Keeping your network infrastructure up to date is essential for maintaining performance, security, and stability. The Cisco Catalyst 3850 series is widely deployed in enterprise networks, and upgrading to the latest recommended software ensures you have the latest bug fixes, features, and security patches. This detailed guide walks you through the process of upgrading a WS-3850-24T-L from IOS XE 16.09.08 to 16.12.13 in Install Mode — from preparation to verification.
enable)WS-3850-24T-Lcat3k_caa-universalk9.16.09.08.SPA.bincat3k_caa-universalk9.16.12.13.SPA.bin192.168.1.10), SCP, or USBaa277fa2cf9bcd8519ac1f567a7a090bshow version, show boot, show inventory) to compare after upgradeshow version
show boot dir flash:
copy running-config startup-config copy running-config tftp:
request platform software package clean switch all
To Manually delete the directory use
delete /force /recursive flash:/old_version_directory
copy tftp://192.168.1.10/cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.12.13.SPA.bin flash:
dir flash:
verify /md5 flash:cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.12.13.SPA.bin
show boot system
request platform software package install switch all file flash:cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.12.13.SPA.bin
Use below command for stacks switches
request platform software package install switch all file flash:cat3k_caa-universalk9.16.12.13.SPA.bin auto-copy
write memory reload
show version show boot
request platform software package clean switch all
By following these steps, you can smoothly upgrade your Cisco Catalyst 3850 switch while minimizing downtime and ensuring system stability. Always verify prerequisites, perform backups, and check MD5 integrity before installation to avoid potential issues. Regular upgrades not only fix bugs and patch vulnerabilities but also ensure compatibility with modern networking features — keeping your network secure and efficient.
