White Paper: Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Reference

Guide

Contents

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Release Families

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Family Hardware

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Family Numbering

Cisco IOS Software Mainline and T Trains Relationships

Cisco IOS Software Mainline and T Trains Numbering

Cisco IOS Software 12.2S Release Family Numbering

Cisco IOS Software Rebuilds

Cisco IOS XE Software Train Numbering

Cisco IOS XR Software Numbering

Cisco IOS XR Software System Maintenance Updates

Cisco NX-OS Software Numbering

Cisco IOS Software Release Migration

Cisco IOS Software Migration Examples

Cisco IOS Software Life Cycle

Software Retirement

Important Communications About Cisco IOS Software Releases

Cisco System Image Packaging

Cisco IOS Software Packaging

Cisco IOS Software Packaging Changes in Cisco IOS Sofware Release 15.0 for Cisco Integrated Services Routers Generation Two

Cisco IOS Software Packaging for Cisco Switches

Cisco IOS Switches Software Activation and Universal Image

Cisco IOS XE Software Packaging

Cisco IOS XR Software Packaging

Cisco NX-OS Software Packaging

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Images

Cisco IOS Software Images

Cisco IOS XE Software Images

Cisco IOS XR Software Images

Cisco NX-OS Software Images

Tools and Resources

Acknowledgments

References

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Release Families

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software continues to evolve to meet the rapidly changing requirements of the most demanding enterprise and

service provider networks. To better meet the requirements of the different market segments the software is organized into software

release families and trains.

A software release family is software that shares a code base, applies to related hardware platforms, and has some overlap in the

timeframe when it is actively supported. A train is a vehicle for delivering Cisco software to a specific set of platforms and features.

Trains are grouped into software release families. Because different software release families can apply to different platforms or market

segments, several trains can be current at any point in time. For example the Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX train coexists with the 12.4T

train and each train will have a corresponding latest release that incorporates the newest features and hardware support for the particular

platforms on which they run. For the same reason, some trains may outlast seemingly newer trains; for example the 12.3 and 12.3T

trains reached end of life status while several trains in the Cisco IOS 12.2S software release family continue to be active in their

respective life-cycles.

Within a software release family there may be two closely related active trains. For example, in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 release

family the two closely related trains are the 12.4 and the 12.4T trains. The Cisco IOS Software 12.4 train is considered the mainline

train or M train and is meant to receive mostly software fixes with the goal of increasing software quality. Meanwhile, the 12.4T or technology train receives new software features and hardware support along with software fixes.

Not all software families have separate mainline and technology trains. An example of this is the Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX train,

which instead has extended maintenance and standard maintenance releases. In the 12.2SX train, an extended maintenance release

incorporates the features and hardware support of previous releases (both standard and extended) and remains active for a total of 30

months before reaching end of maintenance status. Standard maintenance releases stay active only for 18 months and do not receive

any software fixes after that time. Both extended maintenance and standard maintenance releases initially deliver new features and

hardware support, but later rebuilds of extended maintenance releases will typically contain only bug fixes. For more information

pertaining to the Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX train, please see the Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2SX on the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series product bulletin.

In the Cisco IOS Software 15.0 release family a new strategy is in place, reminiscent to the one used in the Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX

train. Unlike previous software release families, Cisco IOS 15.0 release family does not diverge into separate M and T trains but into M

and T releases in the same train. For example, the first release in the Cisco IOS Software 15.0 release family is 15.0(1)M, where M

indicates it is an extended maintenance release. An extended maintenance release is ideal for long-term maintenance and will provide

rebuilds for 44 months. Not all releases in the Cisco IOS Software 15.0 release family will be extended maintenance releases; there will

also be standard maintenance releases that receive the latest features and hardware support. The standard maintenance releases will have an uppercase T in their designation.

To expedite the availability of new hardware support, a short-lived release can branch out of the technology train. For example, Cisco

IOS Software Release 12.4(4)XD was a short-lived release that that contained features from 12.4(4)T and introduced support for the

Cisco 7200 VXR Series Routers with NPE-G2, then support for the NPE-G2 was integrated into the 12.4T train with 12.4(11)T. The releases that start with an uppercase X after the closing parenthesis are called X-releases and are considered a short-lived release.

Table 1. Summary of the Most Significant Trains in the Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Release Families

Software Release Family

Trains Description

Cisco IOS Software 15 release family

15 M and T Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware adoption for enterprise, access, and commercial networks. Incorporates new software features and hardware introduced in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train. Unlike 12.4 and 12.4T, Cisco IOS Software 15 release family consists of a single train that includes both extended maintenance releases and standard maintenance releases. Extended maintenance releases contain an uppercase M and provide bug fixes for 44 months, the first extended maintenance release is Cisco IOS Software Release 15.0(1)M. A standard maintenance release contains an uppercase T and only provides bug fixes for 18 months. An example of a standard maintenance release is 15.1(1)T. Note that 15.0M and 15.0T constitute a single train. See the Release Notes for Cisco IOS Release 15.0M for additional details.

Cisco IOS Software 12.4 release family

12.4 Mainline Incorporates new software features and hardware support that was introduced in the Cisco IOS Software 12.3T train and additional software fixes. Mainline releases (also called maintenance releases) contain no uppercase letter in their release designation and inherit new Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware from lower numbered T releases.

12.4T Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware adoption that introduces new technology, functionality, and hardware advances for enterprise, access, and commercial networks that are not available in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline train.

12.4 Special and Early Deployments

Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for the market introduction of new platforms. For example, Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(4)XD introduces support for the Cisco 7200 VXR Series Router with NPG-G2.

Cisco IOS Software 12.3 release family

12.3 and 12.3T The Cisco IOS Software 12.3 release family has been superseded by the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 release family.

Cisco IOS Software 12.2S release family

12.2S Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for platforms that are deployed in the service provider market, including the Cisco 7500 Series Routers.

12.2SB Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for broadband and leased-line aggregation, and Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) on a comprehensive portfolio of mid-range routers for service provider edge networks, like the Cisco 10000 Series Routers.

12.2SE Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for mid-range and low-end Ethernet LAN switching for enterprise access and distribution networks, and mid-range and low-end Metro Ethernet for service provider edge networks that include the Cisco Catalyst

2960 Series, Cisco Catalyst 3550 Series, and Cisco Catalyst 3750 Series Switches.

12.2SG Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for the Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Supervisor Engine II-Plus, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Supervisor Engine II-Plus-TS, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Supervisor II-Plus-10GE, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine IV, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine V, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series Supervisor Engine V-10GE, Cisco Catalyst 4500 Supervisor Engine 6-E, Cisco Catalyst 4900 Series Switches, and Cisco Catalyst 4900M Switch.

12.2SR Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for high-end Metro Ethernet and MPLS PE for service provider edge networks.

12.2SX Provides Cisco IOS Software functionality and hardware support for high-end Ethernet LAN switching for enterprise access, distribution, core, and data center networks. Cisco IOS Software Modularity is a feature set available in the 12.2SX train.

Cisco IOS XE Software

2.6 2.5 2.4

Cisco IOS XE Software is a Cisco IOS Software implementation that is optimized for compact routers at the network edge that deliver in-service software upgrades and software redundancy in a form factor much smaller than previously possible. In addition to the rich Cisco IOS Software edge feature set, Cisco IOS XE Software provides IOS command-line control to provide a familiar look and feel for Cisco IOS Software users. Cisco IOS XE Software includes the ability to restart processes individually, with emphasis on fault management features, and in-service software upgrades. The Cisco IOS XE Software route processor code originated from the Cisco IOS 12.2S release family, this provides operational consistency with other Cisco IOS Software routers. Cisco IOS XE Software supports the Cisco ASR 1000 Series routers.

Cisco IOS XR Software

3.9 3.8 3.7

Provides Cisco IOS XR Software functionality and hardware support for the Cisco CRS-1 Carrier Routing System, Cisco 12000 Series Routers, and Cisco ASR 9000 Series routers. Cisco IOS XR Software is designed to address the terabit scaling, secure virtualization, high availability, and distributed processing requirements of large IP next-generation networks. Cisco IOS XR Software is based on a microkernel with preemptive multitasking and memory protection. The command-line is designed to be similar to Cisco IOS Software.

Cisco NX-OS Software

4.2 4.1 4.1E 4.1N 4.0SV

Cisco NX-OS Software is a data-center-class operating system built to meet the demands of the virtualized data center and delivers critical features such as a modular and flexible architecture, continuous system availability, and switch virtualization capabilities. Based on the industry proven Cisco SAN-OS Software, Cisco NX-OS Software helps ensure continuous availability and sets the standard for mission-critical data center environments. The self-healing and highly modular design of Cisco NX-OS Software makes zero-impact operations a reality and enables exceptional operation flexibility.

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Family Hardware

Software selection depends on a number of factors, including hardware and software feature requirements, current life cycle status of

applicable trains, and outstanding caveats. For guidance on selecting software for specific requirements, please use the Software

Advisor Tool (registered customers only). A general overview of hardware support is shown in Table 2, which correlates the most common Cisco hardware platforms to the primary Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software family releases.

Table 2. Primary Cisco IOS Software Trains Used by Hardware Families

Hardware Family Primary Cisco IOS Software Trains

Branch Routers

Cisco 800, 1800, 2800, and 3800 Integrated Series Routers Cisco IOS 15 Cisco IOS 12.4T

Cisco 1900, 2900, and 3900 Integrated Services Routers Cisco IOS 15

WAN Routers

Cisco 7200 VXR Series and Cisco 7301 Router Cisco IOS 15 Cisco IOS 12.4T Cisco IOS 12.2SR Cisco IOS 12.2SB

Cisco 7201 Router Cisco IOS 15 Cisco IOS 12.4T Cisco IOS 12.2SR

Cisco 7304 Router Cisco IOS 12.2S

Cisco 7500 Series Routers Cisco IOS 12.4 Cisco IOS 12.2S

Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers Cisco IOS XE 2.4 Cisco IOS XE 2.3

Service Provider

Cisco 7600 Series Routers Cisco IOS 12.2SR

Cisco 10000 Series Routers, Performance Routing Engine 2 through 4 Cisco IOS 12.2SB

Cisco ASR 9000 Series Routers Cisco IOS XR 3.9 Cisco IOS XR 3.8 Cisco IOS XR 3.7

Cisco 12000 Series Routers running Cisco XR Software (Also known as Cisco XR 12000 Series Routers)

Cisco IOS XR 3.9 Cisco IOS XR 3.8 Cisco IOS XR 3.7

Cisco 12000 Series Routers Cisco IOS 12.0S Cisco IOS 12.0SY (See Note 1)

Cisco CRS-1 Carrier Routing System Cisco IOS XR 3.9 Cisco IOS XR 3.8 Cisco IOS XR 3.7

Switches

Data Center

Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series Switches Cisco IOS 12.2SX

Cisco Nexus 7000 Switch Cisco NX-OS 4.2

Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch Cisco NX-OS 4.1N

Cisco Nexus 4000 Switch Cisco NX-OS 4.1E

Cisco Nexus 1000V Switch Cisco NX-OS 4.0SV

Campus LAN

Cisco Catalyst 2960, 2970, 3560, and 3750 Series Switches Cisco IOS 12.2SE

Cisco Catalyst 4500 and 4900 Series Switch Cisco IOS 12.2SG

Note 1: Cisco IOS Software 12.0SY train is a descendant of the highly popular 12.0S train. The Cisco IOS Software 12.0S train was

used in several platforms, but it is currently deployed mostly on the Cisco 12000 platform.

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Family Numbering

In order to effectively manage Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software within your network, it is important to understand the release numbering and terminology.

A train consists of individual releases, such as Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(20)T. Individual releases contain a number of software

fixes and, in most trains, this individual releases contain new hardware support and software features

The term release indicates an instance of the software as released on www.cisco.com. For example Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(7a) is a release of the 12.4 train.

Cisco IOS Software Mainline and T Trains Relationships

Cisco IOS Software trains typically contain an uppercase letter, the exception is called a mainline train. For example, the Cisco IOS

Software 12.4 and 12.3 trains are both mainline trains. In a few cases, mainline trains have been referred to as the “M” trains. A mainline train is always associated with a technology or T train.

Through the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 release family, the mainline and technology trains were separated, which means a mainline train

would evolve from the previous technology train and then would primarily receive bug fixes and occasionally new features or hardware

support. From the mainline train a technology train would branch out and become a separate code base that received new features and

hardware support. For example, Cisco IOS Software Release 12.3(14)T received new features and functionality and became 12.4(1).

After that, the following releases in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline train were Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(3) and 12.4(5),

both of which primarily integrated bug fixes. Meanwhile Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(1) received new features and hardware

support and became 12.4(2)T, which again received multiple new features and hardware support to became 12.4(4)T. The net effect is

that, as new releases become available, the latest technology and mainline releases continue to diverge as new functionality accumulates in the technology releases, which is mostly absent from the newer mainline releases.

