Cisco Smart License is a software-based licensing solution provided by Cisco Systems, a leading networking and IT solutions company. It offers a more flexible and streamlined way for customers to manage and deploy software licenses for their Cisco network devices and software applications. Here are some key points about Cisco Smart License:

1. Licensing Model: Cisco Smart License replaces traditional product authorization keys (PAKs) with a digital licensing model. Instead of using physical keys, licenses are managed digitally through a central Cisco Smart Software Manager (CSSM) portal.

2. Centralized Management: The Cisco Smart Software Manager provides a centralized platform for customers to view, manage, and allocate their licenses across their network infrastructure.

3. Simplified Procurement: Smart License eliminates the need to manually enter license keys on each device, streamlining the procurement process and reducing administrative overhead.

4. Easier Deployment: Licenses can be automatically applied to devices without manual intervention, making it simpler to deploy and activate licenses on network devices.

5. Usage Tracking and Reporting: Smart License allows organizations to monitor and track the usage of software licenses, helping them optimize license allocation and usage.

6. Flexibility: Customers can move licenses between devices more easily, allowing for better scalability and adaptability as network requirements change.

7. Subscription-based Licensing: Cisco offers various subscription-based licensing models, which can provide more cost-effective options for customers.

8. License Portability: Licenses can be moved between hardware devices or virtual instances, enabling greater flexibility for businesses with dynamic network environments.

9. Cloud Integration: Smart License integrates with Cisco's cloud services, making it possible to manage licenses across distributed and cloud-based environments.

10. Automation: Cisco provides APIs and automation tools that allow organizations to integrate Smart License management into their existing IT workflows.

11. Compliance and Security: Smart License helps organizations maintain compliance with software licensing agreements and enhances security by reducing the risk of unauthorized license use.

12. Remote Management: As licenses are managed digitally, organizations can remotely monitor and manage licenses for devices located in various geographical locations.

Cisco Smart License is designed to simplify the licensing process and provide more visibility and control over software licenses in complex network environments. It aligns with the industry trend toward software-defined networking (SDN) and cloud-based management solutions, allowing organizations to efficiently manage their Cisco software assets.