United States
Q
What license levels are available for the Cisco Catalyst 3750 switch?
A
Cisco 3750 switches offer three license levels: LAN Base for basic Layer 2 switching, IP Base for enhanced Layer 3 routing, and IP Services for advanced enterprise features such as BGP, MPLS, and multicast. Choose the level that matches your network requirements.
Q
How do I upgrade the license on a Cisco 3750 switch?
A
To upgrade, obtain the new PAK from Cisco, convert it to a license file on the Cisco Licensing Portal, copy the file to the switch (via USB or TFTP), run 'license install <filename>', and reload the device to activate the new feature set.
Q
Can I mix different license levels within a Cisco 3750 switch stack?
A
Yes. In a stack, the highest license level present is automatically applied to all members. For example, if one member runs IP Services, the entire stack operates at IP Services without additional purchases or configuration.
Q
Do Cisco 3750 licenses expire or require renewal?
A
No. Cisco 3750 licenses are perpetual and do not expire. Once installed, the license stays active even after reboots or power cycles. Evaluation licenses, however, expire after 60 days and must be converted to a permanent license.
Q
What is the difference between IP Base and IP Services licenses on the 3750?
A
IP Base provides basic Layer 3 routing protocols (static, RIP, OSPF), QoS, and multicast. IP Services adds advanced routing (BGP, MPLS, EIGRP), advanced multicast controls, and enhanced security features suitable for large enterprise networks.
Q
How can I verify which license is currently active on my 3750 switch?
A
Use the CLI command 'show license summary' or 'show license detail' to display installed licenses, their status (active, standby), and feature sets. This provides a quick summary of your current license level and usage.
Q
Are Cisco 3750 licenses transferable between devices?
A
No. Cisco 3750 licenses are node-locked to the switch’s unique Device ID. You cannot transfer a license to a different device. You must purchase a new license for each physical switch chassis.
Q
Does the Cisco 3750 platform use Smart Licensing?
A
No. The Cisco Catalyst 3750 family relies on traditional PAK-based licensing. You register your PAK online to receive a license file and install it directly on the switch. Smart Licensing is supported on newer Cisco platforms.
Q
What is a Cisco Product Authorization Key (PAK) for the 3750?
A
A PAK is a one-time code provided by Cisco or authorized resellers. You redeem it on the Cisco Licensing Portal to generate a license file specific to your switch’s Device ID, which you then install to activate licensed features.
Q
Can I downgrade my Cisco 3750 license to a lower feature set?
A
No. Downgrading is not supported. If you require fewer features, you must continue running the higher license level or purchase a new switch with the desired license. There is no downgrade or refund option for an unused license.
Q
How do I install a license file on a Cisco 3750 switch using USB?
A
Copy the license file to a FAT32-formatted USB drive, insert it into the switch, then execute: 1) 'dir usb0:' 2) 'license install usb0:<filename>' 3) 'reload'. After reboot, use 'show license summary' to confirm activation.
Q
What advanced features does the IP Services license add on a 3750?
A
IP Services unlocks enterprise-grade features such as BGP routing, MPLS LDP, advanced multicast control, Layer 3 VPNs, and enhanced security protocols. It’s ideal for large-scale campus cores and distribution layers requiring sophisticated routing.
Q
Where can I purchase authentic Cisco 3750 switch licenses?
A
Buy authentic Cisco 3750 licenses through Cisco’s official channel partners or authorized resellers. Verify your partner’s Cisco Partner ID and request proof of purchase to ensure you receive a genuine PAK and full Cisco support.
Q
How much does a Cisco 3750 license cost?
A
Pricing varies by region, license level, and reseller. Typical ranges are $300–$1,200 USD per license. Contact a Cisco authorized partner for an official quote tailored to your deployment size and support requirements.
Q
What happens if I reload a 3750 switch without installing the license file?
A
If no license is installed, the switch defaults to the base LAN Base feature set. Any unlicensed features are disabled. You can still install the license post-boot, but licensed features remain inaccessible until activation.
Q
Can I evaluate higher feature sets on a Cisco 3750 switch before purchasing?
A
Yes. Cisco offers a 60-day evaluation license for higher feature sets. Apply the evaluation PAK, install the license, and activate it. After 60 days, the switch reverts to the base feature set unless you install a permanent license.