Figure 1 illustrates the relationships between the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline train and the 12.4T train releases. The mainline

releases are designated as Maintenance Deployment releases (MD) while releases in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train are considered

Early Deployment (ED).

Figure 1. Mainline and T Train Relationships

The Cisco IOS Software 15 M and T train uses a different release model from the traditional separate mainline and technology trains.

Instead of diverging into separate trains, Cisco IOS Software 15 M and T will have extended maintenance releases and standard

maintenance releases. An extended maintenance release incorporates the features and hardware support of all the previous standard

maintenance releases. This makes newer extended maintenance releases available that contain the full functionality of the train at the

time of release. In the Cisco IOS Software 15 M and T train, extended maintenance releases are planned to become available every twenty months.

Figure 1a. Cisco IOS Software 15.0 Train Relationships

Cisco IOS Software Mainline and T Trains Numbering

The Cisco IOS Software 12.4 train receives software fixes on a regular basis, but does not normally receive new software features or

hardware support. Note that fixes applied to the 12.4 mainline train are synchronized with subsequent releases of the 12.4T train.

Derived from the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline train, the 12.4T train receives regular software fixes and provides new features and

hardware support.

Figure 2. Cisco IOS Software Mainline and T Trains Numbering

Notes:

The software release or train is composed of a train number and a train identifier. For example Cisco IOS Software Release

12.4(20)T1 belongs to the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train.

Each maintenance release of Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline, such as 12.4(7), includes additional software fixes. Each

maintenance release of Cisco IOS Software 12.4T, such as 12.4(20)T, includes additional software fixes, software features, and

hardware support.

The rebuild identifier for the mainline train is a lowercase letter. The rebuild identifier for the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train and

other non-mainline trains is a number. Each new rebuild increments the rebuild identifier and delivers additional software fixes on

an accelerated schedule, prior to the next planned individual release. To improve stability, the criteria for making changes in a

rebuild is strict.

A single set of individual release numbers are used for all Cisco IOS Software 12.4 trains. Cisco IOS Software Maintenance Release

12.4 and Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4T use a pool of individual release numbers that are shared across the whole Cisco IOS

Software 12.4 release family. For example Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(6)T was followed by 12.4(7) and 12.4(8) . This permits

the administrator to track changes introduced in the code. For example, say a caveat was fixed in Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(6)T, then it is possible to conclude that this specific caveat has also been fixed in 12.4(7), 12.4(8), and 12.4(9)T, but not in 12.4(5).

Cisco IOS Software 12.2S Release Family Numbering

The releases within the Cisco IOS Software 12.2S release family share a common code base from the Cisco IOS Software 12.2S train.

In addition to the common code base, software fixes and new software features are included in each individual release of the Cisco IOS

Software 12.2SB, 12.2SX, 12.2SE, 12.2SG, and 12.2SR trains. After their inclusion, where applicable, additional software fixes and

software features are propagated to other trains in the Cisco IOS Software 12.2S release family.

The key elements of the Cisco IOS Software 12.2S release family numbering scheme are the release number, individual release

number, and rebuild identifier (See Figure 3). Note that Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX releases that include new functionality will

typically include a third uppercase letter right after the 'SX' designation, such as 12.2(18)SXF, 12.2(33)SXH, and 12.2(33)SXI. This

model is also followed by other trains, for example, 12.2(25)SE is followed by 12.2(25)SEA, 12.2(25)SEB, 12.2(25)SEC and so on,

where each new individual release includes new features or hardware support.

Figure 3. Cisco IOS S Software Family Numbering

In the Cisco Catalyst 6500 series, an individual release can be either extended maintenance or standard maintenance and there is

additional terminology specific to Cisco IOS Software 12.2SX Major Release. Please see Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2SX on the

Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series

Cisco IOS Software Rebuilds

Cisco integrates fixes to high severity issues in an individual release via rebuilds to reduce the possible impact on customers that have

already deployed and certified an individual release. A rebuild typically includes fixes to a limited number of caveats and is indicated

by a lowercase letter inside the parenthesis of mainline trains or by a final number in other trains. For example, Cisco IOS Software

Release 12.4(21) received a few caveat fixes and the resulting rebuild was named 12.4(21a). In a similar way, 12.4(15)T8 is the eight

rebuild of 12.4(15)T.

Rebuilds of other trains, like those in the SX train also include a final ascending number to indicate a rebuild. For example, Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(33)SXH2 is the second rebuild of the 12.2(33)SXH individual release.

Occasionally, Cisco might rebuild an individual release number when a very significant defect is found. For example, 12.2(18)SXF15

was shortly followed by 12.2(18)SXF15a which included a single fix for a very significant defect.

Cisco IOS XE Software Train Numbering

The Cisco IOS XE Software numbering scheme uses a major release, release version, and rebuild scheme. For more details see the

Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Router bulletin.

Cisco IOS XE Software contains a number of components, including IOS daemon (IOSd), Interface Manager, Forwarding Manager,

Chassis Manager, and others. For a list of Cisco IOS XE Software components see Troubleshoot Cisco ASR 1000 Series Aggregation

Services Routers Crashes. The numeric scheme is the primary designation for Cisco IOS XE Software and applies to the collection of

all components. The IOSd is a very visible component, it incorporates the routing protocol functionality and is essentially Cisco IOS

Software code running as a user process. The origins of IOSd trace back to the Cisco IOS Software 12.2S release family. The IOSd uses

a release designation that includes the letters XN and has a versioning scheme that is similar to the one used by Cisco IOS Software.

Each version of Cisco IOS XE Software has an associated IOSd Cisco IOS Software version. See the Cisco ASR 1000 Series Release Notes for the mapping of the ASR IOS XE Software versions to the IOSd Cisco IOS versions.

Figure 4. Cisco IOS XE Software Numbering

Cisco IOS XE Software is classified as either standard-support or extended-support. Standard-support software has a sustaining

support lifetime of one year from First Customer Shipment (FCS), with two scheduled rebuilds. Extended-support software provides a

sustaining support lifetime of two years from FCS with four scheduled rebuilds. For more information on the Cisco IOS XE Software support models please see Cisco IOS XE Software End-of-Life Guidelines.

Cisco IOS XR Software Numbering

Cisco IOS XR Software is comprised of modular packages. Each package contains the components to perform a specific set of

functions, such as routing, security, or line card support. The key elements of the Cisco IOS XR Software numbering scheme consist of

the major release identifier, minor release identifier, and maintenance revision identifier. (See Figure 4.)

