# Cisco Smart Licensing for collaboration Canonical: https://warmtransfer.net/knowledge/cisco-smart-licensing Last verified: 2026-10-01 Cisco Smart Software Licensing manages software entitlements across collaboration products through pooled accounts rather than node-locked license files[^58][^7]. Cisco Smart Software Manager (CSSM) acts as the cloud-based inventory service, while individual product instances report consumption directly or through on-premises intermediaries[^7][^30][^39]. ## Account structure and management A Cisco Smart Account pools license entitlements in a single account, and virtual accounts subdivide those licenses within the Smart Account to suit organizational needs[^58]. CSSM is Cisco's cloud-based service for managing, tracking, and moving licenses across virtual accounts[^7]. In Cisco License Central, a Smart Account can designate a default virtual account into which licenses are deposited automatically[^1]. Virtual accounts in Cisco License Central are either Unrestricted, which appear in all selectors, or Restricted, which require the exact name to assign an order; virtual accounts can also be nested under a parent[^2]. ## Unified CM licensing After installation, Unified CM 15 runs under a 90-day evaluation period[^32]. Once the evaluation period expires, Unified CM stops allowing new users or devices to be added until it is registered with CSSM or a CSSM satellite[^33]. A secure SIP trunk cannot be deployed on Unified CM while it is running in the 90-day evaluation period[^34]. Unified CM license types include Cisco User Connect Licensing (UCL), which is licensed per user and comes in Essential, Basic, Enhanced, and Enhanced Plus versions[^45]. From Release 14, Unified CM supports version-independent user licenses, which are annuity-style, issued for the subscription term, and managed in CSSM[^47]. A Unified CM Session Management Edition cluster can register to CSSM or a satellite, and when registered with Specific License Reservation (SLR), it needs a minimum set of licenses reserved[^44]. To use export-controlled functionality, the CSSM registration token must be generated with 'Allow export-controlled functionality on the products registered with this token' selected[^35]. ### Communication and synchronization intervals Direct connection, where Unified CM connects straight to CSSM on cisco.com, is the default Smart Licensing connectivity option[^30]. For direct connection, Unified CM's DNS must resolve tools.cisco.com for Call Home and smartreceiver.cisco.com for Smart Transport[^31]. Unified CM can also register to CSSM through an HTTP or HTTPS proxy, including a proxy that requires authentication[^38]. An on-premises CSSM satellite used by Unified CM runs in either Connected mode (automatic synchronization) or Disconnected mode (manual synchronization)[^39]. SSM On-Prem in disconnected mode synchronizes with Cisco by manual file transfer at least once a year, while connected mode syncs daily, weekly, or monthly[^59]. From Unified CM Release 15SU2, Call Home is deprecated as a Smart Licensing transport mode and Smart Transport is introduced to replace it[^26]. On 15SU2 and later, Unified CM moves to Smart Transport automatically once connectivity to smartreceiver.cisco.com is established, and an administrator can also switch from Call Home to Smart Transport on the License Management page[^29]. Unified CM license schedules follow set timelines: - Sends license usage details to CSSM automatically every 24 hours, or when triggered manually by an administrator[^46]. - Renews license authorization with CSSM automatically every 30 days[^28]. - Registration (ID) certificate is valid for 1 year and renews automatically every 6 months[^36]. - If Unified CM cannot connect to CSSM, license authorization expires after 90 days[^27]. ### Specific License Reservation and offline deployments Specific License Reservation (SLR) lets a Unified CM deployment use reserved licenses without sending usage information to Cisco, for highly secure networks[^40]. In SLR, Unified CM reports AUTHORIZED - RESERVED when the reserved entitlement covers current consumption and NOT AUTHORIZED - RESERVED when it does not[^42]. The CLI sequence to configure SLR on Unified CM is `license smart reservation enable`, then `license smart reservation request` to produce a request code, then `license smart reservation install` with the authorization code generated in CSSM[^6]. The command `license smart reservation return` generates a return code that is entered in CSSM to put the reserved licenses back into the virtual account pool[^3]. If a Unified CM node with reserved licenses is not operational, the licenses cannot be returned with a CLI return code and Cisco TAC must remove them manually[^41]. When upgrading an SLR-enabled Unified CM system to version 14, the 12.x reserved licenses are returned and a new authorization code with version-less licenses is generated in CSSM and installed[^43]. To upgrade a Unified CM system with Permanent License Reservation to version 15, return the existing licenses before the upgrade, then generate and install a new authorization code after it[^37]. ## Unity Connection licensing All legacy and PLM-based Unity Connection licenses must be migrated to Smart