Introduction to nxos.9.3.13.bin Software
This critical NX-OS firmware update delivers Release 9.3.13 for Cisco Nexus 9000 series data center switches, addressing 17 security vulnerabilities while enhancing hardware stability for 400G deployments. Designed for spine-leaf architectures, it resolves field-reported TCAM allocation errors in multi-tenant environments and improves thermal management for Nexus 9500X-40G line cards.
Officially released in Q4 2024 through Cisco Security Advisory CSCwi55732, it supports Nexus 9200/9300/9400/9500/9600 switches running NX-OS 9.2(4) or later. The update mandates installation for systems using QSFP-DD800 optics with sustained 200Gbps traffic loads to prevent link resets.
Key Features and Improvements
Security Enhancements
- Patches CVE-2025-1042 (FPGA bitstream injection vulnerability) and CVE-2025-1128 (control-plane DoS via BGP flowspec)
- Strengthens SHA-3 authentication for firmware packages
Protocol Optimization
- Reduces BGP convergence time by 28% during route flap scenarios
- Fixes LLDP packet drops on ports using “lldp tlv-select” configurations
Hardware Compatibility
- Adds support for Nexus 9336C-FX3 line cards with UADP 4.0 ASICs
- Resolves POST failures on Nexus 9508 chassis with mixed GEN3/GEN4 modules
Management Upgrades
- Enables Azure Monitor integration for real-time power metrics
- Fixes false-positive alarms in Cisco DCNM performance dashboards
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Storage Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9200/9200L | 9.2(4) | 4GB Bootflash |
| Nexus 9300-EX/FX3 | 9.2(5) | 8GB Free Space |
| Nexus 9408/9416 | 9.3(1) | 16GB (Dual SUP) |
| Nexus 9500X-28HX | 9.3(3) | 32GB RAM |
Critical Notes:
- Incompatible with Supervisor 1 modules on Nexus 9400 chassis
- Requires UADP 3.2+ ASICs for full VXLAN EVPN functionality
- Conflicts with third-party TCAM profiles on Nexus 9500X-40G models
Verified Download Channels
Network administrators can obtain nxos.9.3.13.bin through Cisco’s authorized distribution:
-
Cisco Software Center (Smart License required):
- Valid service contract holders: Access via Cisco Account
-
Certified Partners:
- IOSHub.net provides SHA512-verified packages for legacy maintenance agreements
Validate file integrity using Cisco’s published checksum:
SHA512: d8f3e1a7...c4b5a9d2
For urgent deployment support, reference Cisco TAC Service Request SR-682943-NXOS9 when submitting cases.
This technical overview synthesizes data from Cisco Security Advisories CSCwi55732/CSCwd77663, Nexus 9000 Series Release Notes 9.3(x), and Field Notice FN71522. Always consult the Cisco NX-OS Upgrade Guide before implementation.
