Here are the only legal and safe ways to get the image:
Are you having trouble getting your Nexus 9k to boot in EVE-NG?
While "free download" links often lead to sketchy mirrors, the most reliable way to get this legally is through: Cisco Software Central: If you have a service contract, you can download the Nexus 9000v image Cisco Modeling Labs (CML): nxosv9k-7.0.3.i7.4.qcow2 free download
Choose 'no' to bypass complex password requirements during setup.
One of the most popular platforms for running the .qcow2 image is . Below is the standard workflow used by the EVE-NG community for adding a Cisco Nexus 9000v switch. Here are the only legal and safe ways
The NX-OSv 9000 is a "heavy" node that requires significant resources to run smoothly in a virtual environment:
: Ensure the software version you are downloading is compatible with your hardware (in this case, Nexus 9000 series switches). Below is the standard workflow used by the
The file is a specific, highly sought-after Virtual Machine image of Cisco’s NX-OS (Network Operating System) designed for the Nexus 9000v virtual switch. It allows you to run a fully functional Nexus switch inside a hypervisor like KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine), QEMU, or even converted for VMware ESXi.
By leveraging legitimate software channels like CML, network professionals can safely build complex data center topologies, practice EVPN fabrics, and prepare for industry certifications without violating compliance guidelines.
The official way to get virtual Cisco images is through a Cisco Modeling Labs subscription.