Introducing Cisco License Central for GEMMS

Introduction to Cisco License Central

Cisco License Central (CLC) is online now and is a more streamlined, efficient, and intuitive platform for managing licenses and assets. The migration from My Cisco Entitlements (MCE) to CLC is part of Cisco's commitment to simplifying the licensing experience for its users. The new platform offers improved navigation, enhanced functionality, and a better user experience overall. The transition to CLC will be completed by August 31, 2025, and users are encouraged to participate in the training webinars starting June 18th to familiarize themselves with the new system.

Getting Started with CLC

To access Cisco License Central (CLC), users must have a valid Cisco ID (CCOID). Creating a CCOID involves visiting the Cisco website, submitting business contact details, and completing the registration. After registration, users need to link their CCOID to their contract number by emailing from their .mil account to the designated Cisco email address. For detailed, step-by-step instructions, please refer to the Army GEMSS Community Page for details:  https://www.wwt.com/community/army-modernization/ciscosoftwarelicenses#cisco-cco-id

Alternatively, see this link to create a CCOID: https://www.cisco.com/c/dam/en_us/training-events/training/cx-cco-id-registration.pdf

Navigating Cisco License Central

The long URL for Cisco Licensing Central is Cisco Software Central: https://software.cisco.com/software/csws/ws/platform/home

Upon logging into CLC, users land on the Overview page, where they can access various sections including Smart Account and Virtual Account selection, device inventory, and more. The Smart Account tile lets users search for and select their desired Smart Account, while the Virtual Account tile enables the selection of relevant Virtual Accounts. View all your assets and entitlements in one place or narrow down your view by selecting one or more Virtual Accounts. The selected Smart Account and Virtual Accounts remain constant as you navigate through the platform.

Using Licensing Explorer

The Cisco Licensing Explorer is part of Cisco License Central, which provides a reference guide allowing users to ask questions on smart licensing, license management, training and support, and other troubleshooting issues. 

Global Search

Quickly find licenses, contracts, subscriptions, and devices by searching for contract numbers, subscription IDs, device identifiers, and more. Note that the global search allows searching for only one item at a time, whereas the Device Inventory lets you filter and explore multiple devices and categories simultaneously.

Managing Device Inventory

Upon logging into CLC, users land on the Overview page to access Smart Account and Virtual Account selection, device inventory, and more. View all assets and entitlements in one place or filter by Virtual Accounts, which stay selected as you navigate.

The Device Inventory shows devices by categories like Covered, Not Covered, Approaching LDOS, and Past LDOS. Search by Device Identifier (Serial Number) or Sales Order number. Use the main navigation tabs to manage licenses, contracts, subscriptions, devices, and orders efficiently.

Licensing Tab

View license availability and usage data in the Licensing tab. The License Inventory displays your active entitlements, helping you manage your licenses efficiently.

• Licensing Support: Ask Licensing provides answers to licensing questions, self-service options, and the ability to connect with a support agent. The support icon for licensing is located at the top of the page, beside the globe icon, for easy access.

Exporting Data from CLC

Users can easily export device data from CLC by selecting devices and clicking the "Export Selected" button. Export options include choosing minors and file types. Once the export is ready, users receive a notification by email or immediately for smaller files. Exported reports are accessible in the "Event Log" under the "Orders" tab. 

Smaller Files:

Larger Files:

Auditing the Install Base

CLC includes tools and reports for auditing the Cisco Install Base. If any changes are identified and changes needed to your organization's account, users can fill out the US ARMY REQUEST FORM and send it to the Cisco Asset Management Team. This ensures that the install base remains accurate and up to date.

Conclusion

Cisco License Central is a major upgrade from the My Cisco Entitlements system, providing a more user-friendly and efficient platform for managing licenses and assets. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, users can navigate CLC effectively to ensure compliance and optimize their IT investments. For any questions, please refer to the FAQ guide located at the bottom left of the Cisco License page (blue destination icon). Be sure to register for the training webinars to get a head start on using the new platform.

For further information on Cisco Licensing Central or to schedule a virtual training event for your organization or agency, please contact WWT at: usarmyciscogemss@wwt.com. 

Please visit the Army GEMSS Digital Modernization Community Page to become a member. WWT's Army GEMSS experts are here to answer your questions and welcome your feedback.