The Cisco Catalyst 8000 Series Router introduces a simplified approach to managing network infrastructure through Cisco DNA subscriptions. This comprehensive FAQ breaks down the essentials of Cisco DNA subscriptions and licensing for Catalyst 8000 platforms, helping you navigate the shift from traditional models to a more modern, subscription-based system.

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1. The Transition to Catalyst 8000: What’s Changed in Licensing? #

Q: How has software licensing changed from ASR1K/ISR4K to Catalyst 8000? #

Catalyst 8000 platforms exclusively use Cisco DNA subscriptions. Traditional perpetual licenses like SEC, UC, and APP have been replaced by term-based subscriptions that bundle network and software stacks into a single offering. This change simplifies both procurement and management.

2. Why Cisco DNA Subscriptions? The Benefits for Your Network #

Q: What are the key benefits of Cisco DNA subscriptions for Catalyst 8000? #

Cisco DNA subscriptions simplify network management and provide flexibility across hardware platforms. Key benefits include:

• Unified Licensing: Consistent terminology and feature packaging across the Cisco Intent-Based Networking portfolio.
• Cost Efficiency: Lower initial costs and reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) throughout the subscription lifecycle.
• Portability: Cisco DNA licenses are transferable across Catalyst platforms, providing flexibility in hardware upgrades or migrations.
• Feature Consistency: Cisco DNA Advantage offers consistent feature sets across platforms like C8300, C8500, and C8000v.

3. Ordering Cisco DNA Subscriptions: Platform-Specific Overview #

Q: How do I order Cisco DNA subscriptions for the Catalyst 8000 platforms? #

Ordering Cisco DNA subscriptions varies depending on the platform. Each platform has its specific SKU for Cisco DNA subscriptions:

4. License Entitlements Explained: What’s Included with Cisco DNA Subscriptions? #

Q: What entitlements are included in Cisco DNA subscriptions for Catalyst 8000? #

Cisco DNA subscriptions include two key components:

• Perpetual Network Stack: Grants perpetual access to basic network functionalities such as routing and switching.
• Cisco DNA Software Stack: This is a term-based component (3, 5, or 7 years) that provides advanced features, including SD-WAN, automation, and orchestration.

The network stack ensures continuous operation even after the subscription expires, while the software stack must be renewed to maintain access to advanced features like SD-WAN and security.

5. Choosing the Right Cisco DNA Subscription Tier #

Q: What’s the difference between Cisco DNA Essentials and Cisco DNA Advantage? #

Both tiers provide core functionalities, but Cisco DNA Advantage includes enhanced features such as advanced routing, security, and SD-WAN capabilities. Below is a comparison:

6. Can I Port Licenses Across Platforms? Cisco DNA License Portability Explained #

Q: Can I migrate my Cisco DNA subscription between different Catalyst platforms? #

Yes, Cisco DNA licenses are portable across Catalyst platforms, as long as the new platform meets the subscription tier and throughput requirements. For example, you can migrate a subscription from Catalyst 8300 to Catalyst 8500, but only if the new platform supports the required bandwidth tier.

7. Upgrading Cisco DNA Subscriptions: How to Upgrade Bandwidth and Features #

Q: How do I upgrade my Cisco DNA subscription (e.g., from Essentials to Advantage)? #

Upgrading your Cisco DNA subscription is straightforward. You can upgrade both the feature tier and bandwidth, provided that the platform meets the eligibility criteria. Upgrades typically provide 100% credit for the remaining value of your current subscription.

8. Smart Licensing: Managing Your Network Entitlements #

Q: What is Smart License Enhanced (SLE), and how does it work? #

Smart License Enhanced (SLE) provides a unified platform for managing software licenses across Cisco devices. It simplifies the process of purchasing, tracking, and reporting license usage through the Cisco Smart Software Manager (CSSM) portal.

Key features of Smart License Enhanced include:

• Easy Activation: No need for Product Activation Keys (PAKs). Licenses are pooled and automatically assigned.
• Unified License Management: My Cisco Entitlements (MCE) gives you a complete view of your licenses and usage in one portal.
• License Flexibility: Licenses are not tied to hardware, meaning they can be transferred across devices as needed.

9. Handling HSEC Licensing: What You Need to Know #

Q: What is the HSEC license, and when do I need it? #

An HSEC (High-Security Export Control) license is required for encrypted throughput greater than 250Mbps, in compliance with U.S. export regulations. This license is automatically included with any Catalyst 8000 device requiring higher encrypted throughput.Pls find more detail with our Expert .

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10. Support and Maintenance for Cisco DNA Subscriptions #

Q: What support is included with Cisco DNA subscriptions? #

Cisco DNA for SD-WAN and Routing subscriptions come with embedded support through the Software Support Service (SWSS). This support covers features such as SD-WAN Manager, Umbrella SIG, and Catalyst Center. However, it does not include hardware support, which must be purchased separately through services like Smart Net Total Care.

For more detailed support options, you can visit the Support Page.

Product Related.

Cisco DNA subscriptions and licensing for Catalyst 8000 Series provide a streamlined, flexible, and powerful way to manage your network infrastructure. Whether you’re upgrading or migrating, understanding these key concepts ensures that your network is future-proof and optimized for performance.