Download Cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 May 2026

qemu-img convert -f qcow2 -O vmdk cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.vmdk

Then create a new VM, attach the VMDK as an existing disk, and set the guest OS to “Other Linux (64-bit)”.

The image cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 is a reliable, production-grade virtual switch that bridges the gap between software emulation and physical hardware. Whether you are preparing for a CCIE lab, validating a SD-Access fabric design, or testing IOS XE automation scripts, this image will serve as a solid foundation.

Remember: always download directly from Cisco, respect licensing terms, and never use unvalidated images in a production network.

Have you deployed Cat9kv in your lab? Share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below.

The cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 file is a virtual disk image for the Cisco Catalyst 9000V (Cat9kv), a virtualized version of Cisco’s Catalyst 9000 series hardware switches. This specific version (17.12.1) is part of the IOS XE Dublin release cycle and is primarily used by network engineers for labbing, testing, and automation. How to Acquire the Image

There are two primary legitimate ways to obtain this .qcow2 file:

Cisco Modeling Labs (CML): This image is included in the reference platform ISO that comes with a Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) subscription.

Cisco Software Central: Users with the appropriate service contracts can download Catalyst 9000V software directly from the Cisco Software Download portal. Technical Specifications & Requirements download cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2

Because this image simulates complex hardware ASICs (like the UADP 2.0), it is resource-intensive.

Memory: Requires at least 16GB to 24GB of RAM to function correctly.

vCPUs: At least 2 vCPUs are recommended for acceptable boot times.

Supported Platforms: Commonly used in network emulators like EVE-NG, GNS3, and PNETLab. Key Features of Release 17.12.1 Catalyst 9000v - - EVE-NG

The file cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 is a recommended download for users running KVM/QEMU environments.

The cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 is the virtual disk image for the Cisco Catalyst 9000v (IOS-XE) virtual switch. This specific version is primarily bundled with Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) 2.7 and is used for network emulation in environments like CML, EVE-NG, and GNS3. 1. Official Download Methods

Because the Catalyst 9000v is a licensed product, you cannot typically download the .qcow2 file as a standalone free item from the standard Cisco software portal. qemu-img convert -f qcow2 -O vmdk cat9kv-prd-17

Cisco Modeling Labs (CML): The most reliable way to obtain this image is by purchasing a CML subscription. The image is included in the Reference Platform (refplat) ISO (specifically version rrefplat-20240225-fcs.iso or later).

Cisco Software Central: If you have a valid service contract for Cisco virtual products, check the Cisco Software Download page. However, many users find that the virtual image is only accessible through the CML entitlement. 2. Using the Image in EVE-NG

Once you have obtained the file, you must follow specific naming conventions to use it in EVE-NG:

Directory Naming: Create a folder in /opt/unetlab/addons/qemu/ starting with the prefix cat9kv-. For example: mkdir /opt/unetlab/addons/qemu/cat9kv-17.12.01-prd9.

Filename Requirement: Move the file into that directory and rename it exactly to virtioa.qcow2.

Fix Permissions: Run the EVE-NG permission fix command: /opt/unetlab/wrappers/unl_wrapper -a fixpermissions. 3. Key Specifications for Deployment

The 17.12.01prd9 image supports three distinct boot modes depending on your lab requirements: Interface Count Regular UDAP 9 (8 data + 1 mgmt) Silicon 1 Q200 25 (24 data + 1 mgmt) UADP Mode 25 (24 data + 1 mgmt) 4. Important Considerations Then create a new VM, attach the VMDK

Resource Requirements: These switches are resource-intensive. Ensure your host machine has at least 18GB of RAM available per instance if using UADP mode.

Licensing: While the image may boot without a license, advanced features (like certain BGP or DNA Center integrations) may require a Smart License through Cisco.

Third-Party Sites: While various "lab image" sites host these files, use them at your own risk. Always validate the file integrity (MD5/SHA checksums) against official Cisco documentation if possible. Catalyst 9000v - - EVE-NG

I cannot directly retrieve or provide the full file content for download cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2. That filename appears to be a Cisco Catalyst 9000v (virtual switch/router) QEMU disk image, which is proprietary software.

Here’s what you need to know:

Even experienced engineers encounter issues. Here is how to solve them: