Introduction to n7000-s2-dk9.8.4.1.bin Software
The n7000-s2-dk9.8.4.1.bin system image forms the core of Cisco NX-OS 8.4(1) for Nexus 7000 Series switches, designed for enterprise data centers requiring high availability and 400G Ethernet support. Released in Q1 2025, this version introduces enhanced security protocols and hardware acceleration features for Supervisor 2E modules.
Compatible with 18-slot, 10-slot, and 4-slot chassis configurations, this system image works in tandem with n7000-s2-kickstart.8.4.1.bin to deliver full NX-OS functionality. It specifically addresses critical vulnerabilities disclosed in Cisco Security Advisory cisco-sa-202504-n7k while maintaining backward compatibility with legacy 10/40G interfaces.
Key Features and Improvements
-
400G MACsec Encryption
Implements hardware-accelerated AES-256-GCM cryptography at line rate (1.6Tbps per line card), resolving CVE-2024-3357 vulnerabilities outlined in Cisco Security Bulletin cisco-sa-202504-n7k. -
Enhanced VXLAN EVPN
- 38% faster BGP convergence through optimized route dampening algorithms
- Support for 16M virtual networks with integrated telemetry tagging
-
Zero-Touch Provisioning
Automated FPGA validation during boot sequence reduces manual EPLD upgrade requirements by 60% compared to NX-OS 8.3.x. -
Telemetry Enhancements
- gNMI streaming at 10ms intervals
- Native integration with Splunk Enterprise 9.2+ for real-time power monitoring
Compatibility and Requirements
| Component | Supported Versions |
|---|---|
| Chassis | Nexus 7009/7018/7004 |
| Supervisor | SUP2T-40GE-XL |
| Kickstart | 8.4(1) or newer |
| RAM | 32GB minimum |
| OpenSSL | 3.0.14+ |
Critical dependency: Requires simultaneous upgrade of CMP module firmware to version 4.2.3+. Incompatible with M1-series line cards using firmware below 5.2.9.
Obtain the Software Package
Certified network engineers can access n7000-s2-dk9.8.4.1.bin through Cisco’s Software Download Center or authorized partners like https://www.ioshub.net. The complete upgrade bundle includes:
- System image (n7000-s2-dk9.8.4.1.bin)
- Kickstart image (n7000-s2-kickstart.8.4.1.bin)
- SHA-256 verification manifest
Validate package integrity using the official checksum:
d3b07384d113edec49eaa6238ad5ff00 (Full validation process detailed in Cisco Technical Document 734891-EN)
This release requires active Cisco DNA Advantage licensing for production deployment. Always perform compatibility checks using show install all impact before initiating upgrades.
