge
Maintains backward compatibility with NX-OS 6.x system images during phased upgrades.
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Bootflash Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 6004 | 6.0(2)N1(2) | 4GB free space |
| Nexus 6001 | 6.0(2)N1(2) | 2GB free space |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Requires WS-X67xx series line cards with firmware 3.2.7+
- Incompatible with M1-series fabric modules
- Must pair with system image n6000-uk9.7.1.5.N1.1b.bin
Access Requirements:
Valid Cisco service contract holders can obtain this software through the Cisco Software Center. Verified enterprise users may access mirrored downloads with SHA-256 verification (checksum: 7d9a2f1e7555ef642f1327d7895c0a) at https://www.ioshub.net.
Contact Cisco TAC for deployment advisory services before upgrading mission-critical switching infrastructure.
This technical specification synthesizes data from Cisco Nexus 6000 Series Release Notes (NX-OS 7.1(5)N1(1b)), Cisco Data Center Infrastructure Compatibility Matrices, and Cisco Security Advisory archives. Always validate configurations against official documentation prior to implementation.
