Cisco WS-C3850-24XS IOS upgrade

[uni1389]

Hi ,

I have 2xWS-C3850-24XS with 16.09.06 release, now I have to upgrade them with latest available release. I have seen the  IOS XE Software- Fuji-16.9.8(MD) is available for upgrade.

Do I need Cisco Smart licescing for this upgrade or not . Secondly can I Gibraltar-16.12.10a(MD) what are the difference between these verions. Like Fuji, Gibralter and Everest . 

show version

Cisco IOS XE Software, Version 16.09.06 Cisco IOS Software [Fuji], Catalyst L3 Switch Software (CAT3K_CAA-UNIVERSALK9-M), Version 16.9.6, RELEASE SOFTWARE (fc2)

Switch Ports Model SW Version SW Image Mode

------ ----- ----- ---------- ---------- ----

* 1 34 WS-C3850-24XS 16.09.06 CAT3K_CAA-UNIVERSALK9 BUNDLE

Thanks in advance for your tips. 

[balaji.bandi]

Do I need Cisco Smart licescing for this upgrade or not  - you do not need smart License to upgrade, but  yes above 16.9.X version (certain onwards all required smallk License) - you have different method of smart License you can use.

After Upgrade latest code you need to activate smart License, if the switch has base License it will not going to take any effect either you have smart license or not.

Gibraltar-16.12.10a(MD) what are the difference between these verions. Like Fuji, Gibralter and Everest .  - all are same different versions named different names,

alsways look for 5 * version

https://software.cisco.com/download/home/286280248/type/282046477/release/Gibraltar-16.12.10a

until you are hitting any bugs you can use specific higher version

since you are using bundle mode - when you upgrade take advantage of install mode moving forward.

check upgrade document :

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/switches/catalyst-3850-series-switches/117552-technote-cat3850-00.html

[M02@rt37]

Hello @uni1389 

The Fuji release is the 16.9.x train. This is the software version you currently have (16.09.06). Each train represents a set of features, stability improvements, and bug fixes. It's generally recommended to upgrade to a later release within the same train for bug fixes and security updates.

Gibraltar is the 16.12.x train. It's a newer release and may include additional features, enhancements, and bug fixes compared to the Fuji train. Before upgrading, review the release notes for Gibraltar to ensure compatibility with your current configuration and to understand the new features.

Everest is an earlier release train (16.6.x). It might be used in environments where long-term stability is a priority. It's not the latest train but could be considered if you prioritize a more established code base.

Before upgrading, always check the release notes for the target software version. This document provides information about new features, bug fixes, and any potential issues.

[Leo Laohoo]

Cisco 3850: IOS-XE/Firmware Upgrade

[uni1389]

Thanks guys! do we have any version that dont need Smart licensing. thanks again.

[balaji.bandi]

do we have any version that dont need Smart licensing

check below guide can give you guidence what version smart License start from :

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ios-nx-os-software/ios-xe-bengaluru-1761/217897-compare-traditional-licensing-smart-lic.html#toc-hId--300478053

If you going to back to OLD version cisco do not have support.

If you have License you can use different method to register License as i mentioned before in that post.

i would always go with latest with bug fixes rather looking smart License.

[M02@rt37]

@uni1389 

Smart Licensing become mandatory since IOS XE 16.9

[Leo Laohoo]

---

@uni1389 wrote:
do we have any version that dont need Smart licensing.

---

16.6.X and earlier.  

[uni1389]

Hi , 

Currently switch showing the following status for license. I need to understand , this switch is not configured with license right now and we need to configure it thorugh Smart licencing . Right ?

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

Technology Package License Information:

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Technology-package Technology-package
Current Type Next reboot
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ipbasek9 Smart License ipbasek9
None Subscription Smart License None

Smart Licensing Status: UNREGISTERED/EVAL EXPIRED

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * 

With best wishes. 

[Forestylan]

I've noticed that IOS XE Software versions like Fuji-16.9.8(MD) and Gibraltar-16.12.10a(MD) are available for upgrade. I'm uncertain whether Cisco Smart Licensing is required for this upgrade, and I'm seeking clarification on this matter. I'm curious about the differences between these versions, such as Fuji, Gibraltar, and Everest, and how they might impact my managed office space in Sydney network's performance and stability.

[Leo Laohoo]

CSL is not required.  If the perpetual RTU license "expires", nothing will happen.