Temporary IPS Key

[Bethuelle]

Hi to ye all,

Please can anyone tell me what to do to obtain a temporary IPS license key? And who is eligible to obtain one such key.

Thanks for your prompt reply

[rhermes]

Every IPS Sensor is permitted to obtain ONE temporary key. This temporary key can not be renewed and you need to buy a license once your temporary key expires if you want the ability to update the signatures.

Here is the license key instalation instructions:

http://www.cisco.com/en/US/partner/docs/security/ips/5.1/configuration/guide/idm/dmIntro.html#wp1051462

The IPS Sensor will function without a valid license key, you just won;t be able to update the signatures. You can apply software updates that also include the latest signature files as of their release date, but often these signatures are the first attempt and require more tuning than usual and are updated frequently in subsequent signature updates.

- Bob

[Bethuelle]

Hye Bob,

I do not quite understand what you mean by not being able to update signatures and at the same time mention applying software updates. what 's the difference?

[rhermes]

Signature updates (sometimes calls sig packs) are released frequently, on the average of every 10 days or so from Cisco. They contain updates and changes to the signature files used by the sensors. They may add new signature, retire old signatures and change the settings of existing signatures. (and rarely contain new signature engines). Signature updates can be automatically applied by subscribing the sensor to your Cisco account and having a valid license.

Software updates are release more rarely, on the average of every 6 months or so. These updates add features, signature engines, bug fixes, etc. Software updates include the current release of signature updates as well. They must be applied manually (or via a management platform).

- Bob

[Bethuelle]

Thanks Bob for your prompt reply.

Thus if I get you right, without a license, I can apply software updates?

[rhermes]

Yes, that is correct. Without a license you can install all software updates and the sensor will function normally.

Applying a valid license allows you the additional function of applying signature updates.

- Bob

[Bethuelle]

Thanks for your Help.