Subscription Renewal FAQ

Q: I paid for the subscription last year, why do I need to renew?

A: You initially purchased a 12 month subscription, which includes updates, maintenance and support. Renewing your subscription continues your benefits.

When you buy proprietary software, you pay an upfront license fee and then pay for maintenance every year. When you purchase a Red Hat subscription, you are buying open source software and therefore not paying a license fee, but you pay for the total subscription—including updates, services and support you need for the year.

Q: How much does it cost to renew?

A: For pricing information for your subscription renewal, contact your value added reseller or Red Hat sales. If you would like someone to contact you, please complete a contact form.

Q: What is included in my Red Hat Enterprise Linux subscription?

A: With an active subscription you continuously receive updated technology to keep your systems running safely and reliably. A Red Hat Enterprise Linux subscription is how Red Hat helps you:

• Keep your systems secure - Red Hat quickly provides the latest security patches, all extensively tested.
• Access technical support and resources you can trust - Deploy confidently with the backing of the Linux experts at Red Hat.
• Automate everyday maintenance tasks- Save time and become more efficient by using Red Hat Network to manage your systems.
• Get the latest software faster- Always tested and ready to go.
• Grow your technology infrastructure responsibly- Subscriptions are an easier, more efficient way of growing your infrastructure.

Q: How can I manage my subscription?

A: Through Red Hat Network, a web-based systems management tool. Red Hat Network is designed to simplify maintenance tasks and enhance productivity. With automatic delivery of the latest Red Hat technology, you will be able to efficiently manage your systems and select the right updates, patches and upgrades for your environment.

Q: If I don't renew, can I continue to use the software?

A: Yes, under the General Public License (GPL), you may use the software and maintain your own custom version of Linux. However, you will not have access to:

• Technical support from Red Hat.
• Security or software updates via Red Hat Network. You will have to find updates from alternative resources that provide reliable, secure downloads.
• Support from certified hardware suppliers or software vendors like Oracle for applications running on an expired Red Hat Enterprise Linux subscription.
• Coverage from the Red Hat Open Source Assurance program, featuring an Intellectual Property Warranty for Red Hat Enterprise Linux customers. Red Hat designed the program to protect customers using open source solutions.

Please note that when your subscription expires you will still be bound by the terms and conditions of the End User License Agreement and will have to remove all copies of Red Hat Network Code.

Q: How long does my subscription last?

A: One year subscriptions last for 12 months from the date of purchase. Three-year subscriptions last for 36 months from the date of purchase.

Q: Will I receive new media if I renew my Red Hat subscription?

A: Yes, at the time of your renewal you can request a new media kit. Remember, with an active subscription, you may use any current version. For example, Enterprise Linux versions 2.1 and 3 are both currently available via Red Hat Network for customers with an active subscription.

Q: I have not used maintenance or support. Do I have to renew my subscription?

A: We are glad to hear that your Red Hat solution has been reliable and you have not needed technical support. By renewing your subscription you can ensure that support is available to you if you do need it in the future. In addition to helping with current problems, Red Hat technical support professionals are available to help provide the additional expertise you may need when planning new technology deployments. Use Red Hat technical support when you need advice or ideas, not just when you run into problems.

Q: How do I access the latest updates, patches, or security alerts for Enterprise Linux?

A: Go to Red Hat Network for the latest updates, upgrades, and patches. Apply them to your systems as needed, or set up your account to automatically install critical updates.

You will also receive email notices when new Red Hat Enterprise Linux technology becomes available. Visit rhn.redhat.com for more information.

Q. When I renew, can I change my subscription to include other products or more/less of what I initially purchased?

A. Yes, you may add to or alter your existing subscription to meet your technology needs. Please contact your value added reseller or Red Hat sales to discuss your technology needs. If you would like someone to contact you, please complete a contact form.

Q. I forgot to renew my subscription and it has expired. Can I still renew?

Yes. To renew your subscription, contact your value added reseller or Red Hat sales. If you would like someone to contact you, please complete a contact form.

Q. How do I renew my subscription?

To renew your subscription, contact your value added reseller or Red Hat sales. If you would like someone to contact you, please complete a contact form.

Q: What do I do once I receive my renewal subscription?

A: Go to www.redhat.com/register to activate your subscription.