How can I convert my Product Activation Key (PAK) License to a Smart License, in Cisco License Central (CLC)?

 
Updated October 8, 2026
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Introduction 

This document explains the steps to convert a Product Activation Key (PAK) license into a Smart License within Cisco License Central (CLC), enabling easier management and tracking of licenses.  

 

Video

The purpose of this content is to share information for educational and/or informational use. You may choose to watch the video or read the content below-both provide the same material, so feel free to engage with whichever format you prefer.

Prerequisites   

Before you start, ensure that you have the following:  

  • Active Cisco.com account  
  • The user accessing the License Central must have at least one of the following:  
  • Smart Account User/Admin/Viewer  
  • Virtual Account User/Admin/Viewer  

  

Steps  

Step 1: Go to Cisco Software Central and log in with your Cisco.com credentials.    

Step 2: Click on Access Cisco License Central under the Cisco License Central section.    

Step 3: Enter your Smart Account or use the Search function to search for a Smart Account.  

Step 4: Navigate to the Left Menu bar and click on "Licensing".  

Step 5: Start the license-conversion workflow using either of these methods: 

  1. In the License Inventory dashboard, select the required licenses and open the License Advisor tab. Under How do you want to expand your network with Smart Licensing?, Click Convert Licenses. 

OR 

  1. Locate the required license, open the three-dot menu, and click Convert Licenses. 

Step 6: Select the Target Virtual Account where the converted licenses should be deposited.. 

Step 7: Enter the quantity of licenses you want to convert. 

Step 8: In the Action column, select Find Expansion to identify the licenses available for conversion. 

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Note: If you change the source licenses or quantities, click Save to apply the changes.

Step 9: After confirming that all information is correct, click Expand Network to complete the license conversion. 

Results: The selected license quantity is converted and made available in the specified target Virtual Account. 

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Note: Before conversion, licenses must be associated with the Smart Account, and the user must have access to that Smart Account.

Troubleshooting  

If you experience an issue during the process explained in this document, open a case in Support Case Manager (SCM).  

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