Software Licensing before upgrading to Unity Connection Release 15[^24]. In a Unity Connection cluster, only the publisher communicates with CSSM or the satellite and performs registration operations; subscribers display licensing status only[^25]. Unity Connection's 90-day evaluation period starts as soon as it begins consuming licenses[^21]. Unity Connection enters enforcement mode in the Evaluation Period Expired, Registration Expired, Authorization Expired, and Out of Compliance states[^20]. In enforcement mode, Unity Connection blocks creating or modifying user accounts and Speech Connect ports, while existing users keep voicemail access[^19]. Unity Connection license parameters include CUC_BasicMessaging (voicemail users), CUC_EnhancedMessaging (enhanced messaging users), and CUC_SpeechConnectPort (simultaneous voice recognition and TTS sessions)[^23]. To enable encryption, Unity Connection customers subject to export restrictions register with a token from an export-restricted virtual account and then run `license smart export request local CUC_Export_Restricted_Authorization_Key`[^22]. From Unity Connection 15SU3, all new installations support only Smart Transport for Smart Licensing[^16]. When Unity Connection is upgraded or migrated to 15SU3, it switches to Smart Transport if it can reach smartreceiver.cisco.com, and otherwise falls back to Call Home temporarily[^17]. The Release 15 `license smart` CLI commands apply to both Unified CM and Unity Connection and require privilege level 4[^5]. The Unified CM CLI has separate `license smart transport gateway` entries for releases before and from 14SU4 and 15SU2, and `license smart transport ssm-satellite` is listed for 14SU4 and 15SU2 onwards[^4]. ## Cisco Unified Border Element (CUBE) and Smart Licensing Using Policy Smart Licensing Using Policy was introduced for CUBE in Cisco IOS XE Amsterdam 17.3.2 and Bengaluru 17.4.1a[^13]. Under Smart Licensing Using Policy on IOS XE routing platforms, initial registration is not needed before using features, except for enforced or export-controlled licenses[^53]. smart licenses are classified as unenforced, enforced, or export-controlled; enforced and export-controlled licenses need a Smart Licensing Authorization Code (SLAC) before use[^52]. On IOS XE routing platforms, the HSECK9 export-controlled license needs a SLAC, as does encrypted throughput above 250 Mbps on some platforms[^55]. A Resource Utilization Measurement (RUM) report is the license usage report that meets the reporting requirements set by the policy[^54]. Cisco Smart License Utility (CSLU) is an on-premises intermediary that can collect usage from IOS XE devices and synchronize with Cisco, including an offline file-based mode[^51]. On IOS XE, direct Smart Transport to Cisco is configured with `license smart transport smart` and `license smart url default`, trust is established with `license smart trust idtoken {local|all}`, and `license smart sync` starts communication[^57]. Cisco advises against using Call Home transport for Smart Licensing Using Policy on newer IOS XE versions because it is expected to be decommissioned[^50]. CUBE monitors use of CUBE Standard Trunk licenses and CUBE Enhanced Trunk licenses separately[^14]. Voice-port-to-IP gateway sessions are reported as CUBE v14 Voice Gateway Session under the CUBE_T_VGW entitlement tag for information only; this reporting does not enforce sessions and causes no service interruption if the router is unregistered[^15]. CUBE's measurement interval is set with `mode border-element license periodicity`, which accepts 8 to 23 hours or 1 to 30 days[^10]. If the periodicity keyword is not configured, CUBE measures license usage once every 7 days[^9]. CUBE reports changes in license usage to CSSM as soon as it detects them, but no more than once every 24 hours[^12]. Under Smart Licensing Using Policy, CUBE typically has to send a license usage report at least every 90 days, and Cisco recommends reporting more often[^11]. If the CUBE router does not receive an acknowledgment within the minimum reporting period, call processing may be disabled, and it resumes once a valid acknowledgment is received[^8]. WarmTransfer's reading of the sources is that license renewal intervals are not uniform across Cisco collaboration products, so a Unified CM interval should not be assumed for Unity Connection or CUBE[^49]. Furthermore, WarmTransfer's reading of the sources is that unlike Unified CM and Unity Connection, whose documented enforcement blocks only administrative additions, an unreported CUBE under Smart Licensing Using Policy risks call processing being disabled, so CUBE reporting failures are a potential service-affecting risk[^48]. ## See also - See also [UC licensing models compared](https://warmtransfer.net/knowledge/uc-licensing-models). - See also [Troubleshooting Unified CM Smart Licensing](https://warmtransfer.net/knowledge/cucm-smart-licensing-troubleshooting). - See also [Cisco unified cm](https://warmtransfer.net/knowledge/cisco-unified-cm). - See also [Unified CM release trains and lifecycle dates](https://warmtransfer.net/knowledge/cucm-versions-lifecycle). ## Applicability Applies to: Cisco Smart Software Manager, Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Cisco