Forum Discussion
NimbostratusAre there unique serial numbers/keys for Virtual Edition VMs?
We have always had a hard time tracking and inventorying all of our BigIP virtuals as there is no unique key that we can use. We have developed our own database for entering reals and virtuals but there are no unique keys for the virtuals. Any solutions? thanks
2 Replies
Martin_RobbinsIn our experience the registration key that is used to activate the virtual edition is then referenced by F5 for support and contract renewal as the last block from the key plus a Z in front of it.
e.g. if you activate the VE with the registration key from F5 PGAVG-LAYCA-BOJFN-IFBQV-EIGYQAR then for support cases and renewal it will be referred by F5 as the serial number ZEIGYQAR
As far as the virtual edition unique code, this is generated from the virtual instance UUID and MAC addresses but I don't know the exact way it is calculated but I am not sure that it is not used by F5 other than in generating the activation dossier to tie the key to the virtual instance.
If a virtual edition is moved or has a new UUID or in older versions the mamagent MAC address changes, then you will have to contact F5 support to unlink the registration key to allow for a new activation to the new instance.
Jad_Tabbara__J1Cirrostratus
Hi,
As Martin said, you should use the "Registration Key".
Check this article : https://support.f5.com/csp/article/K3782
It says for BIG IP VE :
A BIG-IP Virtual Edition (VE) system does not have a similar serial number format to the previously-mentioned hardware platforms.
Note: You can use the BIG-IP VE registration key to open a support case if you encounter any issue where you require F5 Technical Support assistance. For steps to display the registration key, refer to the following sections
