Release 5.2.2 was a significant milestone in the evolution of IOS XR, bridging the gap between traditional CLI management and modern automation.
The iosxrv-k9-demo-5.2.2.ova is more than just a virtual machine template; it is a portal into the world of carrier-grade routing. While it is not a replacement for physical hardware in a production environment, it remains an indispensable tool for education, prototyping, and automation development.
You should use this OVA if:
You should avoid this OVA if:
Ultimately, the longevity of the iosxrv-k9-demo-5.2.2.ova in professional labs speaks to the robustness of the IOS XR platform. Even as newer versions emerge, this specific build remains a reliable, well-documented standard for network engineers who need to get real work done without real hardware.
Disclaimer: Cisco, IOS XR, and ASR 9000 are registered trademarks of Cisco Systems, Inc. This article is for educational purposes. Ensure you comply with all software licensing agreements when downloading and using the iosxrv-k9-demo-5.2.2.ova file. iosxrv-k9-demo-5.2.2.ova
The iosxrv-k9-demo-5.2.2.ova is a virtual appliance file for the Cisco IOS XRv Router, a virtualized platform designed to run the 32-bit Cisco IOS XR software on the QNX microkernel. As a "demo" version, it is specifically intended for training, familiarization, and early field trials (EFT) of control plane features. Core Technical Specifications
This specific version (5.2.2) is built for simulation environments like EVE-NG, GNS3, or direct deployment on VMware ESXi. Virtual CPU (vCPU): Requires a minimum of 1 vCPU.
Memory (vRAM): Requires 3072 MB (3GB) of RAM to function correctly.
Architecture: Runs 32-bit IOS XR on a QNX microkernel, appearing to the software as an x86-based machine.
Interfaces: Supports up to 128 interfaces, though typical virtual deployments use a smaller subset. Interface 0 is reserved for Management Ethernet. Deployment & Use Cases Release 5
The OVA format is standard for VMware platforms but can be converted for other hypervisors.
Direct Import: Can be imported into VMware Fusion or Workstation via File -> Import.
EVE-NG Integration: To use this file in EVE-NG, you must uncompress the OVA to extract the .vmdk file and then convert it to .qcow2 format using the qemu-img tool.
Initial Setup: Default credentials are often admin with no password. It follows a "two-stage" configuration process, meaning changes must be explicitly committed to take effect. Demo Restrictions Cisco XRv - - EVE-NG
Cisco XRv - Cisco XRv. Versions this guide is based on: EVE Image Foldername. Downloaded Filename. Version. vCPUs. vRAM. xrv-k9-5. Cisco IOS XRv Router Installation and Configuration Guide You should avoid this OVA if:
This OVA was designed for:
It is not intended for data plane performance testing. The “demo” image typically has severe throughput limitations (often kilobits per second) and limited interface counts.
After import, power off the VM and adjust:
Legally, this image was available via Cisco.com (Software Download) to customers with a valid service contract under "IOS XRv – Demo Version." Always ensure you comply with Cisco licensing.