Can I upgrade IOS versions legally, without a maintenance contract?

[jimmyc_2]

Some of my devices do not have maintenance, as we use them for spares.   Can I upgrade the IOS without violating the end user agreement?

[burleyman · Accepted solution]

No. You need a valid support contract on the device.

Mike

[jimmyc_2]

Thanks Burleyman.   Not what I wanted to hear, but good information.

[nicolas.vallot]

http://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/switches/catalyst-4500-series-switches/product_bulletin_c25-696974.html

This document explains that software updates can be deployed without a service contract on devices running LAN Lite, LAN Base and IP Base.

[jmandersson]

Is this Always true?

Sometimes you may see that Cisco offers "free upgrade" in case of security problems, like the Heartbleed bug for example.

Regards,

Johan

[rvarelac]

Hi jimmyc_2 , 

yes , If you have a valid security reason such as hearthbleed , you can open a case with TAC  as one-time exception ,  and we will publish you the required image to patch the issue.

Hope this helps 

-Randy-