Increasing Cluster Size From 4 to 6 Nodes

[bmoxon]

We will soon be increasing the size of an existing cluster (running CUCM version 7.x) from four to six nodes.  While I understand that I will have to have licenses for the new nodes to add them to the cluster, what, if anything has to be done regarding DLUs?  My assumption is that there are three potential paths.  First, there is no relationship between the number of nodes in a cluster and the DLUs and as the two nodes are added to the cluster, the DLUs are recognized/available in the "new" cluster.  Second, the addition of the new nodes creates a "new" cluster that will require some action to be taken to move the current DLUs to the new cluster.  Third, the addition on the new nodes creates a "new" cluster which negates the existing DLUs which means new DLUs will need to be purchased for the "new" cluster.

The bottom line:  As we move from four to six nodes in a cluster what actions do I need to take to ensure the new nodes are successfully added to the cluster and I have the required DLUs to support phones?

[Tommer Catlin · Accepted solution]

Actually, DLUs are shared within the cluster.  It does not matter if you have 1 node or 6 nodes in teh cluster, the DLUs are shared across.   The node license how ever simply need (1) license per node.  If you are current on your UCSS and ESW contracts, you should be able to get these licenses for free. (just supply the required hardware).    Add the node into the cluster and balance your CUCM groups appropiately. 

Now, if you are creating a new cluster, not associated to your existing cluster, then you have to purchase new DLUs for it.

[bmoxon]

Thanks, Tommer -

That is what I believed.  However, a co-worker read something that he interpreted to mean that increasing the size (from 4 to 6 nodes) of a cluster might mean the current DLUs would not be recognized in the "new" cluster.  However, my understanding is that adding new nodes to an existing, valid cluster will have no impact on the DLUs maintained on the Publisher.  We simply need to ensure that we get a new license file for the node indicating the six, vice, four nodes that will be in the new configuration.

[Rob Huffman · Accepted solution]

Hi there,

My friend TCAT is most correct here (+5 "T")

The Licensing is controlled by the License Manager on the Publisher server

In your config, when the new Nodes are added to the existing cluster nothing will

need to be done with regards to the DLU's as these are controlled by/and issued out

to IP phones by the License manager.

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/7_0_1/ccmcfg/b02licfu.html

Once a successful addition of the nodes takes place and replication has been built the new Nodes will have full access to the existing DLU pool.

Cheers!

Rob

[bmoxon]

Thanks.  Clear on the DLUs as that is what I thought was the case.

Regarding adding the nodes, just so I am clear on the procedure.  Current cluster is four nodes running 7.1 (2) with 2,500 seat licenses.  If I want to add two new nodes to the cluster:

1.  Purchase two nodes with 2,500 seat licenses -- Do I need to apprise Cisco that these will be added to an existing cluster so they can issue the appropriate license with the purcahse? Or...

2.  Submit information to Cisco (i.e. MAC address of Publisher node) after the purchase so a license file can be generated at that point.

3.  Upload new license file (indicating six vice four nodes) on the Publisher node.

4.  Configure new subscribers on the Publisher node.

5.  Go through installation procedures on the new nodes. 

[Tommer Catlin · Accepted solution]

Again, if your UCSS and ESW are current, the nodes are FREE. Just check them out with the Product Upgrade Tool. If you are not current, you will need to purchase a node, no seats.

You will get a PAK key from PUT tool. Enter in the PAK key enter the go/licensing website and with the publisher’s mac.

Upload the file to the Publisher and it will take your 4 nodes +2 nodes = 6 nodes total. Simple as that.

[bmoxon]

I believe that answers my question.  I am pretty certain the UCSS expired in March and the new nodes have already been procurred.  Therefore, it appears as if all there is to do is enter the PAK on the licensing website - which will tie the new nodes to the cluster thorugh the Publisher's MAC - generate the new license, which in turn is uploaded on the Publisher.  Thanks!