If you are planning to upgrade a switch to this file, you would typically transfer the file to the flash memory via TFTP/SCP and then update the boot path.
: Indicates a "universal" image that includes strong cryptographic features (SSH, HTTPS, etc.). The specific feature set (IP Base or LAN Base) is typically activated via software licensing. mz : Indicates the firmware runs from RAM and is compressed. c2960s-universalk9-mz.152-2.e9.bin
If you are still running 12.2(55)SE or an early 15.0(2) release, here is why 152-2.e9.bin is essential: If you are planning to upgrade a switch
c2960s-universalk9-mz.152-2.e9.bin is the Cisco IOS software image for the Catalyst 2960-S c2960s-universalk9-mz.152-2.e9.bin
This specific "Universal" image includes a wide range of features, but it is important to note how licensing works with this file: