Cisco Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen 8352V 36-Core Processor Upgrade

The Cisco Intel Xeon Platinum (3rd Gen) 8352V Hexatriaconta-core upgrade brings enterprise-grade processing power to Cisco servers, delivering exceptional performance, reliability, and efficiency for data centers, virtualization environments, and mission-critical workloads. Built on Intel’s 3rd Generation Xeon Platinum architecture, this processor is engineered to handle heavy multitasking, large-scale databases, and real-time analytics with confidence. With a 36-core design and a 2.10 GHz base clock, it enables sustained throughput across dense virtualized environments, helping IT teams consolidate workloads, accelerate service delivery, and reduce total cost of ownership. This upgrade is purpose-built for Cisco server ecosystems, offering strong compatibility, streamlined lifecycle management, and long-term performance headroom for evolving workloads.

• High core density for scalable virtualization: With 36 cores, the 3rd Gen Xeon Platinum architecture accelerates multi-tenant and multi-VM environments, enabling more virtual machines per server and smoother performance under heavy consolidation. This makes it ideal for enterprises and service providers running large-scale virtualized infrastructures, private clouds, and data-intensive workloads without compromising latency or responsiveness.
• Robust enterprise performance at 2.10 GHz base: The 2.10 GHz base frequency provides solid single-thread performance while maintaining strong multi-threaded throughput for parallel workloads. This balance supports balanced workloads—from transactional databases and ERP systems to analytics pipelines and real-time processing—ensuring predictable performance under varying load conditions.
• Efficient, reliable, and security-focused: Built for reliability (RAS) and strong security features, the Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen offers error-correcting capabilities, memory protection, and cryptographic acceleration to safeguard data and workloads. This upgrade helps organizations maintain service levels, protect sensitive information, and meet compliance requirements in regulated industries.
• Cisco-optimized compatibility and lifecycle fit: Designed as a drop-in upgrade for Cisco servers that support Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen processors, this SKU aligns with Cisco firmware, BIOS updates, and certification requirements. Customers benefit from smoother firmware coordination, validated upgrade paths, and simplified ongoing maintenance within existing Cisco architectures.
• Ideal for demanding enterprise workloads: This processor upgrade is well-suited for virtualization hosts, large-scale databases, business intelligence, ERP, and data analytics environments. It also supports throughput-intensive workloads such as consolidation, cloud-ready services, and edge computing initiatives, delivering consistent performance across mission-critical apps and services.

Technical Details of Cisco Intel Xeon Platinum (3rd Gen) 8352V Hexatriaconta-core (36 Core) 2.10 GHz Processor Upgrade

• Processor family: Intel Xeon Platinum (3rd Gen) family
• Model: 8352V
• Cores: 36 cores
• Base clock speed: 2.10 GHz
• Socket compatibility: Designed to fit Cisco server motherboards that support Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen CPUs
• Target platform: Enterprise servers within Cisco infrastructure, optimized for reliability and scalable performance
• Security and reliability features: Includes hardware-based security and reliability enhancements typical of Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen processors, designed to protect data integrity and enhance fault tolerance

How to install Cisco Intel Xeon Platinum (3rd Gen) 8352V

• Power down the server and unplug all power sources. Ground yourself to prevent static discharge before handling components.
• Open the server chassis and locate the processor socket compatible with Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen CPUs on your Cisco motherboard.
• Remove the existing CPU heat sink or cooler, following the manufacturer’s guidance for safe removal and thermal compound cleanup.
• Align the 8352V processor with the socket key and seating notch. Carefully insert the CPU without applying lateral force to the pins or socket contacts.
• Attach the cooling solution securely, ensuring proper contact and adequate thermal paste application as recommended by Cisco or the thermal solution manufacturer.
• Update the system BIOS/firmware to the latest version that supports Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen CPUs, then reassemble the chassis and reconnect power and peripherals.
• Power on the server, enter the BIOS/UEFI interface, and verify CPU recognition, core count, and temperature readings. Run a POST test and perform any required BIOS optimizations for stability and performance.
• Boot into the operating system and install or update any CPU-specific drivers to optimize performance and ensure proper hardware acceleration features are active.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: What type of workload is this processor best suited for?
  A: The 36-core Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen 8352V is ideal for virtualization, large-scale databases, ERP, analytics, and other enterprise workloads that demand high core density, robust throughput, and reliable, secure performance in Cisco server environments.
• Q: What does the 3rd Gen Xeon Platinum bring to the table?
  A: The 3rd Gen Xeon Platinum family emphasizes higher core counts, improved efficiency, enhanced security features, and optimized multi-threaded performance for data-center-scale workloads, while maintaining enterprise reliability and serviceability.
• Q: Is this upgrade compatible with all Cisco servers?
  A: Compatibility depends on the server’s motherboard socket support and BIOS version. This upgrade is designed for Cisco servers that explicitly support Intel Xeon Platinum 3rd Gen processors and have validated firmware updates for the 8352V model.
• Q: Do I need to replace memory when upgrading?
  A: Memory compatibility and required memory configurations depend on the server model and motherboard. In many cases, a CPU upgrade does not necessitate memory changes, but it’s advisable to review Cisco hardware documentation and perform a full memory compatibility check during planning.
• Q: What are the expected performance and power implications?
  A: Upgrading to the 8352V typically yields higher parallel processing capacity and sustained throughput for multi-threaded workloads. Power and thermal characteristics are defined by the server chassis and cooling solution; ensure adequate cooling and power delivery to support sustained workloads under full load.