Figure 5. Cisco IOS XR Software Numbering

The major release identifier is the major release number for a package. A major release occurs when there is a significant architectural

change to the product (for example, an important new capability is introduced). All packages that operate on the router must be at the same major release level.

The minor release version does not have to be identical for all software packages that operate on the router. But the operating packages

must be certified by Cisco as compatible with each other. For example, a router running Cisco IOS XR Software could use an MPLS

package with a different minor release version than the multicast package if they are certified by Cisco as compatible. The maintenance

revision identifier is the maintenance release number for a given package. A maintenance release contains a collection of software fixes.

Cisco IOS XR Software System Maintenance Updates

The Cisco IOS XR Software mechanism for providing software fixes for critical issues is called a System Maintenance Update (SMU).

An SMU provides a release and platform specific patch. The impact of the SMU on the running system varies. Some updates are

designed to allow uninterrupted operation of the node while the SMU is applied, this is called a hitless SMU. Each SMU indicates the

expected impact on traffic flowing through the router when the SMU is activated.

Cisco NX-OS Software Numbering

Cisco NX-OS Software is a data center-class operating system that provides high availability with a modular design. Cisco NX-OS

Software is based on the Cisco MDS 9000 SAN-OS Software and it supports the Cisco Nexus Series and the Cisco MDS 9000 Series

Multilayer Switch. The Cisco NX-OS Software contains a kick start image and a system image, both images contain a major release

identifier, a minor release identifier, and a maintenance release identifier, and they can also contain a rebuild identifier, which may also

be referred to as a Support Patch. (See Figure 6). Additional details are available in the Cisco NX-OS Software Reference Guide.

The Cisco NX-OS Software for the Nexus 7000 Series Switches and MDS 9000 Series Switches uses the numbering scheme that is shown in figure 6.

Figure 6. Cisco IOS NX-OS Numbering for the Cisco Nexus 7000 and MDS 9000 Series Switches

For other members of the family, Cisco NX-OS Software uses a combination of platform independent and platform dependent scheme as shown in figure 6a.

Figure 6a. Cisco IOS NX-OS Software Numbering for the Nexus 4000 and 5000 Series Switches and Nexus 1000 Virtual

Switches

The platform designator is N for the Nexus 5000 Series Switches, E for the Nexus 4000 Series Switches, and S for the Nexus 1000

Series Switches. In addition, the Nexus 1000 virtual switch uses a two letter platform designation where the second letter indicates the

hypervisor vendor that the virtual switch is compatible with, for example V for VMware. Applicable features, functions, and fixes in

the platform independent code are present in the platform dependent release, in Figure 6a above, applicable fixes in Cisco NX-OS

Software Release 4.0(1a) are present in the 4.0(1a)N1(1a) release.

Cisco IOS Software Release Migration

The code selection process involves a number of different variables. Cisco recommends minimizing the number of releases that are

deployed in any network and to establish a software strategy that indicates which releases and images will be used in the different

devices that are deployed throughout the environment. To maximize operational efficiency, it is ideal to have devices with similar

hardware and feature deployment using the same Cisco IOS Software release. For professional advice on software versions to deploy in

specific environments please refer to Cisco Advanced Services.

New features or hardware support is the most common reason to upgrade to a newer train. A single device is likely to run different

trains at different times during its deployment cycle. For example, a device could have been initially deployed using the Cisco IOS

Software 12.3T train, then upgraded to the 12.4 train to take advantage of caveat fixes. As new services are deployed in the network,

the device might have the need for a new feature available in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train.

When there is no need to change the train that is used by a device, the general migration path for the device is to the latest release of

that train. If that train has an end-of-sale notification, the migration options found on the notification will list the trains or releases that

can be used to upgrade. The latest version incorporates the most current software fixes, software features, and hardware support.

The Cisco IOS Software Migration Examples section presents high-level examples of migration for some of the currently deployed releases.

Note: Cisco IOS Software migration is an ongoing process that takes detailed planning. Customers should work closely with their account managers when they take inventory of their deployed Cisco IOS Software and create a plan to migrate to more current releases.

Cisco IOS Software Migration Examples

Tables 3 through 7 describe example migration paths from Cisco IOS Software releases. The examples provided include general

guidelines, code selection must include analysis of outstanding caveats that apply to the environment where the code will be deployed.

To cover the minimum due diligence, the administrator needs to review the open and fixed caveats section of the Release Notes for the version under evaluation.

Table 3. Migration Paths from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(18)

12.4(18) Migration Strategy Example Strategy

The administrator needs additional software fixes, including fixes to the latest security advisories, but there is a need to minimize changes in the new version.

Migrate to the latest rebuild of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(18), such as Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(18e).

The administrator needs additional software fixes.

Migrate to the latest individual release in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 mainline train, such as Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(23).

The administrator needs software fixes, new features, and hardware support delivered in the Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4T or 15.0 family.

Migrate to the latest Individual release in the Cisco IOS Software 12.4T train or to the Cisco IOS 15.0 M and T train that contains support for the required new feature and hardware. To maximize software fixes, select the latest rebuild of that individual release. For example, migrate to Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(24)T1 or 15.0(1)M1.

Table 4. Migration Paths from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(15)T

12.4(15)T Migration Strategy Example Strategy

The administrator needs the latest software fixes, including the latest fixes available to security advisories, new features, and hardware support.

Migrate to the latest individual release of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4T, Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(24)T, or to the latest Extended Maintenance Release of the Cisco IOS Software 15.0 M and T train. Select the latest rebuild of the individual release for the maximum coverage of available fixes to security advisories. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(15)T to 12.4(24)T1 or 15.0(1)M1.

Table 5. Migration Paths from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(33)SB

12.2(31)SB2 Migration Strategy Example Strategy

The administrator needs the latest software fixes available in the 12.2SB train..

Migrate to the latest rebuild of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(31)SB. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(31)SB2 to 12.2(31)SB14.

The administrator needs the latest software fixes, new features, and hardware support.

Migrate to the latest individual release of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2SB. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(31)SB2 to 12.2(33)SB6

Table 6. Migration Paths from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(18)SXF

12.2(18)SXF Migration Strategy Example Strategy

The administrator needs the latest software fixes.

Migrate to Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(18)SXFx, where x is the next (or later) numbered version of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(18)SXF. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(18)SXF to 12.2(18)SXF15a.

Administrator needs the latest new features and hardware support.

Migrate to the latest rebuild of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2SX. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS Software Release 12.2(18)SXF to 12.2(33)SXI3.

