1. What is a Smart Account?

A Smart Account is your go-to system for managing Cisco software licenses. Whether you’re dealing with traditional licenses or the latest Smart Licenses, a Smart Account offers a one-stop solution for monitoring, tracking, and using your licenses efficiently. There are two types: Customer Smart Accounts for end users and Partner Holding Accounts for resellers.

2. When Do I Need a Smart Account?

You’ll need a Smart Account whenever you’re purchasing Smart License-enabled products. When ordering with US , Smart Account-enabled products are flagged, ensuring you know when it’s required.

All About Smart Licensing

3. What Makes Smart Licensing Different from Traditional Licensing?

Smart Licensing simplifies software management by removing manual processes like entering Product Activation Keys (PAKs). Instead, all your licenses are pooled and managed centrally, making it easier to monitor usage and transfer licenses across your devices.

4. How Do I Order Smart Licenses?

Simply place your order with US and assign the Smart License to your Smart Account. You can choose a Customer Smart Account or Partner Holding Account. From there, licenses are automatically delivered and ready to use.

Managing Your Smart Accounts Like a Pro

5. How Do I Create a Smart Account?

Creating a Smart Account is simple. Log in to Cisco Software Central (CSC), request an account, and you’re good to go! Partners can also create accounts on behalf of customers, making the process even smoother.

6. What’s the Difference Between Customer and Partner Holding Accounts?

Customer Smart Accounts allow customers to directly manage their software licenses, while Partner Holding Accounts temporarily store licenses before they are assigned to a customer’s account.

Power Up with Smart Software Manager

7. What is the Smart Software Manager?

The Smart Software Manager (SSM) is your hub for tracking and managing all your Cisco licenses. It helps you organize licenses, track consumption, and ensure you’re always in compliance. You can access it via the cloud or set up an on-prem version for more control.

8. How Does Smart Software Manager On-Prem Work?

If your network has strict security protocols, you can use SSM On-Prem, which allows you to manage licenses locally without connecting to Cisco’s cloud. You can sync with the Cisco cloud periodically to stay updated.

Special Features You Should Know About

9. What is Specific License Reservation (SLR)?

SLR allows you to reserve licenses for highly secure networks that can’t regularly connect to Cisco. This feature ensures you have the flexibility to assign licenses without constant online communication.

10. How Do You Manage Multiple Partners in a Single Smart Account?

Customers can create Virtual Accounts within their Smart Account, giving different partners access to specific parts of their software environment. This way, each partner sees only what they need.

Smart Licensing for Cisco ONE Users

11. How Can Cisco ONE Customers Use Smart Licensing?

Cisco ONE bundles offer both classic PAKs and Smart Licensing. Once you have a Smart Account, you can view all your Cisco ONE entitlements in one place, making license management more seamless.

Get Ahead with Smart Licensing Policy

12. What is Smart Licensing Using Policy?

Cisco’s Smart Licensing Using Policy (SLUP) simplifies device registration by removing the need for day-zero product registration. All your licenses are tracked through periodic reporting, making compliance easier without constant manual input.

13. What Happens When You Upgrade to Smart Licensing Using Policy?

When you upgrade, all existing licenses persist. You won’t lose access to your licenses or need to re-register, and the process ensures a smooth transition for all Smart License-enabled products.

Additional Resources

14. Where Can I Find More Information on Smart Licensing?

Cisco provides comprehensive training resources and step-by-step guides through Cisco Software Central. You can also request live training sessions to dive deeper into Smart Licensing and Account Management ,or Contact US