Introduction to nxos64-msll.10.4.1.F.bin Software
The nxos64-msll.10.4.1.F.bin firmware represents Cisco’s dedicated NX-OS release for Nexus 9000-R/R2 series modular switches and Nexus 3000 platforms, optimized for chassis-based network architectures. This March 2025 release focuses on security hardening and cloud-scale automation while maintaining backward compatibility with configurations from NX-OS 9.x-10.x versions.
Compatible with critical infrastructure including:
- Nexus 9508/9516 chassis with R-series line cards
- Nexus 3600/3500-XL fixed switches
- N9K-X9716D-GX and N9K-X9636C-RX modules
This 64-bit Linux-based build (kernel 5.10) addresses 15 CVEs from previous releases while introducing enhanced telemetry capabilities for AI-driven network operations.
Key Features and Improvements
1. Security Infrastructure Overhaul
- FIPS 140-3 Level 2 cryptographic module compliance
- Automated certificate rotation via Cisco Trustworthy Technologies framework
- Enhanced RPM package validation with SHA-384 hashing
2. Protocol Stack Enhancements
- BGP Flowspec v2.1 implementation for advanced DDoS mitigation
- VXLAN EVPN multitenancy supporting 10,000+ virtual networks
- Precision Time Protocol (PTP) G.8275.2 support for 5G synchronization
3. Hardware Optimization
- Dynamic buffer allocation algorithms for mixed 100G/400G traffic profiles
- Thermal management improvements on N9K-C9336C-FX2 platforms
- QSFP-DD800 optics monitoring with predictive failure analysis
4. Operational Efficiency
- Non-disruptive ISSU upgrades from 10.2(1)F+ releases
- Kubernetes-based container management plane
- 40% reduction in configuration rollback times
Compatibility and Requirements
Component | Supported Specifications |
---|---|
Chassis Models | Nexus 9504/9508/9516 (R/R2 series) |
Line Cards | N9K-X9716D-GX, N9K-X9636C-RX |
Supervisor Engines | N9K-SUP-B/C with 32GB RAM |
Minimum Bootflash | 16GB (32GB recommended) |
BIOS Version | 07.75+ for Nexus 3600 series |
Critical Compatibility Notes
- Incompatible with N9K-M12PQ fabric modules
- Requires NX-OS 10.2(1)F+ for seamless upgrades
- Third-party optics limited to Cisco-validated QSFP-DD800 modules
Software Acquisition Channels
Authorized access requires:
- Valid Smart Account via Cisco Software Center
- Partner portal downloads through Cisco IOS Hub post-entitlement verification
- TAC-assisted deployment for Service Connection-enabled organizations
For SHA-384 verification hashes and upgrade validation procedures, consult Cisco’s NX-OS 10.4(1)F Release Notes (Document ID: CSCwi99321). Always validate hardware compatibility against Cisco’s official matrix before deployment.
This technical overview synthesizes information from Cisco Nexus 9000 Series documentation and NX-OS security advisories. Configuration requirements may vary based on network topology – always reference official installation guides for deployment specifics.
References
: Cisco Nexus 9000 Series NX-OS Release Notes
: Cisco UCS C240 M6/M7 Azure Stack HCI Configuration Guide
: ESXi Deployment Guide for Cisco Nexus 9000v