VCS Release Key and option key

[Akhilesh Nambiyath]

what is the difference between release key and option keys  on Cisco TelePresence Video Communication Server (VCS)?
 

[Patrick Sparkman]

Release Keys are for installing and upgrading software to different versions. Example is if you're currently running X7.0 and you'd like to upgrade to X8.0, then that is a major version change and requires a release key to allow the software to be applied. However, if you're running X7.0 and you'd like to upgrade to X7.2.2, it doesn't require a release key, as that is a considered a minor release (also known as a dot release), where the software version you're running and wanting to go to are within the same major build number. Release keys require a valid support contract for the device you're trying to obtain one for, you can request release keys through the Cisco Licensing Portal.

Option Keys are for adding new functionality, beyond what the base device comes with. Example is if you wanted to install FindMe or additional call licenses to a VCS. To get option keys, you need to purchase the option you want through a vendor.

Note: release keys and options keys are something that you'll fine across all the TelePresence products, not just the VCS. 

[Wayne DeNardi]

Patrick wrote: To get option keys, you need to purchase the option you want through a vendor.

Just to confuse things - some Option Keys are zero cost items and these can also be requested directly through the TAC / Cisco Licencing Team.

Wayne
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[Akhilesh Nambiyath]

My vcs is in demonstration mode . So i can use that in demo mode for registration of movi client and for call purpose ? . I had updated option keys for traversal and non traversal calls . Yet don't updated  release key as well it is a new setup .kindly please clarify that . Am using 8.2.x version 

[Wayne DeNardi]

It's the "Release Key" you're missing then if the VCS is in Demonstration Mode.

A lot of functions will not work in demo mode, so you will need to install the Release Key to make it function correctly.

Wayne
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[luismgallop]

Hello Guys, 

Where I find the release key to my VCS? I install the VM with version X8.7, but I don't know which is my release key.

[Acevirgil de Ocampo]

If this is a new deployment, by default the VCS have no Release Key and it is in demo version.You will need a valid release key to activate your VCS.

You will be notified that your VCS have missing release key and need to activate it.

If you ordered a VCS licenses for this deployment, you should received a paper license that consist the Product Authorization Key (PAK) for your VCS and able to assign the PAK for the specific serial number of your VCS and be able to activate and install the option keys.

Here's the link: (You would need your Cisco login to use this tool)

https://tools.cisco.com/SWIFT/LicensingUI/Quickstart

You can also email Cisco licensing team "licensing@cisco.com " to request for the release key if need further assistance.

regards,

Acevirgil 

[reza aminzaboli]

Hi guys

With the new vcs 8.8 release, I need to setup a single box ExpressC and One ExpressE creating an MRA environment.how do I get a demo license?

Thanks

R. AZ

[Patrick Sparkman]

Demo licenses are requested through your Account Manager and their team.

[Wayne DeNardi]

To put it really simply:

A "Release Key" enables the specific software release (ie X7.2.3 or X8.2.1) you have to work.

An "Option Key" enables a feature, and can be installed on any software release.

You must have a Release Key to have a working system, the Option Keys are optional and only required if you need to enable additional functionality.

Wayne
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