Verdict (concise)
cat9kv-prd-17.12.01prd9.qcow2 virtual disk image for the Cisco Catalyst 9000v (IOS-XE 17.12.01)
(Cat9Kv) switch, specifically running IOS-XE version . It is primarily designed for network simulation and lab environments like Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) , GNS3 , and EVE-NG . How to Access the Image
Finally, the extension reveals the file’s true technical identity. QEMU Copy-On-Write version 2 is an open-source disk image format used primarily by virtualization platforms like KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) and Proxmox. Unlike simple ISO files or raw binary dumps, qcow2 offers sophisticated features: snapshots, compression, encryption, and efficient sparse allocation (where empty space in the virtual disk does not consume real host storage). The choice of qcow2 is deliberate. It implies that this virtual Catalyst switch is designed for dynamic, iterative workflows. A developer can spin up the switch, run a series of configuration tests, take a snapshot before a risky change, and roll back instantly—a workflow impossible with physical hardware. The qcow2 format transforms a static operating system image into a living laboratory.
Cisco does not provide this image as a standalone free download. To obtain it legally: Cisco Modeling Labs (CML): The image is bundled with the CML (formerly VIRL) software package. CML Reference Platform ISO: If you have a CML license, the file is located within the ISO file (e.g., refplat-20240225-fcs.iso Implementation in Emulators If you already have the image and need to use it: You must create a specific directory (e.g., /opt/unetlab/addons/qemu/cat9kv-17.12.01-prd9 ) and rename the file to virtioa.qcow2 for the emulator to recognize it. You can import the file directly using the Cisco Catalyst 9000v appliance template from the GNS3 marketplace. Requirements
The file is the virtual disk image for the Cisco Catalyst 9000v
Create a directory: /opt/unetlab/addons/qemu/cat9kv-17.12.01-prd9 .