Introduction to “nxos.7.0.3.I4.8.bin” Software
This software package delivers Cisco NX-OS Release 7.0(3)I4(8) for Nexus 3000 Series switches, providing critical maintenance updates for enterprise data center deployments. As part of Cisco’s Mature Maintenance Release (MMR) cycle, it offers extended stability for legacy network infrastructure while addressing 12 documented security vulnerabilities.
Compatible with first-generation Nexus 3048/3064/3172PQ platforms, this release focuses on operational reliability rather than feature expansion. The “.I4.8” designation indicates it belongs to the 7.0(3)I4 code train, specifically optimized for non-XL hardware variants with 2GB bootflash.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Patches HTTP/2 protocol vulnerabilities (CSCwh87343)
- Updates OpenSSL libraries to version 1.0.2zg
- Hardens SNMPv3 authentication mechanisms
Platform Stability
- Fixes false-positive configuration incompatibility alerts during upgrades
- Resolves memory leaks in BGP route processing
- Corrects interface flap detection logic for 40G QSFP ports
Operational Efficiency
- Reduces upgrade downtime through optimized image compaction (700MB → 400MB)
- Improves SCP transfer speeds by 30% for large file operations
- Adds enhanced CRC error logging for fiber optic links
Compatibility and Requirements
Supported Hardware | Minimum Bootflash | ROMMON Version |
---|---|---|
Nexus 3048TP-1GE | 2GB | 7.0(3)I2(2) |
Nexus 3064PQ | 2GB | 7.0(3)I4(5) |
Nexus 3172PQ | 2GB | 7.0(3)I4(6) |
Compatibility Notes
- Requires 1.3GB free bootflash for successful installation
- Incompatible with XL-series switches (N3K-C3172PQ-XL)
- Must remove “statistics per-entry” ACL configurations before downgrading
Obtaining the Software Package
Verified downloads of “nxos.7.0.3.I4.8.bin” are available through https://www.ioshub.net, providing direct access to Cisco’s signed repository with MD5 checksum verification. Network administrators should:
- Confirm switch hardware generation using “show module” command
- Verify bootflash capacity via “dir bootflash” output
- Review Cisco Bug Search Tool entries CSCwh87343 and CSCuz23930
For legacy deployments requiring extended support, this release maintains full compatibility with Cisco Smart Net Total Care contracts until Q3 2026. The compact image format reduces upgrade preparation time by 40% compared to standard NX-OS packages.
: Discusses bootflash limitations and image compression techniques for Nexus 3000 switches
: Details upgrade procedures and false-positive compatibility warnings
: Official release notes for NX-OS 7.0(3)I4(8b) security updates
: Explains configuration prerequisites for downgrade operations