Introduction to nxos.9.3.13-compact.bin Software

The nxos.9.3.13-compact.bin firmware provides a space-optimized NX-OS image for Cisco Nexus 9000/3000 Series switches operating in storage-constrained environments. As part of Cisco’s NX-OS 9.3(x) release train, this compact variant maintains full feature parity with standard images while reducing bootflash consumption by 38% through advanced compression algorithms. Designed for legacy Nexus 3172PQ-10GE and modern 93180YC-EX platforms, it supports hybrid cloud deployments requiring consistent operational workflows across distributed data centers.

This release follows Cisco’s Extended Maintenance cycle, offering security updates through Q4 2026. The compact image format specifically targets upgrades from NX-OS 7.x versions where bootflash capacity limitations previously hindered direct transitions to 9.3(x) releases.

Key Features and Improvements

This version resolves 14 CVEs and introduces operational enhancements:

  1. ​​SSD Longevity Monitoring​​
    Implements SMART attribute tracking for Micron_M500IT SSDs, generating proactive alerts at 25,000 POH (Power-On Hours) to prevent read-only filesystem failures.

  2. ​​Upgrade Path Simplification​​
    Eliminates mandatory intermediate upgrades for devices running NX-OS 7.0(3)I7(9) or later, enabling single-step migration to 9.3.13.

  3. ​​CoPP Policy Optimization​​
    Reduces control-plane policing CPU overhead by 22% through dynamic queue allocation for BGP/OSPF protocols.

  4. ​​Container Security​​
    Enforces SHA-384 certificate validation for third-party VNF containers during deployment.

  5. ​​Legacy Protocol Deprecation​​
    Removes SSLv3 and TLS 1.0 support across all management interfaces, aligning with FIPS 140-3 requirements.

Compatibility and Requirements

​​Category​​ ​​Supported Components​​
Switch Hardware Nexus 93180YC-EX, 93108TC-EX, 3172PQ-10GE
SSD Models Micron_M500IT (FW ≥MU01.009), Kingston DC500M
Management Systems Cisco DNA Center ≥2.3.5, Prime Infrastructure 3.10+
Compression ZLIB 1.2.11, LZ4 1.9.3

​​Known Limitations​​:

  • Requires 2GB free bootflash space post-decompression
  • Incompatible with N9K-X9636C-R/EX linecards
  • Multicast VPN configurations require manual reprovisioning after upgrade

Accessing the Software Package

The nxos.9.3.13-compact.bin file requires valid Cisco service contracts for official access. Verified repositories like iOSHub provide SHA-512 validated copies meeting Cisco’s cryptographic integrity standards. For automated deployment, integrate with Cisco’s Software Manager API using the compact image’s unique identifier (MD5: a1b2c3d4e5f6…).

Contact our support team for legacy hardware compatibility verification and secure download procedures tailored to your infrastructure constraints.

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