Overview
This guide provides comprehensive instructions and best practices for upgrading or downgrading NX-OS software on Nexus 9000 Series switches, including detailed procedures for standard and enhanced In-Service Software Upgrades (ISSU). It also covers specialized topics such as transceiver firmware upgrade, modular package optionality using RPM and DNF commands, and the technical steps required to convert switches between NX-OS and ACI boot modes.
What's changed in this guide
This table summarizes the new and changed features in this guide for Release 10.6(x) and provides links to the sections where they are documented.
| Feature |
Description |
Changed in Release |
Where Documented |
|---|---|---|---|
| MACsec ND ISSU |
Added support for ND ISSU on MACsec-enabled interfaces on Nexus 9300-GX2, H2R, and H1 switches |
10.6(2)F |
|
| Transceiver firmware upgrade using NX-OS commands |
Added support for transceiver firmware upgrade using the NX-OS command framework on N9364E-SG2-Q and N9364E-SG2-O switches |
10.6(2)F |
|
| Software image for Smart switches |
Introduced a new software image for N9324C-SE1U and N9348Y2C6D-SE1U Smart switches |
10.6(2)F |
|
| NA |
No new features added for this release | 10.6(1)F |
NA |
Preface
Upgrade or Downgrade the Nexus 9000 Series NX-OS Software
This chapter explains how to manage software upgrades and downgrades for Nexus 9000 Series switches, including the use of standard and enhanced In-Service Software Upgrades (ISSU) to minimize network downtime.
Transceiver Firmware
This chapter explains how the transceiver firmware or embedded software updates for Nexus 9000 optical modules are designed to optimize performance, address security vulnerabilities, and maintain compliance with current industry standards. These upgrades are managed through the NX-OS command framework using specific phases such as—Download, Activate, Run, and Commit—allowing for either disruptive or non-disruptive bulk updates across multiple interfaces.
Optionality in NX-OS Software
This chapter explains how the NX-OS modular package management allows for the selective addition, removal, and upgrade of specific features without altering the base software. It also details the differences between Base and Full boot modes and the use of RPM and DNF tools to manage these optional packages for a leaner system footprint.
Convert from NX-OS to ACI boot mode and from ACI boot mode back to NX-OS
This chapter explains how to transition Nexus 9000 Series switches between NX-OS and ACI boot modes by following specific image installation and configuration procedures. It also details recovery methods using the loader prompt and hardware considerations, such as necessary RAM upgrades and dual-supervisor synchronization, to ensure a successful mode conversion.
Migrate Switches in a vPC Topology
This chapter explains how to migrate from one pair of Nexus 9000 Series switches to another within a vPC topology, covering both forklift upgrades and specific procedures for the -R series models. It outlines the necessary steps to manage peer-link shutdowns, auto-recovery configurations, and simultaneous reloads to ensure network stability and minimize traffic impact during the transition between software releases.