1. Universal images have the “universalk9” term in the image title: This universal image gives all the Cisco IOS benefits along with robust crypto benefits including VPN payload, Secure UC etc.

2. Universal images containing the ‘’universalk9_npe” term in the image title: This strong licensing encryption resolution supplied by Cisco Software Activation placates necessities for the export of encryption abilities. Some nations have import necessities which stipulate that the device does not provision any robust crypto abilities like VPN payload etc. in any way. To mollify the import laws of such nations, this universal image will not provide support to any robust payload encryption like VPN payload, secure voice etc. This image does however support risk protection facilities through the SECNPE-K9 license.

Unique Device Identifier (UDI)

The Unique Device Identifier comprises of two constituents: The Product ID (PID) and Serial Number (SN). The Serial Number is an 11-digit number that exclusively recognizes a device. The Product ID recognizes the type of the device. This info can be identified by utilizing the “show license UDI” command on the router’s CLI. It is also present on a pull-out label tray located on the actual device. We might need to remove “V01” that comes after the PID. For example, use just “CISCO2921/K9”, instead of “CISCO2921/K9 V01”.

Software Activation License (SAL)

A Software Activation License is supplied by Cisco by identifying the Product ID, the Serial Number of the hardware and the Product Activation Key (PAK). Hence the Product ID + Serial Number + PAK = Software Activation License. New hardware is shipped bundled with the Software Activation License pre-installed for features ordered with the router. New functions can be activated with a new SAL. A Software Activation License (SAL) allows definite functions. Hence the DATA technology package license allows DATA technology functions in the IOS Universal image. Each SAL is exclusive to a specific device and is incompatible with a different device. A technology package or feature set is acquired via a “Product Activation Key” (PAK).

To find out more please contact one of our Cisco Licensing Specialists here.