Introduction to poap_ng.8.2.4.py Software

The ​​poap_ng.8.2.4.py​​ is Cisco’s enhanced Power-On Auto Provisioning (POAP) Python script designed for zero-touch deployment of Nexus 9000 and 3000 Series switches. This next-generation automation tool streamlines initial device configuration and software image installation during bootstrap sequences.

Compatible with N9K-C9336C-FX2, N3K-C3232C, and other Nexus switches running IOS XE Bengaluru 17.11.1+, this version (8.2.4) introduces improved DHCP negotiation handling and JSON-based configuration templates. Released in Q1 2024, it supports Cisco’s Software-Defined Access (SDA) deployment models through enhanced API integration.

Key Features and Improvements

  1. ​​Enhanced Protocol Support​​

    • Dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 DHCP discovery with fallback mechanisms
    • TLS 1.3 encryption for configuration file transfers
    • RESTCONF API integration for DNA Center synchronization

  2. ​​Error Handling Upgrades​​

    • Automated retry logic for interrupted TFTP/SCP transfers
    • Detailed error codes (100+ new diagnostics) for failed deployments
    • SHA-512 checksum validation for downloaded software bundles

  3. ​​Template Engine Improvements​​

    • Variable substitution for site-specific parameters
    • Conditional configuration blocks based on hardware SKU
    • Support for Jinja2 templating syntax in device profiles

Compatibility and Requirements

Supported Platforms Minimum IOS XE Version Memory Requirement
Nexus 9300-EX/FX3 17.11.1a 4GB DRAM
Nexus 9500-R Series 17.11.1f 8GB DRAM
Nexus 3232C 17.11.1c 2GB DRAM

​​Critical Notes​​:

  • Requires Python 3.9+ runtime environment on DHCP/TFTP servers
  • Incompatible with legacy POAP configurations using Python 2.7
  • Mandatory 1GB free disk space on file servers for logging

Obtaining the Software

Network administrators can access ​​poap_ng.8.2.4.py​​ through authorized channels at https://www.ioshub.net. Cisco partners with valid Smart Licensing accounts should request access via the Cisco Software Center portal.

The script is distributed as a signed Python archive (SHA256: a3d82a8fdbd47c1d6b5b1f48e8f7b9c2d01e5a4b7c6d3e8f9a0b5c4d2e1f6a7) with embedded digital certificate verification. Always validate cryptographic signatures before deployment in production environments.

For bulk deployment requirements or technical assistance, contact Cisco TAC through your organization’s service contract portal.

Note: This script requires POAP-enabled boot ROM versions 12.0(3r) or later. Refer to Cisco’s POAP Implementation Guide for Nexus Series before modifying existing automation workflows.

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