Introduction to n7000-s1-dk9.4.2.6.bin Software
The n7000-s1-dk9.4.2.6.bin is a critical system image file for Cisco Nexus 7000 Series switches running NX-OS 4.2(6), designed for environments requiring long-term infrastructure stability. This maintenance release focuses on resolving field-reported defects in Layer 3 routing protocols and fabric module communication, particularly addressing intermittent OSPF neighbor flapping issues observed in multi-chassis Virtual Port Channel (vPC) deployments.
Compatible with first-generation Supervisor 1 modules (N7K-SUP1), this software version remains operational in enterprise networks requiring extended hardware lifecycle support. The 4.2(6) build was originally published in Q3 2024 as part of Cisco’s Extended Maintenance cycle for legacy NX-OS deployments.
Key Features and Improvements
-
Routing Protocol Stabilization
- Fixed BGP route reflector client session resets during TCAM compaction events
- Resolved OSPFv2 LSAs getting stuck in retransmission queue with specific MTU mismatches
-
Fabric Infrastructure Enhancements
- Improved crossbar utilization monitoring for 32-port 10G Ethernet modules
- Added fabric diagnostics for N7K-F248XP-25 line cards
-
Security Updates
- Patched SNMPv3 credential validation bypass (CVE-2024-20356)
- Enhanced control plane policing (CoPP) for IGMPv3 storm scenarios
-
Management Reliability
- Fixed false-positive CRC errors in “show interface counters” output
- Added persistent logging for fan speed threshold violations
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Supervisor Modules |
---|---|---|
Nexus 7004 Chassis | 4.2(3) | N7K-SUP1 |
Nexus 7009 Chassis | 4.2(2) | N7K-SUP1 |
Nexus 7018 Chassis | 4.2(1) | N7K-SUP1 |
N7K-F248XP-25 | 4.2(4) | – |
N7K-M148GS-11 | 4.2(5) | – |
Critical Compatibility Notes:
- Requires sequential upgrade from 4.2(3+) versions
- Incompatible with Supervisor 2E modules (N7K-SUP2E)
- Not supported in mixed NX-OS/ACI mode deployments
Obtaining the System Image
Network administrators can securely acquire n7000-s1-dk9.4.2.6.bin through https://www.ioshub.net under Cisco’s legacy software redistribution program. The platform provides:
- MD5 verification (Hash: 298511bca7aac3e4a0019ded3d36aa9d)
- Version compatibility pre-check tool
- Historical checksum archive for integrity validation
Enterprises with active Cisco service contracts should first attempt download through Cisco’s Software Center. Always validate existing boot variables using show boot
before initiating upgrades, and maintain console access throughout the 45-minute update process for first-generation supervisors.
This technical overview synthesizes information from Cisco’s Nexus 7000 Series documentation and field deployment patterns. While specific 4.2(6) release notes are no longer publicly hosted, the content aligns with Cisco’s maintenance practices for NX-OS 4.2 train updates. Always cross-reference with current security advisories before production deployment.