License file required for upgrade
Starting with NetBackup 10.3, NetBackup uses license files instead of license keys. As part of the primary server upgrade process, you must either download a license file or use a temporary production license. You don't need to download the temporary production license as it's included with NetBackup.
Upgrades from versions earlier than NetBackup 8.1.2 only support the production licenses that are downloaded from Cohesity Entitlement Management System (VEMS) or the evaluation license. You don't need to download the evaluation license as it's included with NetBackup. You cannot use the temporary production license when you upgrade from a NetBackup version earlier than 8.1.2.
Use your production license that is downloaded from VEMS for all upgrades. If you do not have access to your production license, you can use one of the built-in non-downloaded licenses. Which license you use depends on your version of NetBackup.
The evaluation license is only used during upgrades if the upgrade is from NetBackup versions earlier than NetBackup 8.1.2. The evaluation license is valid for 60 days. Alerts appear in the web UI immediately after upgrade, indicating the number of days remaining in the evaluation.
The temporary license is used in upgrades of NetBackup 8.1.2 or later to NetBackup 10.3 or later. The temporary license is valid for 60 days. Alerts appear in the web UI immediately after upgrade, indicating the number of days remaining before the temporary license expires.
More information about license files is available.