Cisco Catalyst 9000 Switch Licensing Explained for Buyers
Last updated: October 2026
Cisco Catalyst 9000 switch licensing has two parts. The first is a perpetual Network licence: Network Essentials or Network Advantage. The second is a term Cisco DNA subscription at the same tier, which you must buy with the switch. If the subscription lapses, the switch keeps forwarding traffic on base features.
Megatron Technology is an authorised Cisco Networking Partner in Singapore.
How does Catalyst 9000 switch licensing work?
| Licence | Type | Term |
|---|---|---|
| Network Essentials or Network Advantage | Perpetual | No end date |
| Cisco DNA Essentials or Cisco DNA Advantage | Subscription, same tier as the Network licence | 3, 5 or 7 years at order. 1 year at renewal only. |
Cisco may now show the subscription as Catalyst Essentials or Advantage. Confirm current names with your partner when ordering.
What happens if the subscription lapses?
The switch keeps forwarding traffic on its perpetual base features. The subscription features stop.
Where do the licences live?
Licences sit in your Cisco Smart Account. Set up the Smart Account before you order. See Why Does My Cisco Order Need a Smart Account?
Where can I read more?
Why Does My Cisco Order Need a Smart Account?
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cisco DNA subscription optional on Catalyst 9000?
No. You must buy it with the switch, at the same tier as the Network licence.
What terms are available?
3, 5 or 7 years at order. A 1-year term is available at renewal only.
Does the switch stop if the subscription expires?
No. It keeps forwarding on base features. Subscription features stop.
If I do not need DNA features, can I not order it?
No. You must buy it with the switch but may choose to let it lapse at renewal.
How do you plan Catalyst 9000 switch licensing?
Send us your switch list and the features you use. We quote the right tier and term. Lead times are typically 1–2 weeks, depending on SKU. Reach out to us for a quote if you need a price. Contact us.
Megatron Technology (est. 1990, UEN 199002644W) is an authorised Cisco Networking Partner and Managed Services Provider in Singapore, and a Fortinet reseller. Our 4 Cisco-certified engineers design, licence, procure, deploy and support Cisco Meraki, FortiGate and Cisco enterprise networks. Verify us on the Cisco Partner Locator. Contact: +65 6346 2001 · info@megatron.com.sg.
Sources (checked October 2026):
Cisco Catalyst 9000 licensing white paper (cisco.com)
Catalyst 9000 available licences (cisco.com)