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Q
What is a Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License?
A
A Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License is a software entitlement that unlocks NX-OS feature sets on Nexus 5000 series switches. It governs access to base and advanced capabilities such as virtualization, SAN, and fabric services.
Q
What types of licenses are available for the Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch?
A
Cisco offers three main license types for Nexus 5000: Base (NX-OS Essentials), Enterprise Services (advanced networking), and SAN-Value (FCoE and FC). Each edition provides a distinct feature set tailored to data center needs.
Q
How do I activate a Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License?
A
Activate a Nexus 5000 license via the NX-OS CLI by installing the license file (license install) or by registering the device under Cisco Smart Licensing. A valid PAK and the device registration ID are required.
Q
How can I upgrade my Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License?
A
To upgrade, purchase the desired license tier from a Cisco reseller, obtain the new PAK, and apply it via the NX-OS 'license install' command or through Smart Licensing. A switch reload may be required to enable advanced features.
Q
How do I check the license status on a Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch?
A
Use the NX-OS commands 'show license usage' or 'show license all' in the CLI to display active licenses, feature entitlements, and expiration dates. This ensures compliance and visibility of licensed functions.
Q
Can I transfer a Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License to another device?
A
No. Cisco Nexus 5000 licenses are permanently tied to the switch’s serial number and cannot be transferred between devices. You must purchase a separate license for each unit.
Q
What is Cisco Smart Licensing for Nexus 5000?
A
Cisco Smart Licensing is a cloud-based system that automates license compliance and management for Nexus 5000 switches. It simplifies activation, tracking, and renewal through Cisco’s Smart Software Manager.
Q
Do Cisco Nexus 5000 licenses expire?
A
Base NX-OS licenses on Nexus 5000 are perpetual and do not expire. Evaluation licenses are time-limited (typically 60 days), after which you must convert them to permanent licenses.
Q
How do I convert an evaluation license to a permanent license on a Nexus 5000 Switch?
A
Obtain a permanent PAK from Cisco, register it under Smart Licensing or install it via the NX-OS 'license install' CLI, and replace the evaluation entitlement. A device reload may be required to finalize the conversion.
Q
How do I renew or extend my Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch License?
A
Renewal is handled via Cisco Smart Software Manager or Cisco Commerce. Request a renewal PAK from your reseller, install it using the 'license install' command, and synchronize with the Smart Licensing server.
Q
What common errors occur when activating Nexus 5000 licenses?
A
Activation errors often include incorrect PAK, device-ID mismatches, or network connectivity issues to the Smart Licensing server. Verify serial numbers, reload the switch, and ensure proper network access.
Q
How do I enable FCoE and SAN services on a Cisco Nexus 5000?
A
Install the SAN-Value (SAN-V) license using 'license install' or Smart Licensing, then enable the service with 'feature-set san' in NX-OS. Reboot the switch if prompted to activate FCoE and FC capabilities.
Q
How does license enforcement work on Cisco Nexus 5000 Switches?
A
NX-OS enforces licenses by validating feature usage at boot and runtime. Unauthorized features are disabled or locked out until the proper license is installed, ensuring compliance and stability.
Q
Where can I purchase Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch licenses?
A
Purchase official Nexus 5000 licenses through Cisco’s authorized resellers or the Cisco Commerce Workspace portal. Ensure the vendor is Cisco-authorized to guarantee valid licenses and support.
Q
How much do Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch licenses cost?
A
Pricing for Nexus 5000 licenses varies by feature tier and region. Contact a Cisco authorized reseller or visit Cisco’s pricing portal for accurate, up-to-date quotes.
Q
Are there bundle options for Cisco Nexus 5000 Switch licenses?
A
Yes. Cisco offers bundles that combine base, enterprise, and SAN-Value feature sets at discounted rates. Check Cisco’s product documentation or consult a reseller for bundle availability.
