Introduction to n6000-uk9-kickstart.7.3.14.N1.1.bin Software
This kickstart image provides essential boot initialization capabilities for Cisco Nexus 6000 Series switches, specifically designed for NX-OS 7.3(14)N1(1) deployments. As part of Cisco’s maintenance release strategy, this version focuses on resolving critical vulnerabilities while maintaining backward compatibility with existing network configurations.
Targeting Nexus 6004/6001 chassis switches, the image supports hardware platforms running NX-OS 7.3(x)N1 series firmware. Officially released in Q3 2024, it serves as a mandatory component for upgrading systems to the latest secure software stack.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Enhancements
- Patched 9 CVEs including buffer overflow vulnerabilities in DHCPv6 handling (CVE-2024-20387)
- Strengthened secure boot validation using SHA-384 hashing
2. Platform Optimization
- 25% faster POST sequence completion
- Enhanced error recovery for RAID controller initialization
3. Hardware Compatibility
- Full support for Nexus 6000-XL line cards with 100G QSFP28 optics
- Improved thermal management for N9K-C6004 chassis
4. Diagnostic Improvements
- Extended boot-time hardware validation checks
- Automated bad sector remapping in bootflash
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware | Minimum Memory | Required Bootloader |
---|---|---|
Nexus 6004 Chassis | 16GB | 7.3(8)N1(1)+ |
Nexus 6001 Chassis | 8GB | 7.3(8)N1(1)+ |
Nexus 6000-XL Line Cards | N/A | 7.3(10)N1(1)+ |
⚠️ Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Incompatible with NX-OS versions below 7.3(8)N1(1)
- Requires simultaneous system image upgrade when replacing kickstart versions older than 7.3(12)N1(1)
- Not supported on Nexus 5600/7000 series platforms
Verified Download Access
This enterprise-grade boot image is distributed through Cisco’s authorized channels. Network administrators requiring immediate deployment access with verified file integrity (SHA-256: 8f3a1d…b92c71) may request the authenticated package via iOSHub.net.
For mission-critical environments, our 24/7 Cisco-certified support team provides:
- Pre-upgrade configuration audits
- Multi-device batch upgrade planning
- Post-installation validation services
This technical documentation aligns with Cisco’s NX-OS 7.3(x)N1 Series Release Notes and incorporates field validation data from enterprise data center deployments. Always verify hardware compatibility using the “show incompatibility-all” CLI command before initiating upgrades.