Q
What license tiers are available for Cisco Nexus 3000 switches?
A
Cisco Nexus 3000 licenses are offered in two main tiers: LAN Base and LAN Enterprise, with optional feature packs for advanced capabilities.
Q
How do I choose the right Cisco Nexus 3000 license tier?
A
Select a license based on required features, port count, and performance needs: choose LAN Base for standard Layer 2/3, or LAN Enterprise for OSPF/BGP, ACLs, and advanced functionality.
Q
What is the difference between LAN Base and LAN Enterprise licenses?
A
LAN Base provides fundamental Layer 2 switching and limited Layer 3, whereas LAN Enterprise adds full Layer 3 routing, multicast, QoS, and advanced security features.
Q
Can I upgrade Cisco Nexus 3000 switch licenses without downtime?
A
You can upgrade licenses online via Cisco Smart Licensing with no traffic interruption, provided your hardware supports in-service software upgrades (ISSU).
Q
How do I activate a Cisco Nexus 3000 license?
A
Activate a Nexus 3000 license by registering your PAK in Cisco Smart Software Manager and executing 'license smart register' on the switch CLI.
Q
What is the difference between term and perpetual licenses?
A
Perpetual licenses grant indefinite use rights, while term licenses are subscription-based with defined expiration dates and renewal options.
Q
How do I view installed licenses on a Cisco Nexus 3000 switch?
A
Use the 'show license' or 'show license status' command in the switch CLI to display all installed and active licenses.
Q
Is an evaluation license available for Cisco Nexus 3000 switches?
A
Request a 60-day evaluation license through Cisco Software Central to trial LAN Enterprise features before purchase.
Q
How long is a Cisco Nexus 3000 term license valid?
A
Term license duration ranges from one to five years, as specified in your Cisco Smart account and subscription contract.
Q
Can I transfer a Cisco Nexus 3000 license to another switch?
A
To transfer a license, de-register the switch from Cisco Smart Software Manager, then register the target switch with the same license entitlement.
Q
Where do I enter the PAK for my Cisco Nexus 3000 license?
A
Enter your Cisco Product Activation Key (PAK) in Cisco Software Central and synchronize with your switch using 'license install' CLI commands.
Q
Do I need a license for basic switching functions on Cisco Nexus 3000?
A
Basic Layer 2 switching is covered under the default LAN Base license; no additional licensing is required for standard connectivity.
Q
How does Cisco Smart Licensing work with Nexus 3000?
A
Cisco Smart Licensing automatically tracks Nexus 3000 entitlements in the cloud, simplifying compliance and eliminating manual PAK handling.
Q
What happens if my Cisco Nexus 3000 license expires?
A
If a term license expires, advanced features will deactivate, reverting the switch to LAN Base functionality until renewal.
Q
Are feature licenses required for virtual PortChannels (vPC) on Nexus 3000?
A
vPC is supported under LAN Enterprise; no separate vPC license is required beyond the Enterprise entitlement.