Note: Cisco IOS Software Modularity is a feature set available in certain releases of the Cisco IOS 12.2SX train.

Table 7. Migration Paths from Cisco IOS XR Software Release 3.4.1

3.4.1 Migration Strategy Example Strategy

Administrator needs the latest software fixes. Migrate to the latest Cisco IOS XR Software Release 3.4 maintenance revision. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS XR Software Release 3.4.1 to 3.4.3.

Administrator needs one or more new features or software fixes available in the next minor release.

Migrate to Cisco IOS XR Release 3.x.y, where x is the next minor release of 3 and y is the latest maintenance release of 3.x. For example, migrate from Cisco IOS XR Release 3.4.1 to 3.5.4.

Cisco IOS Software Life Cycle

The Cisco IOS Software Release Policy is a structured plan that addresses the Cisco Software life cycle from First Customer Shipment

through end-of-life (EoL). The Release Policy addresses life cycle guidelines and migration planning for Cisco IOS Software Releases

12.4, 12.4T, 12.2SR, 12.2SB, 12.2SE, 12.2SG, 12.2S, and 12.0S.

Figure 7 shows the Cisco IOS Software life cycle milestones for the indicated releases.

Figure 7. Cisco IOS Software Life Cycle Milestones

First Customer Shipment (FCS): The day the release is first available to customers on Cisco.com

End of Sale (EoS) Announcement: Notification of the upcoming EoS date for the release. This milestone occurs six months prior

to the actual EoS date.

End of Sale (EoS): The day the release is no longer available for order or included in manufacturing shipments of Cisco hardware.

End of Sales is up to 36 months from the First Customer Shipment date.

End of Software Maintenance (EoSWM or EoSW): This is the last date that Cisco Engineering may release any final software

maintenance releases or software fixes for the release. The EoSWM is one year (12 months) beyond the EoS date, and does not

exceed four years (48 months) from the FCS date. Support for a release beyond the EoSWM date is provided via a successor

supported releases.

End of Vulnerability/Security Fixes: The last date that Cisco Engineering may release any software maintenance releases to

address vulnerability/security findings. This date depends on the release/train and might provide rebuilds for vulnerabilities for a

short time after the EoSWM date.

Last Date of Support: The last date to receive Cisco TAC service and support for the release. After this date, all support services

for the release are unavailable, and the product becomes obsolete.

Refer to Cisco IOS Software Product Life Cycle Dates & Milestones, for more information.

For information about EoL releases, please see Cisco IOS and NX-OS End-of-Sale and End-of-Life products and the End-of-Life Policy.

Note: Cisco recommends that release review and migration planning start at 36 months after FCS.

Software Retirement

Cisco IOS Software placed on the Cisco IOS Software Center remains available for customer download for 18 months. After 18

months, the software is eligible for retirement and removal from the Cisco IOS Software Center.

Software on the Cisco IOS Software Center is not retired for platforms that have not reached EoSWM unless a viable migration path

exists. A viable migration path does not cross critical memory boundaries for supported hardware and, if applicable, has a similar

internal or external certification. Cisco IOS Software is subject to deferral at any time should a widespread, catastrophic software defect be discovered.

Software retirement is not a formal life cycle milestone, but it does underscore the recommendation from Cisco that you implement

current versions of Cisco IOS Software. Cisco does not recommend new deployments of retired software.

Cisco IOS Software is retired based on age. If the Cisco IOS Software that runs in a customer network is retired, it does not mean the

software should be automatically replaced. If the software meets customer needs, then the customer can continue to use it. Cisco TAC provides assistance support for retired software until it reaches the published last-day-of-support.

Regardless of its status on the Cisco IOS Software Center, Cisco recommends that you maintain copies of all Cisco IOS Software that

is running on the network.

Important Communications About Cisco IOS Software Releases

Cisco issues many software advisories to customers for informational purposes only. Often, software advisories describe problems with

Cisco IOS Software that are hardware-specific or occur under unusual circumstances and therefore do not affect most customers. Often,

no action is required by the customer.

The following communications from Cisco do require customers to evaluate the impact of the underlying problem on their networks and take appropriate action:

Security Advisory—Product Security Incident Response Team (PSIRT) issues a security advisory to alert customers to security

issues that directly impact Cisco products and to help customers repair the Cisco product.

Security Responses —PSIRT issues a security response about issues that require a response to information posted to a public

forum, or to make recommendations to mitigate general problems that affect network stability.

Deferral Advisory—Cisco issues a deferral advisory to announce the removal of a Cisco IOS image from Cisco's offerings and to

introduce a replacement image. A deferral advisory is most often issued to correct a critical defect. At the time that the deferral of a

Cisco IOS image is advised, customers are strongly urged to migrate from the affected image to the replacement image.

Software Advisory—Cisco announces the introduction of a solution to a defect. Cisco has confirmed that this defect does not affect

the general use of a Cisco IOS Software release. Customers that could be impacted by the defect should upgrade to a replacement

image. The original software image is still available for download.

For more information about Cisco advisories, please review Cisco Advisory Product Bulletin #1654.

Cisco System Image Packaging

Cisco IOS Software Packaging

Cisco IOS Software Packaging consists of eight packages for Cisco routers (See Figure 8). This packaging scheme was introduced in

the Cisco IOS Software 12.3 mainline train and was later used in other trains as well. For additional information on Cisco IOS Software packaging see the Cisco IOS Packaging Customer Q&A

Figure 8. Cisco IOS Software Packaging for Cisco Routers and Switches

Five packages are designed to satisfy requirements in four typical service categories:

IP Base - IP data, is the entry level Cisco IOS Software Image

IP Voice - Converged voice and data, VoIP, VoFR, and IP Telephony

Advanced Security - Security and VPN features including Cisco IOS Firewall, IDS/IPS, IPSec, 3DES, and VPN

SP Services - Adds SSH/SSL, ATM, VoATM, and MPLS to IP Voice

Enterprise Base - Enterprise protocols: Multi-protocol and IBM Support

Three additional premium packages offer new Cisco IOS Software feature combinations that address more complex network

requirements. All features merge in the Advanced Enterprise Services package that integrates support for all routing protocols with

Voice, Security, and VPN capabilities:

Advanced IP Services - Full Cisco IOS Software features

Enterprise Services - Enterprise Base, Full IBM Support, and Service Provider Services

SP Services - MPLS, ATM, and VoATM

Feature inheritance is another powerful aspect of Cisco IOS Packaging. After a feature is introduced, it is included in the more

comprehensive packages. The feature inheritance facilitates migration by clarifying the feature content of the different packages and

how they relate to each another.

