Frequently asked questions about license keys
Veritas customers have asked the following questions about how to manage license keys.
Table:
Question | Answer |
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Is the license system for NetBackup the same as the license system in other Veritas products? | NetBackup uses a common license system that other Veritas products also use. Please remember, however, that the common license system provides flexibility in the license features that each product implements. For example, NetBackup does not have a node-locked license system, but some other products do. |
Can I use NetBackup if all I have is a media kit? | No. The media kit by itself does not allow any access to NetBackup. You always need a license key (either permanent or evaluation). License keys should always be delivered with the media kit, so you should never find yourself with a media kit and no key. |
What does the license key look like? What information does it contain? | The key is a serial number (for example: xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxxx-xxx). The key contains information on the following:
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Is the license key serialized? | Yes, serialization information is embedded in the key. |
Can I see reports on what license keys I have? | Yes. Information about license keys is stored on the master server. To access the information, open the NetBackup Administration Console and select . On UNIX servers, you can also run the following command: /usr/openv/netbackup/bin/admincmd/get_license_key For more information on how to view reports, refer to the NetBackup Administrator's Guide, Volume I. |
How do I enable options and agents? | When you install NetBackup, you are prompted to enter the license keys for all options and agents. If you purchase an agent or other add-on product at a later date, you can enter its license key manually. Open the NetBackup Administration Console and select . On UNIX servers, you can also run the following command: /usr/openv/netbackup/bin/admincmd/get_license_key Some options require that you have your original NetBackup DVDs, because additional binaries must be installed. You should always keep your NetBackup DVDs in a safe place. |
Should I save license keys after they have been entered? | Yes. Always store copies of your license keys in a secure place. |
What should I do if I have lost my license key(s)? | Veritas has a record of all license keys that are issued to customers. Customers who lose their license key(s) can call Order Management to get copies of their license keys. If you have purchased NetBackup from a Veritas partner, you need to contact that partner for information on your key. |
How are large volume orders handled? | Many NetBackup installations are very large, and the license keys are long. License keys that you enter multiple times can be time-consuming. You can request a single license key for each type of NetBackup component you purchase. For example, you can obtain one license key for use with 50 Oracle agents. Site licenses enable unrestricted use for specific NetBackup agents or options. You still need a unique license key for each type of NetBackup component that you purchase. Separate license keys are required for components like NetBackup Server, a Lotus Notes agent, or any NDMP option. |
What about license keys for customers with site licenses? | Site licenses are handled much like large volume orders are. The certificate for a site license states that the license key is good for unlimited copies. |
Do I need a license key to enable NetBackup Remote Administration Consoles? | No. NetBackup Remote Administration Consoles do not require special license keys. You can install them on any computer with access to the master server. |
Can a license key be used multiple times? | Yes. You can use your license keys multiple times. You are, however, legally bound to install and use only the number of NetBackup servers, clients, agents, and options for which you purchase licenses. |
How do existing customers get license keys? | All NetBackup customers who have current maintenance contracts with Veritas automatically receive the latest version of NetBackup. You receive the NetBackup media kit and license keys for every component for which you purchased licenses. If your maintenance is through a Veritas partner, you upgrade through the partner. Contact the partner for more details. |
What if I do not get the right license keys? | If you believe that you received an incorrect license key, contact Order Management using the number on your license key certificate. Technical support does not issue permanent license keys. You can obtain license keys only through Order Management. Technical support can provide temporary one-month license keys to you while issues regarding permanent license keys are resolved. |
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What does an evaluation license enable? |
The evaluation license enables unrestricted use of NetBackup, its agents, and its options for a predetermined period of time. |
Am I notified when an evaluation is about to expire? | To find out when a license key expires, open the NetBackup Administration Console and select . On UNIX servers, you can also run the following command: /usr/openv/netbackup/bin/admincmd/get_license_key |
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What happens when an evaluation license expires? | The NetBackup services or daemons are shut down. When you attempt to use the product you are informed that its evaluation period has expired. |
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Does NetBackup save the backup configuration and catalog information when evaluation license expire? |
Yes. Customers who add a permanent license to an evaluation version of NetBackup have immediate access to their catalog information and configuration information. |
How do I upgrade from an evaluation license to a permanent license? | It is easy. When you purchase a permanent license, you add that license to NetBackup. All the configuration information and catalog data from your evaluation version is retained. To enter your permanent license key, open the NetBackup Administration Console and select . On UNIX servers, you can also run the following command: /usr/openv/netbackup/bin/admincmd/get_license_key |