SHA256: provided only on Cisco download page
The file nxos64-cs.10.2.4.M.bin is a 64-bit maintenance release image of the Cisco NX-OS operating system, specifically designed for the Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches. This software image represents a critical component for network administrators maintaining data center infrastructure, as it belongs to the "Long-lived" maintenance train (indicated by the "M" suffix), which prioritizes stability and bug fixes over new feature sets. Overview of the Software Image
The naming convention of the file provides specific technical details about its application:
nxos64-cs: Indicates a 64-bit "Cloud Scale" image. This image is supported on nearly all Nexus 9000 fixed-configuration switches (such as the -EX, -FX, -FX2, and -GX series) and modular chassis.
10.2(4): The version number. Release 10.2(4)M became available around October 27, 2022.
M: Denotes a Maintenance Release. These releases are aimed at stabilizing the software through extensive bug fixes rather than introducing new hardware or software capabilities. Key Features and Enhancements in 10.2(4)M
While this release focuses on stability, it included specific enhancements for the Nexus 9000 platform: nxos64-cs.10.2.4.m.bin download
Nexus Cloud Telemetry: Introduced the ability to onboard supported Nexus switches to Cisco Nexus Cloud, enabling advanced telemetry and cloud-based management.
Periodic ARP Refresh: Added a new command to configure intervals for ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) refreshes when MAC addresses are deleted, improving L3 VLAN interface tracking.
Scale Enhancements: Provided updated scalability limits for various network protocols, which are detailed in the Cisco Verified Scalability Guide. Download and Installation Requirements
To download and use this image, users must follow official Cisco procedures:
Access Requirements: Downloading requires a valid Cisco.com login and an active service contract (e.g., SmartNet) associated with the hardware.
Download Location: The file is found at the Cisco Software Central under Switches > Data Center Switches > Nexus 9000 Series. SHA256: provided only on Cisco download page
Upgrade Path: Before installing, administrators should use the Cisco Software Advisor to verify the upgrade path from their current version, as some jumps may require intermediate "hop" releases.
Hardware Compatibility: This "cs" prefix image is not supported on Nexus 9500 -R and -R2 series modular switches, which require the "msll" image variant instead. Best Practices for Deployment
nxos64-cs.10.2.4.M.bin is a 64-bit software image for the Cisco Nexus 9000 Series switches, specifically for Release 10.2(4)M. Key Specifications & Support Release Version: Image Type: 64-bit image (indicated by the Supported Platforms: This image is supported on all Cisco Nexus 9000 series fixed switches 9000 series modular switches equipped with FM-E, FM-E2, or FM-G fabric modules. Excluded Platforms: It is generally Nexus 9500 -R and -R2 series modular switches, which typically use the nxos64-msll image instead. Download Instructions
To download this official image, you must have a valid Cisco service contract and account: Navigate to the Cisco Software Download navigator. Follow the path: Switches > Data Center Switches > Cisco Nexus 9000 Series Switches
Select your specific hardware model (e.g., Nexus 93180YC-FX3). NX-OS Software and look for Release 10.2(4)M Locate the file nxos64-cs.10.2.4.M.bin and click download. Notable Features in 10.2(4)M Periodic ARP Refresh on MAC Delete:
Enhances L3 VLAN interfaces to track MAC deletions and send ARP refreshes. Nexus Cloud Telemetry: The file nxos64-cs
Support for onboarding switches to Nexus Cloud for telemetry collection. Consolidation:
Beginning with this era of NX-OS (10.1.x/10.2.x), Cisco transitioned from 32-bit to 64-bit as the primary standard. Implementation Tip
If you are transferring this file from a macOS (Ventura or later) machine using SCP, you may encounter a "subsystem request failed" error because of changes to the default SCP protocol. Use the flag to force the legacy protocol: scp -O nxos64-cs.10.2.4.M.bin admin@
for this specific image to verify its integrity after your download?
Copy .bin to a FAT32-formatted USB drive, insert into switch, then:
switch# copy usb1:nxos64-cs.10.2.4.m.bin bootflash:/
Verify transfer:
switch# dir bootflash:
Look for the file and note its size (should match source).
switch# copy scp://user@192.168.1.100/nxos64-cs.10.2.4.m.bin bootflash:/