Cisco IOS Packaging also simplifies image naming. Each name is designed to effectively convey the high-level feature content of, and

the inheritance characteristics for the new packages.

These categories summarize the new naming convention:

Base - Entry level image (IP Base, Enterprise Base). Starting with the Cisco IOS Software 12.4 release family, SSH is available in

all images, including the Base images.

Services - Addition of IP Telephony Service, MPLS, Voice over IP (VoIP), Voice over Frame Relay (VoFR), and ATM (SP

Services, Enterprise Services).

Advanced - Addition of VPN, Cisco IOS Firewall, 3DES encryption, Cisco IOS IPsec, and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS)

(Advanced Security, Advanced IP Services). In the Cisco IOS Software 12.3 release family SSH is available in the Advanced

images).

Enterprise - Addition of multi-protocols, including IBM, IPX, and AppleTalk (Enterprise Base, Enterprise Services)

Cisco IOS Packaging was introduced on Cisco access routers in May 2003, Cisco LAN switches in April 2005, and Cisco mid-range routers in July 2005. Refer to the Cisco IOS Packaging page for additional information about Cisco IOS Packaging.

Cisco IOS Software Packaging Changes in Cisco IOS Software Release 15.0 for Cisco Integrated Services Routers Generation

Two

Cisco Integrated Services Routers Generation Two (ISR G2) 1900, 2900, and 3900 Series support services on demand through the use

of software licensing which enables customers to realize operational savings through ease of software ordering and management. When

an order is placed for a new ISR G2 platform, the router is shipped with a single universal Cisco IOS Software image and a license is used to enable the corresponding feature set packages as shown in Figure 8a below.

Figure 8a. Cisco IOS Software Packaging Model for 1900, 2900, and 3900 Series Integrated Services Routers

There are two types of universal images supported in ISR G2:

1. Universal images with the "universalk9" designation in the image name: This universal image offers all of the Cisco IOS Software

features, including strong payload cryptography features such as IPSec VPN, SSL VPN, and Secure Unified Communications.

2. Universal images with the "universalk9_npe" designation in the image name: The strong enforcement of encryption capabilities

provided by Cisco Software Activation satisfies requirements for the export of encryption capabilities. However, some countries

have import requirements that require that the platform does not support any strong cryptography functionality such as payload

cryptography. To satisfy the import requirements of those countries, the "npe" universal image does not support any strong payload

encryption.

Please see Cisco IOS Release 15.0 Feature Sets and Memory Recommendations for Cisco 1900, 2900, and 3900 Series Routers for

more details.

Cisco IOS Software Packaging for Cisco Switches

Cisco IOS switches can use seven different packages (see figure 8b). Seven switch packages satisfy requirements in different market

categories.

Figure 8b. Cisco IOS Software Packaging for Switches

Note: Not all switch packages are available for all switch models.

The switch packages are:

Layer 2 Base - IEEE 802.1D support, 802.1x point authentication, 802.3ad EtherChannel, 802.1s/w Rapid Spanning Tree, Port

Security, SmartPorts, and SSHv2.

LAN Base - Includes Layer 2 Base plus Advanced 802.1x, Advanced Access Lists (Layer 2-4 filtering, Time Based ACLs, Port

Based ACLs), and Advanced QoS.

IP Base - Includes all the features of LAN Base, plus Edge IP Routing (Static, RIP, EIGRP-STUB & Basic PIM), HSRP/ VRRP,

and GRE Tunneling.

IP Services - Includes all the features of IP Base plus full IP routing (EIGRP, OSPF & PIM), BGP, Policy Based Routing, GLBP,

High Availability, Redundant PR+, Multi-VRF, WAN Protocols1, enhanced QoS functionality (NBAR)1, and Catalyst 6500 Virtual

Switching System.

Advanced IP Services - Includes all the features of IP Services plus additional features including ISIS, MPLS, Layer 2 VPNs,

Layer 3 VPNs, and IPv6.

Enterprise Services - Includes IPv6, all the features of IP Services and additional features for Layer 3 multi-protocol environments,

such as AppleTalk Routing, IPX Routing, and IBM Networking Services.

Advanced Enterprise Services - Includes all the features of IP Services and Enterprise Services.

Cisco IOS Switches Software Activation and Universal Image

The Catalyst 3560-E and 3750-E series switches can run a universal image that has the code for multiple feature sets. Through the software activation process, a license can be installed in the switch and enable a different feature set.

Currently, universal images for Catalyst 3560-E and 3750-E provide the following feature sets depending on the installed license:

IP Base

IP Services

For more information about software activation please see the Cisco Software Activation and Compatibility Document.

Cisco IOS XE Software Packaging

Cisco IOS XE Software is released using consolidated packages. Each consolidated package contains a collection of software sub-

packages. Each software sub-package is an individual software file that controls a different element or elements of the Cisco ASR

Series Routers. Each individual software sub-package can be upgraded individually, or all software sub-packages for a specific

consolidated package can be upgraded as part of a complete consolidated package upgrade.

The consolidated packages are available as images and the integrated IOSd or RPIOS (Route Processor IOS).

For further information on the advantages and disadvantages of running individual sub-packages or a complete Cisco IOS XE Software

consolidated package, and the process of extracting the individual sub-packages, see Cisco ASR 1000 Series Aggregation Services

Router Software Configuration Guide and the Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers bulletin.

Cisco IOS XR Software Packaging

The IOS XR Software equivalent of feature sets is called packages. Unlike Cisco IOS Software, in which the feature sets are defined at

image build time and remain static while the system is in operation, Cisco IOS XR Software can dynamically load and unload software

packages that can deliver one or many features. These software packages are created in versions and can be updated or patched if

necessary to add features or resolve problems, allowing system enhancement and maintenance to take place without requiring a system

restart or disrupting traffic traversing the system In the latest versions of Cisco IOS XR Software for the ASR 9000 series routers there

are two feature sets available, they differ in that one contains 3DES support, for more details please see Cisco ASR 9000 Series Aggregation Services Routers for Cisco IOS XR Release Notes

Cisco NX-OS Software Packaging There is no special feature packaging for Cisco NX-OS, the system image is a single file.

Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software Images

Cisco IOS Software Images

The Cisco IOS Software image name represents the hardware, feature set, format, and other information about the image file. Figure 9 shows the image name of Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(22)T with the Enterprise Base feature set for the Cisco 3825 router.

