Nxosv9k-7.0.3.i7.4.qcow2 -

Cisco recommends downloading this image via the official Cisco Software Download portal (requires a valid SmartNet contract for N9Kv). Have you had success running this image on VMware Workstation vs. KVM? Let us know in the comments below!

Deep Dive into Cisco NX-OSv 9000: Exploring nxosv9k-7.0.3.I7.4.qcow2

Today, we are taking a close look at a specific, legacy-but-stable release: . nxosv9k-7.0.3.i7.4.qcow2

Once booted (allow 5 minutes for the first boot), you will hit the loader prompt, then the switch boots automatically.

If you are studying for CCIE DC, or need to test a VXLAN fabric upgrade path, this image is a fantastic resource. Cisco recommends downloading this image via the official

At first glance, using a 7.x release seems dated. However, this specific image has a cult following among CCIE Data Center candidates and lab builders.

Username: admin Password: admin N9Kv# configure terminal N9Kv(config)# feature interface-vlan N9Kv(config)# feature bgp N9Kv(config)# feature nv overlay N9Kv(config)# feature vn-segment-vlan-based Let us know in the comments below

When you boot 7.0.3.I7.4 , it will be in "Nexus 9000v" mode. You will likely see No license installed. However, the virtual switch operates in or Evaluation mode. For lab purposes, the image generally runs all L2/L3 features (including VXLAN) for an unlimited evaluation period.