IOS Recommendation for Brand new Cisco WS-C3650-24TD

[CSCO12094806]

Dear All,

we are in the process of brand new Cisco 3650 Switch installation, switch came with IOS version 16.6.3 (as mentioned below).

Cisco IOS Software [Everest]

SW Version: 16.6.3

SW Image:  CAT3K_CAA-UNIVERSALK9 

Mode: Install.

BOOTLDR: CAT3K_CAA Boot Loader (CAT3K_CAA-HBOOT-M) Version 3.56

But for Catalyst 3650-24TD-S, Cisco Suggested release based on software quality,stability and longevity ios will be Denali-16.3.6 (https://software.cisco.com/download/home/284850601/type/282046477/release/Denali-16.3.6?i=!pp7), that means older version (as compared with existing version).

could you please advice do we need to downgrade switch ios (from 16.6.3 to 16.3.6).

if yes what will be the procedure for the same.

expecting advanced technical advice at the earliest as tomorrow we need to make complete the installation.

[Georg Pauwen]

Hello,

they are up to Fuji 16.8.x in the meantime, if you run Everest 16.6.3. don't do anything, that is, don't downgrade.

[balaji.bandi]

I do not see any issue here Standard downgrade procedure should work.

https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst3650/software/release/16-6/release_notes/ol-16-6-3650.html#pgfId-1376185

BB

[CSCO12094806]

Hi Georg Pauwen /balaji.band Thanks for your response, but still we are confused whether we need to go with existing IOS (16.6.3) or cisco recommended (16.3.6).

Hi Balaji, above shared link discuss only downgrade from Cisco IOS XE 16.x.x to older Cisco IOS XE 3.xE.

can we follow same procedure for 16.06.03 to 16.3.6 downgrade.

Regards

ASAMEDT

[CSCO12094806]

Hi Balaji, to remove the log file (after switch reload) which command we need to run "software clean" or "request platform software package clean switch all file flash:"

[Leo Laohoo]

For stability purposes, use the latest 3.7.X.

[CSCO12094806]

Hi Leo Laohoo, Yes, but as per our understanding cisco are in the process of migration of all switches ios with new ios series 16.x.x or above (common ios).
if we install 3.7.x now later cisco will stop the support /patch for same ios and eventually we force to do upgrade to 16.x.x or above.
now cisco site showing as Denali-16.3.6 MD (https://software.cisco.com/download/home/284850601/type/282046477/release/Denali-16.3.6?i=!pp) is stable and recommended for the c3650 model switch. so we need to understand is there any dependency for downgrading ios from 16.6.3 to 16.3.6.
very much appreciated for your valuable technical advice.

[CSCO12094806 · Accepted solution]

Dear All, two day back we have successfully downgrade the IOS to cisco recommended version (Denali-16.3.6 MD).

as of now switch working perfectly.

Thanks all of your valuable inputs.

Regards

ASAMED