Cisco IOS XE Fuji 16.9/5, like other software versions, has specific compatibility considerations regarding supported and unsupported features. This article clarifies these aspects and provides essential information about accessing hidden commands and microcode backward compatibility.
Understanding the features supported by a specific Cisco IOS XE release is crucial for network administrators. While 16.9/5 offers a robust set of functionalities, certain features are not available in this version.
Unsupported features in Cisco IOS XE Fuji 16.9/5 include:
- Bluetooth
- Cisco TrustSec Network Device Admission Control (NDAC) on Uplinks
- Converged Access for Branch Deployments
- Gateway Load Balancing Protocol (GLBP)
- IPsec VPN
- Performance Monitoring (PerfMon)
- VRF-Aware web authentication
For a comprehensive list of supported features in Cisco IOS XE Fuji 16.9/5, consult the Cisco Feature Navigator: https://www.cisco.com/go/cfn. This resource provides a detailed breakdown of functionalities available for each platform and software version.
Accessing hidden commands within Cisco IOS XE has evolved. Since Fuji 16.8.1a, enhanced security measures have changed how these commands are accessed. Hidden commands, intended for advanced troubleshooting by Cisco TAC, are now categorized:
-
Category 1: Accessible in privileged or User EXEC mode using the
service internalcommand. These commands now have CLI help available. -
Category 2: Found within specific configuration modes (global, interface, etc.) and do not require the
service internalcommand. These also have CLI help.
Using a hidden command triggers a %PARSER-5-HIDDEN syslog message, warning about its undocumented nature and potential removal in future releases. Cisco strongly recommends using hidden commands only under the guidance of Cisco TAC.
Downgrading from Cisco IOS XE Gibraltar 16.12.1 or later to specific earlier releases (Everest 16.6.1 through 16.6.6 or Fuji 16.9.1 through 16.9.2) necessitates a microcode downgrade. Failure to downgrade the microcode can negatively impact Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality after the software downgrade. Detailed instructions for microcode downgrade during installation can be found in the Release Notes for Cisco Catalyst 9300 Series Switches, Cisco IOS XE Gibraltar 16.12.x: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst9300/software/release/16-12/release_notes/ol-16-12-9300.html#task_wbw_vzf_j3b
In conclusion, understanding the compatibility nuances of Cisco IOS XE Fuji 16.9/5, particularly regarding unsupported features, hidden command access, and microcode backward compatibility, is essential for successful network operation and maintenance. Always refer to official Cisco documentation and consult with Cisco TAC when dealing with unsupported or hidden commands.