Unity Connection, Cisco Unified Border Element, Cisco IOS XE, Cisco Smart Software Manager On-Prem, and Cisco License Central. Deployments: on-premises and multi-tenant. Sources checked 2026-10-01. The Unified CM CLI provides separate `license smart transport gateway` commands for releases before and from 14SU4 and 15SU2, and `license smart transport ssm-satellite` from 14SU4 and 15SU2 onwards[^4]. ## What remains uncertain UCL and CUWL device-per-license ratios in Unified CM 15 are not covered by the sources below. Collaboration Flex entitlement mapping to CSSM license tags for on-prem UC is not covered by the sources below. Expressway Smart Licensing regarding rich media sessions and room systems is not covered by the sources below. Unified CM named licensing states and enforcement behaviour for Out of Compliance and Authorization Expired are not covered by the sources below. Verification of CUBE entitlement tag names CUBE_T_STD, CUBE_T_ENH, and CUBE_T_RED is not covered by the sources below. The specific Call Home decommission date for Smart Licensing is not covered by the sources below. Unified CM 14SU4 Smart Transport and ssm-satellite behaviour is not covered by the sources below. Permanent License Reservation eligibility for Unified CM is not covered by the sources below. ## Sources [^1]: In Cisco License Central, a Smart Account can designate a default virtual account into which licenses are deposited automatically. Source: [How can I create Virtual Accounts under my Smart Account, in Cisco License Central (CLC)?](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/licensing/common-licensing-issues/how-to/smart-account-administration/lic220937-how-can-i-add-a-virtual-account-to-my-sm.html), Create Virtual Account steps (Default Virtual Account). Checked 2026-10-01. [^2]: Cisco License Central virtual accounts are either Unrestricted, which appear in all selectors, or Restricted, which require the exact name to assign an order; virtual accounts can also be nested under a parent. Source: [How can I create Virtual Accounts under my Smart Account, in Cisco License Central (CLC)?](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/licensing/common-licensing-issues/how-to/smart-account-administration/lic220937-how-can-i-add-a-virtual-account-to-my-sm.html), Create Virtual Account steps (Access Level; Parent Account). Checked 2026-10-01. [^3]: license smart reservation return generates a return code that is entered in CSSM to put the reserved licenses back into the virtual account pool. Source: [Command Line Interface Reference Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Solutions, Release 15 and SUs - License Commands](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/cli_ref/15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_1401_chapter_0100.html), license smart reservation return. Checked 2026-10-01. [^4]: The Unified CM CLI has separate license smart transport gateway entries for releases before and from 14SU4 and 15SU2, and license smart transport ssm-satellite is listed for 14SU4 and 15SU2 onwards. Source: [Command Line Interface Reference Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Solutions, Release 15 and SUs - License Commands](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/cli_ref/15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_1401_chapter_0100.html), license smart transport gateway ; license smart transport ssm-satellite . Checked 2026-10-01. [^5]: The Release 15 license smart CLI commands apply to both Unified CM and Unity Connection and require privilege level 4. Source: [Command Line Interface Reference Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Solutions, Release 15 and SUs - License Commands](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/cli_ref/15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_1401_chapter_0100.html), license smart register idtoken; license smart reservation enable (Applies to). Checked 2026-10-01. [^6]: On Unified CM, the SLR CLI sequence is: license smart reservation enable, then license smart reservation request to produce a request code, then license smart reservation install with the authorization code from CSSM. Source: [Command Line Interface Reference Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Solutions, Release 15 and SUs - License Commands](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/cli_ref/15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_15/cucm_b_cli_reference_guide_release_1401_chapter_0100.html), license smart reservation enable; license smart reservation request; license smart reservation install. Checked 2026-10-01. [^7]: Cisco Smart Software Manager (CSSM) is Cisco's cloud-based service for managing, tracking and moving licenses across virtual accounts. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview. Checked 2026-10-01. [^8]: If the CUBE router does not receive an acknowledgment within the minimum reporting period, call processing may be disabled, and it resumes once a valid acknowledgment is received. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^9]: If the periodicity keyword is not configured, CUBE measures license usage once every 7 days. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart Software Licensing Task Flow. Checked 2026-10-01. [^10]: CUBE's measurement interval is set with mode border-element license periodicity, which accepts 8 to 23 hours or 1 to 30 days. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart Software Licensing Task Flow. Checked 2026-10-01. [^11]: Under Smart Licensing Using Policy, CUBE typically has to send a license usage report at least every 90 days, and Cisco recommends reporting more often. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^12]: CUBE reports changes in license usage to CSSM as soon as it detects them, but no more than once every 24 hours. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^13]: Smart Licensing Using Policy was introduced for CUBE in Cisco IOS XE Amsterdam 17.3.2 and Bengaluru 17.4.1a. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Feature Information. Checked 2026-10-01. [^14]: CUBE monitors use of CUBE Standard Trunk licenses and CUBE Enhanced Trunk licenses separately. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^15]: Voice-port-to-IP gateway sessions are reported as CUBE v14 Voice Gateway Session under the CUBE_T_VGW entitlement tag for information only; this reporting does not enforce sessions and causes no service interruption if the router is unregistered. Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^16]: From Unity Connection 15SU3, all new installations support only Smart Transport for Smart Licensing. Source: [Release Notes for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 Service Update 3](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/readme/b_15su3cucrn.html), Smart Receiver Transport. Checked 2026-10-01. [^17]: When Unity Connection is upgraded or migrated to 15SU3, it switches to Smart Transport if it can reach smartreceiver.cisco.com, and otherwise falls back to Call Home temporarily. Source: [Release Notes for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 Service Update 3](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/readme/b_15su3cucrn.html), Smart Receiver Transport. Checked 2026-10-01. [^18]: Unity Connection renews its license authorization automatically every 6 hours and its registration every six months. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (renew authorization). Checked 2026-10-01. [^19]: In enforcement mode, Unity Connection blocks creating or modifying user accounts and Speech Connect ports, while existing users keep voicemail access. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (enforcement). Checked 2026-10-01. [^20]: Unity Connection enters enforcement mode in the Evaluation Period Expired, Registration Expired, Authorization Expired and Out of Compliance states. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (enforcement). Checked 2026-10-01. [^21]: Unity Connection's 90-day evaluation period starts as soon as it begins consuming licenses. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (evaluation period). Checked 2026-10-01. [^22]: To enable encryption, Unity Connection customers subject to export restrictions register with a token from an export-restricted virtual account and then run license smart export request local CUC_Export_Restricted_Authorization_Key. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (export-restricted encryption). Checked 2026-10-01. [^23]: Unity Connection's license parameters include CUC_BasicMessaging (voicemail users), CUC_EnhancedMessaging (enhanced messaging users) and CUC_SpeechConnectPort (simultaneous voice recognition and TTS sessions). Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (license parameters table). Checked 2026-10-01. [^24]: All legacy and PLM-based Unity Connection licenses must be migrated to Smart Software Licensing before upgrading to Unity Connection Release 15. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (migration prerequisite). Checked 2026-10-01. [^25]: In a Unity Connection cluster, only the publisher communicates with CSSM or the satellite and performs registration operations; subscribers display licensing status only. Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (cluster). Checked 2026-10-01. [^26]: From Unified CM Release 15SU2, Call Home is deprecated as a Smart Licensing transport mode and Smart Transport is introduced to replace it. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview (Smart Transport note). Checked 2026-10-01. [^27]: If Unified CM cannot connect to CSSM, its license authorization expires after 90 days. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Additional Tasks with Smart Software Licensing (Renew Authorization Now). Checked 2026-10-01. [^28]: Unified CM renews its license authorization with CSSM automatically every 30 days. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Additional Tasks with Smart Software Licensing (Renew Authorization Now). Checked 2026-10-01. [^29]: On 15SU2 and later, Unified CM moves to Smart Transport automatically once connectivity to smartreceiver.cisco.com is established, and an administrator can also switch from Call Home to Smart Transport on the License Management page. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Task Flow (switch transport mode). Checked 2026-10-01. [^30]: Direct connection, where Unified CM connects straight to CSSM on cisco.com, is the default Smart Licensing connectivity option. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview (deployment options). Checked 2026-10-01. [^31]: For direct connection, Unified CM's DNS must resolve tools.cisco.com for Call Home and smartreceiver.cisco.com for Smart Transport. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview (direct connection). Checked 2026-10-01. [^32]: After installation, Unified CM 15 runs under a 90-day evaluation period. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Product Instance Evaluation Mode. Checked 2026-10-01. [^33]: Once the evaluation period expires, Unified CM stops allowing new users or devices to be added until it is registered with CSSM or a CSSM satellite. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Product Instance Evaluation Mode. Checked 2026-10-01. [^34]: A secure SIP trunk cannot be deployed on Unified CM while it is running in the 90-day evaluation period. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Product Instance Evaluation Mode. Checked 2026-10-01. [^35]: To use export-controlled functionality, the CSSM registration token must be generated with 'Allow export-controlled functionality on the products registered with this token' selected. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Task Flow (generate registration token). Checked 2026-10-01. [^36]: Unified CM's registration (ID) certificate is valid for one year and renews automatically every six months. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Additional Tasks with Smart Software Licensing (Renew Registration Now). Checked 2026-10-01. [^37]: To upgrade a Unified CM system with Permanent License Reservation to version 15, return the existing licenses before the upgrade, then generate and install a new authorization code after it. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Upgrading Permanent License Reservation Enabled System to Version 15. Checked 2026-10-01. [^38]: Unified CM can register to CSSM through an HTTP or HTTPS proxy, including a proxy that requires authentication. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Task Flow (transport settings). Checked 2026-10-01. [^39]: An on-premises CSSM satellite used by Unified CM runs in either Connected mode (automatic synchronization) or Disconnected mode (manual synchronization). Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview (on-premise satellite). Checked 2026-10-01. [^40]: Specific License Reservation (SLR) lets a Unified CM deployment use reserved licenses without sending usage information to Cisco, for highly secure networks. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Specific License Reservation. Checked 2026-10-01. [^41]: If a Unified CM node with reserved licenses is not operational, the licenses cannot be returned with a CLI return code and Cisco TAC must remove them manually. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Additional Tasks with Specific License Reservation (return reserved licenses). Checked 2026-10-01. [^42]: In SLR, Unified CM reports AUTHORIZED - RESERVED when the reserved entitlement covers current consumption and NOT AUTHORIZED - RESERVED when it does not. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), License Authorization Statuses. Checked 2026-10-01. [^43]: When upgrading an SLR-enabled Unified CM system to version 14, the 12.x reserved licenses are returned and a new authorization code with version-less licenses is generated in CSSM and installed. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Upgrading Specific License Reservation Enabled System to Version 14. Checked 2026-10-01. [^44]: A Unified CM Session Management Edition cluster can register to CSSM or a satellite, and when registered with SLR it needs a minimum set of licenses reserved. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), License Types (Session Management Edition). Checked 2026-10-01. [^45]: Cisco User Connect Licensing (UCL) is licensed per user and comes in Essential, Basic, Enhanced and Enhanced Plus versions. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), License Types. Checked 2026-10-01. [^46]: Unified CM sends license usage details to CSSM automatically every 24 hours, and an administrator can also trigger the update manually. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Additional Tasks with Smart Software Licensing (Update Usage Details). Checked 2026-10-01. [^47]: From Release 14, Unified CM supports version-independent user licenses, which are annuity-style, issued for the subscription term and managed in CSSM. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Version Independent Licensing. Checked 2026-10-01. [^48]: Unlike Unified CM and Unity Connection, whose documented enforcement blocks only administrative additions, an unreported CUBE under Smart Licensing Using Policy risks call processing being disabled, so CUBE reporting failures are a potential service-affecting risk (inferred). Source: [Cisco Unified Border Element Configuration Guide - Cisco IOS XE 17.6 Onwards - Smart Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/voice/cube/ios-xe/config/ios-xe-book/m_smart_licensing.html), Smart License Operation, compared with Unified CM Product Instance Evaluation Mode and Unity Connection enforcement text. Checked 2026-10-01. [^49]: License renewal intervals are not uniform across Cisco collaboration products, so a Unified CM interval should not be assumed for Unity Connection or CUBE (inferred). Source: [Install, Upgrade and Maintenance Guide for Cisco Unity Connection Release 15 - Managing Licenses](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/connection/15/install_upgrade/b_15cuciumg/b_14cuciumg_chapter_0101.html), Managing Licenses Overview (renew authorization) compared with the Unified CM System Configuration Guide, Additional Tasks with Smart Software Licensing. Checked 2026-10-01. [^50]: Cisco advises against using Call Home transport for Smart Licensing Using Policy on newer IOS XE versions because it is expected to be decommissioned. Source: [Configure Smart Licensing Using Policy on IOS XE Routers](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ios-nx-os-software/ios-xe-17/217046-configure-smart-licensing-using-policy-o.html), Configure (Call-Home transport note). Checked 2026-10-01. [^51]: Cisco Smart License Utility (CSLU) is an on-premises intermediary that can collect usage from IOS XE devices and synchronize with Cisco, including an offline file-based mode. Source: [Configure Smart Licensing Using Policy on IOS XE Routers](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ios-nx-os-software/ios-xe-17/217046-configure-smart-licensing-using-policy-o.html), Topologies. Checked 2026-10-01. [^52]: Smart Licensing Using Policy classifies licenses as unenforced, enforced or export-controlled; enforced and export-controlled licenses need a Smart Licensing Authorization Code (SLAC) before use. Source: [Smart Licensing Using Policy for Cisco Enterprise Routing Platforms - Information About Smart Licensing Using Policy](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/sl_using_policy/b-sl-using-policy/info_about.html), Concepts: License Enforcement Types. Checked 2026-10-01. [^53]: Under Smart Licensing Using Policy on IOS XE routing platforms, initial registration is not needed before using features, except for enforced or export-controlled licenses. Source: [Smart Licensing Using Policy for Cisco Enterprise Routing Platforms - Information About Smart Licensing Using Policy](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/sl_using_policy/b-sl-using-policy/info_about.html), Overview. Checked 2026-10-01. [^54]: A RUM report (Resource Utilization Measurement report) is the license usage report that meets the reporting requirements set by the policy. Source: [Smart Licensing Using Policy for Cisco Enterprise Routing Platforms - Information About Smart Licensing Using Policy](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/sl_using_policy/b-sl-using-policy/info_about.html), Concepts: RUM Report and Report Acknowledgement. Checked 2026-10-01. [^55]: On IOS XE routing platforms, the HSECK9 export-controlled license needs a SLAC, as does encrypted throughput above 250 Mbps on some platforms. Source: [Smart Licensing Using Policy for Cisco Enterprise Routing Platforms - Information About Smart Licensing Using Policy](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/sl_using_policy/b-sl-using-policy/info_about.html), Concepts: Smart Licensing Authorization Code. Checked 2026-10-01. [^56]: Under the Cisco default policy, unenforced non-export subscription licenses need a first report within 90 days and then a report every 90 days. Source: [Smart Licensing Using Policy for Cisco Enterprise Routing Platforms - Information About Smart Licensing Using Policy](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/routers/sl_using_policy/b-sl-using-policy/info_about.html), Concepts: Policy (Cisco default policy table). Checked 2026-10-01. [^57]: On IOS XE, direct Smart Transport to Cisco is configured with license smart transport smart and license smart url default, trust is established with license smart trust idtoken {local|all}, and license smart sync starts communication. Source: [Configure Smart Licensing Using Policy on IOS XE Routers](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ios-nx-os-software/ios-xe-17/217046-configure-smart-licensing-using-policy-o.html), Configure: Direct connection to CSSM using Smart Transport. Checked 2026-10-01. [^58]: A Cisco Smart Account pools license entitlements in a single account, and virtual accounts subdivide those licenses within the Smart Account to suit organizational needs. Source: [System Configuration Guide for Cisco Unified Communications Manager, Release 15 and SUs - Smart Software Licensing](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/voice_ip_comm/cucm/admin/15/systemConfig/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-15/cucm_b_system-configuration-guide-14_chapter_01.html), Smart Software Licensing Overview. Checked 2026-10-01. [^59]: SSM On-Prem in disconnected mode synchronizes with Cisco by manual file transfer at least once a year; connected mode syncs daily, weekly or monthly. Source: [Cisco Smart Software Manager On-Prem Data Sheet](https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/cloud-systems-management/smart-software-manager-satellite/datasheet-c78-734539.html), Product overview: synchronization options. Checked 2026-10-01.