Figure 9. Example of a Cisco IOS Software Image Name

The show version command displays the name of the Cisco IOS image (see Figure 10)

Figure 10. Cisco IOS Software Release 12.4(22)T Output from the show version Command

Router>show version

Cisco IOS Software, 2800 Software (C2800NM-ADVENTERPRISEK9-M), Version 12.4(22)T,

RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)

Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport

Copyright (c) 1986-2008 by Cisco Systems, Inc.

Compiled Fri 10-Oct-08 00:05 by prod_rel_team

ROM: System Bootstrap, Version 12.4(13r)T, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)

Router uptime is 1 week, 6 days, 8 hours, 26 minutes

System returned to ROM by reload at 19:45:36 UTC Thu Jan 15 2009

System image file is "flash:c2800nm-adventerprisek9-mz.124-22.T.bin"

This product contains cryptographic features and is subject to United

States and local country laws governing import, export, transfer and

use. Delivery of Cisco cryptographic products does not imply

third-party authority to import, export, distribute or use encryption.

Importers, exporters, distributors and users are responsible for

compliance with U.S. and local country laws. By using this product you

agree to comply with applicable laws and regulations. If you are unable

to comply with U.S. and local laws, return this product immediately.

A summary of U.S. laws governing Cisco cryptographic products may be found at:

http://www.cisco.com/wwl/export/crypto/tool/stqrg.html

If you require further assistance please contact us by sending email to

export@cisco.com.

Cisco 2851 (revision 53.50) with 239616K/22528K bytes of memory.

Processor board ID FTX1244A6JG

2 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces

1 terminal line

1 Virtual Private Network (VPN) Module

1 cisco Integrated Service Engine(s)

Cisco Unity Express 3.1.1 in slot 1

DRAM configuration is 64 bits wide with parity enabled.

239K bytes of non-volatile configuration memory.

1982232K bytes of ATA CompactFlash (Read/Write)

Configuration register is 0x2102

Cisco IOS XE Software Images

Figure 11 shows the image name of Cisco IOS XE Software Release 2.1.1 with the IP Base package, this image contains a Cisco IOS Software kernel or IOS daemon (IOSd) version 12.2(33)XNA1.

Figure 11. Example of a Cisco IOS XE Image Name

Figure 12 shows the output of the show version command on a Cisco 1002 router, the system image file name is shown in bold.

Figure 12. Cisco IOS XE Software Release 2.1.1 Output from the show version Command

ASRrouter#show version

Cisco IOS Software, IOS-XE Software (PPC_LINUX_IOSD-IPBASE-M), Version

12.2(33)XNA1, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc1)

Technical Support: http://www.cisco.com/techsupport

Copyright (c) 1986-2008 by Cisco Systems, Inc.

Compiled Tue 08-Jul-08 14:40 by mcpre

Cisco IOS-XE software, Copyright (c) 1986-2008 by Cisco Systems, Inc.

All rights reserved. Certain components of Cisco IOS-XE software are

licensed under the GNU General Public License ("GPL") Version 2.0. The

software code licensed under GPL Version 2.0 is free software that comes

with ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY. You can redistribute and/or modify such

GPL code under the terms of GPL Version 2.0. For more details, see the

documentation or "License Notice" file accompanying the IOS-XE software,

or the applicable URL provided on the flyer accompanying the IOS-XE

software.

ROM: IOS-XE ROMMON

Router uptime is 5 weeks, 5 days, 10 hours, 41 minutes

Uptime for this control processor is 5 weeks, 5 days, 10 hours, 42 minutes

System returned to ROM by reload

System image file is "bootflash:asr1000rp1-ipbase.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.bin"

Last reload reason: Unknown reason

cisco ASR1002 (RP1) processor with 1791829K/6147K bytes of memory.

4 Gigabit Ethernet interfaces

32768K bytes of non-volatile configuration memory.

4194304K bytes of physical memory.

8137567K bytes of eUSB flash at bootflash:.

Configuration register is 0x2102 To determine the versions of the individual sub-packages that are running on the active resource processor (RP) use the show version

rp active running command (See Figure 13.)

Figure 13. Cisco IOS XE Software 2.1.1 Output from the show version rp active running Command

ASR#show version rp active running

Package: Provisioning File, version: n/a, status: active

File: consolidated:packages.conf, on: RP0

Built: n/a, by: n/a

File SHA1 checksum: 6a5070d5b280487d5f89b6f3fc70ff2225728204

Package: rpbase, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-rpbase.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: RP0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: 33204d0f8ef544cdcf5889dd5f56b4a7740a0ef3

Package: rpaccess, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-rpaccess.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: RP0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: 9206c32bf4893076f7af1d522b07b4202de6e5d7

Package: rpcontrol, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-rpcontrol.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: RP0/0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: fa1465740d1b1b8288b38e353cb068bcc835cf71

Package: rpios-ipbase, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-rpios-ipbase.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: RP0/0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: 045b89df5ed1a711dc7906efee29693a8560a8e0

Package: espbase, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-espbase.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: ESP0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: 9ff0f8627b0acc282aa31c35e1b9cd3b1b9f2ac2

Package: sipbase, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-sipbase.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: SIP0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: 6e18c01677e7de04c5eea51dec1e6d461a0b5e91

Package: sipspa, version: 02.01.01.122-33.XNA1, status: active

File: consolidated:asr1000rp1-sipspa.02.01.01.122-33.XNA1.pkg, on: SIP0/0

Built: 2008-07-08_16.38, by: mcpre

File SHA1 checksum: ac8c61b4061905f3e94ef273b2c665e6c2eae0d2

Cisco IOS XR Software Images

Figure 14 shows the image name of Cisco IOS XR Software Release 3.6.1 with the IP/MPLS Core Software 3DES package for the

CRS-1.

Figure 14. Example of a Cisco IOS XR Software Image Name (TAR)

Figure 15 shows the image name of Cisco IOS XR Release 3.6.1 with the Cisco IOS XR Diagnostics package for the CRS-1. The

acronym hfr was an early name for the Cisco CRS-1 Carrier Routing System.

Figure 15. Example of a Cisco IOS XR Software Image Name (PIE)

Example of the show version command on a Cisco CRS-1 router (See figure 13).

Figure 16. Cisco IOS XR Software 3.8.1 Output from the show version Command

RP/0/RP0/CPU0:XR-ROUTER# show version

Thu Jul 30 14:27:41.521 PST

Cisco IOS XR Software, Version 3.8.1[00]

Copyright (c) 2009 by Cisco Systems, Inc.

