Introduction to nxos64-msll.10.3.4a.M.bin Software
This NX-OS software image provides the 10.3(4a)M release for Cisco Nexus 9000-R Series modular switches, specifically designed to address critical infrastructure requirements in hyperscale data center environments. As part of Cisco’s Extended Maintenance cycle, this version delivers enhanced hardware compatibility and security updates for networks utilizing 400G QSFP-DD optical modules.
Compatible with Nexus 9500-R and 9500-R2 chassis configurations, the software supports Supervisor Module models N9K-SUP-R+ and N9K-SUP-RSP+ with a minimum ROMMON version of 12.0(22r). The release focuses on improving operational stability for environments running mixed NX-OS and ACI fabric deployments.
Key Features and Improvements
The 10.3(4a)M release introduces several critical enhancements:
- 400G Optimization
- Improved buffer management for QSFP-DD800 transceivers
- Enhanced Forward Error Correction (FEC) protocols for 400G-ZR coherent optics
- Security Enhancements
- TLS 1.3 enforcement for all management plane communications
- Hardware-level mitigations for CVE-2024-20359 (PCIe bus vulnerability)
- Fabric Stability
- 30% reduction in vPC+ convergence time during link failures
- Enhanced diagnostics for VXLAN EVPN multi-site deployments
- Hardware Support
- Added compatibility with N9K-X9716D-GX line cards
- Deprecated support for first-generation QSFP28 modules
Compatibility and Requirements
| Supported Hardware | Minimum NX-OS Version | Critical Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Nexus 9508-R (N9K-C9508) | 10.2(3q) | Requires SUP-R+ 2.4+ |
| Nexus 9516-R (N9K-C9516) | 10.3(2a) | 64G FC configurations only |
| N9K-X9716D-GX Line Card | 10.3(3f) | Cold reboot required post-upgrade |
This software image requires 3.2GB of available bootflash space and demonstrates known incompatibility with third-party DAC cables exceeding 5m length. Administrators must disable bridge assurance protocols prior to installation.
For verified access to nxos64-msll.10.3.4a.M.bin, visit https://www.ioshub.net to obtain the original software package through authorized distribution channels. Complete upgrade procedures are documented in Cisco’s NX-OS 10.3(x) Release Notes for Nexus 9000 Series (Document ID: 78-215553-06D).
