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Introduction to the NCS1K2-LIC-SYS-KIT
The Cisco NCS1K2-LIC-SYS-KIT is a comprehensive licensing package designed for the Cisco NCS 1000 Series optical transport platforms. This kit provides the software entitlements required to activate advanced features on NCS 1002 chassis deployments, including coherent optics management, automation tools, and multi-layer security protocols. Based on Cisco’s official documentation, this licensing bundle is mandatory for enterprises transitioning from legacy SONET/SDH networks to programmable DWDM architectures.
Core Components and License Structure
The kit includes three primary elements:
- Base System License: Enables essential DWDM functions, including channel provisioning, performance monitoring, and fault isolation.
- Advanced Feature Add-Ons:
- Cisco Crosswork Automation: API-driven workflows for zero-touch provisioning (ZTP).
- Secure Channel Encryption: MACsec (IEEE 802.1AE) for layer 2 data integrity.
- Flexible Grid Support: ITU-T G.694.1 flex-grid allocation for spectral efficiency.
- Software Support Subscription (SSS): 12-month access to Cisco TAC, firmware updates, and security patches.
License Tiers and Feature Comparison
Cisco categorizes NCS1K2-LIC-SYS-KIT capabilities into three tiers:
| Tier | Key Features | Use Cases |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | Basic DWDM, SNMP monitoring | Legacy network upgrades |
| Advanced | MACsec, OpenConfig APIs, flex-grid | Metro DCI, 5G transport |
| Premium | Crosswork Automation, predictive analytics | Hyperscale DCI, subsea links |
Note: Upgrading tiers requires purchasing additional license keys via Cisco’s Smart Licensing portal.
Deployment Requirements and Compatibility
Supported Platforms
- Chassis: NCS 1002-A, NCS 1002-B, and NCS 1002-S (IOS XR 7.8.1 or later).
- Modules: Compatible with NCS1K-MD-32E-C= muxponders and NCS1K14-2.4TE-F2C= transport engines.
Third-Party Integration
- Optics: Validated with Acacia AC1200 and Lumentum TrueFlex Open Line Systems.
- Network Management: Integrates with SolarWinds, NetBrain, and IBM Netcool via NETCONF/YANG.
Key User Questions Addressed
Q: Can licenses be transferred between chassis?
No. Licenses are bound to the chassis serial number (SN) and controller MAC address. Transfers require a Cisco TAC-assisted process with a 72-hour service window.
Q: How does offline activation work for air-gapped networks?
Cisco’s Smart Licensing Using Policy (SLUP) allows manual token generation via Cisco License Portal. Tokens are applied locally using the CLI command license install token .
Q: What happens after the SSS expires?
The system retains feature access but loses firmware updates and TAC support. Renewals must be purchased within 90 days of expiration to avoid compliance violations.
Implementation Best Practices
- Pre-Staging: Validate chassis firmware compatibility before license upload.
- Redundancy: Deploy licenses in 1+1 active/standby mode for high availability.
- Audit Trail: Use
show license summaryto track utilization and expiry dates.
Common Pitfalls and Mitigation Strategies
- Misaligned License Tiers: Ensure the kit matches the purchased hardware capabilities (e.g., Advanced tier required for 400G-ZR optics).
- Compliance Risks: Unauthorized license sharing triggers Cisco’s Smart Account Compliance Audit, resulting in service suspension.
- Legacy Integration: Use Cisco’s Optical Network Planner tool to map legacy SONET wavelengths to DWDM channels.
Procurement and Licensing Costs
For organizations seeking verified licenses, the “NCS1K2-LIC-SYS-KIT” is available for purchase here. Pricing varies by tier:
- Essential: 12,000–12,000–12,000–18,000
- Advanced: 28,000–28,000–28,000–35,000
- Premium: $55,000+
Note: Cisco mandates Smart Account registration for all license activations.
Why Proper Licensing Impacts Network Evolution
Having overseen multiple NCS 1000 deployments, I’ve observed that underestimating licensing complexity often delays feature rollouts by 3–6 months. The NCS1K2-LIC-SYS-KIT isn’t just a compliance checkbox—it’s the gateway to leveraging Cisco’s full stack automation and security capabilities. Operators who preemptively align license tiers with 5-year roadmaps avoid costly mid-cycle upgrades, particularly when scaling from 100G to 400G wavelengths. In an era where spectral efficiency and encryption aren’t optional, strategic licensing becomes as critical as hardware selection itself.