Upgrade Catalyst C9500 16X? Which software?

[CiscoBrownBelt]

Looks like a service pack is being used - current 16.0.9 version.

To upgrade I would just install another and/or latest service pack correct? 

Currently "show boot" points to a packages.conf, so would the new package be similar (I am used to pointing to just a IOS-XE etc. .bin file)? What if I did not use a SPA package and uploaded and ran a new IOSXE.bin image? We don't do anything fancy on this switch, I assume it is license/feature significant?

[marce1000 · Accepted solution]

 - Pointing to packages.conf (boot variable/setting) just means that the switch is install mode; do not deviate from that because it is more efficient ; for considering new releases : take a look at gold-starred versions :
           https://software.cisco.com/download/home/286314354/type/282046477/release/Cupertino-17.9.3

 M.

[Leo Laohoo]

What is the intention:

1.  Upgrade the firmware and reboot immediately; or 
2.  Upgrade the firmware and reboot at a later date?

[CiscoBrownBelt]

Upgrade firmware and reboot immediately.

[Leo Laohoo]

1.  Save the config

2.  Use the command "sh boot" to make sure the boot variable string is pointing to "packages.conf".  

3.  Copy the firmware into the switch. 

4.  Use the command "install add file bootflash:filename.bin activate commit".  About three minutes in, the process will stop to ask for a "y/n" question.  Choose "y" and the switches will reboot soon after.

[CiscoBrownBelt]

I have a C9500-16X with standard DNA license. Should I be using the -A software here :

https://software.cisco.com/download/home/286314394/type/282046477/release/Fuji-16.9.4

[marce1000]

  - Examine your complete switch model info by using the command : show version , 

  M.