ROM: System Bootstrap, Version 1.53(20090311:225342) [CRS-1 ROMMON],

XR-ROUTER uptime is 11 hours, 48 minutes

System image file is "bootflash:disk0/hfr-os-mbi-3.8.1/mbihfr-rp.vm"

cisco CRS-16/S (7457) processor with 4194304K bytes of memory.

7457 processor at 1197Mhz, Revision 1.2

2 Management Ethernet

5 TenGigE

29 SONET/SDH

28 Packet over SONET/SDH

1 WANPHY controller(s)

8 GigabitEthernet

1 Asynchronous Transfer Mode

1019k bytes of non-volatile configuration memory.

38079M bytes of hard disk.

2052832k bytes of disk0: (Sector size 512 bytes).

Boot device on node 0/0/CPU0 is bootflash:

Package active on node 0/0/CPU0:

hfr-fpd, V 3.8.1[00], Cisco Systems, at disk0:hfr-fpd-3.8.1

Built on Wed Jul 29 03:41:40 PST 2009

By edde-bld1 in /auto/srcarchive3/production/3.8.1/hfr/workspace for c4.2.1-p0

!-- Output Truncated --

Cisco NX-OS Images

Figure 17 shows the system image name of Cisco NX-OS Software Release 4.2(1), see also the Cisco NX-OS Software Reference Guide.

Figure 17. Example of a Cisco NX-OS Software Image Name

Figure 18 shows the output of the show version command and highlights the system image version and system image file.

Figure 18. Cisco NX-OS Software 4.2(1) Output from the show version Command

switch# show version

Cisco Nexus Operating System (NX-OS) Software

TAC support: http://www.cisco.com/tac

Copyright (c) 2002-2009, Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

The copyrights to certain works contained in this software are

owned by other third parties and used and distributed under

license. Certain components of this software are licensed under

the GNU General Public License (GPL) version 2.0 or the GNU

Lesser General Public License (LGPL) Version 2.1. A copy of each

such license is available at

http://www.opensource.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.php and

http://www.opensource.org/licenses/lgpl-2.1.php

Software

BIOS: version 3.15.0

loader: version N/A

kickstart: version 4.2(1) [gdb]

system: version 4.2(1) [gdb]

BIOS compile time: 03/04/09

kickstart image file is: bootflash:/n7000-s1-kickstart.4.2.1.bin

kickstart compile time: 3/6/2009 2:00:00 [04/02/2009 09:49:07]

system image file is: bootflash:/n7000-s1-dk9.4.2.1.bin

system compile time: 3/6/2009 2:00:00 [04/02/2009 10:28:32]

Hardware

cisco Nexus7000 C7010 (10 Slot) Chassis ("Supervisor module-1X")

Intel(R) Xeon(R) CPU with 2063436 kB of memory.

Processor Board ID JAB10380101

Device name: switch

bootflash: 1023120 kB

slot0: 0 kB (expansion flash)

Kernel uptime is 2 day(s), 17 hour(s), 26 minute(s), 1 second(s)

Last reset at 121426 usecs after Sun Apr 13 20:38:08 2009

Reason: Reset Requested by CLI command reload

System version: 4.2(1)

Service:

!-- Output Truncated --

Tools and Resources

Table 8 briefly describes some of the most useful Cisco tools for planning a Cisco IOS Software release migration.

Table 8. Tools and Resources

Tool Description

Cisco Security Advisories Responses, and Notices

The Cisco PSIRT creates and maintains publications for security issues that affect Cisco products.

Bug Toolkit (registered customers only) Searches for known bugs based on software version, feature set, and keywords.

Cisco Product/Technology Support Documentation for each release of Cisco IOS and NX-OS Software.

Feature Navigator (registered customers only) Find releases that support a set of software features and platforms, and compare different releases.

Software Advisor (registered customers only) Compares IOS releases, matches IOS features to releases, and determines which software release supports a given hardware device.

Download Software ( registered customers only)

Download software, select by product type.

Cisco Security Intelligence Operations Early-warning intelligence, threat and vulnerability analysis, and proven Cisco mitigation solutions to help protect networks.

End-of-Life End-of-Life information.

Cisco Applied Mitigation Bulletins These bulletins describe techniques that use Cisco product abilities to detect and mitigate exploits.

How to Choose a Cisco IOS Software Release

Provides guidelines to help choose the most appropriate Cisco IOS Software release to meet requirements and provides suggestions and tools to aid in this process.

Acknowledgments

A number of individuals have contributed to this document.

Last updated by Juan-Manuel Gonzalez (juagonza@cisco.com). Network Consulting Engineer.

References

Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/products/ps6642/prod_white_papers_list.html

Cisco IOS XE Software for Cisco ASR 1000 Series Routers http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/routers/ps9343/product_bulletin_c25-448387.html

Cisco IOS XE Software End-of-Life Guidelines http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/routers/ps9343/product_bulletin_c25-448258.html

Cisco NX-OS Software Reference Guide

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/iosswrel/ps9494/ps9372/White_Paper_C11-451629.html

Cisco IOS Software Modularity on the Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series Switch http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/switches/ps5718/ps708/prod_white_paper0900aecd80313e09.html

Cisco IOS Packaging Product Bulletin (Registered customers only)

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/customer/prod/collateral/iosswrel/ps8802/ps5460/prod_bulletin0900aecd80281b17.html

Cisco IOS Software Product Lifecycle Dates & Milestones

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/iosswrel/ps8802/ps6969/ps1835/prod_bulletin0900aecd801eda8a_ps6350_Products_Bulletin.html

Cisco IOS Packaging Customer Q&A (Registered customers only)

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/customer/products/sw/iosswrel/ps5460/products_qanda_item09186a00801af2c6.shtml

Cisco Software Activation and Compatibility Document

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/switches/lan/catalyst3750e_3560e/software/release/12.2_50_se/configuration/note/swactivn.html#w

p52909

Cisco IOS Release 15.0 Feature Sets and Memory Recommendations for Cisco 1900, 2900 and 3900 Series Routers

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/prod/collateral/iosswrel/ps8802/ps5460/product_bulletin_c25-566278_ps10537_Products_Bulletin.html

This document is part of the Cisco Security Intelligence Operations.

This document is provided on an "as is" basis and does not imply any kind of guarantee or warranty, including the warranties of

merchantability or fitness for a particular use. Your use of the information on the document or materials linked from the document is at your own risk. Cisco reserves the right to change or update this document at any time.

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