Red Hat - Renewals FAQ

What is included in my Red Hat subscription?

• Expert technical support resources to answer critical questions and provide advice for planning and implementing new technology.
• System updates, alerts and patches ensuring your systems remain secure and reliable.
• Unlimited phone support (if you renew a Standard or Premium package).
• Ongoing access to the latest product releases and upgrades to keep your technology up-to-date.  
• Current technology, such as updated drivers, certified by Red Hat hardware and software partners, which means your software is always compatible.
• Access to Red Hat Network, a systems management tool that increases efficiency and productivity.
• Flexible systems management allowing you to select the right updates and patches.

How can I continue to maintain my servers with the latest Red Hat technology?

Red Hat subscriptions include maintenance and support for the Red Hat code. To continue to receive these benefits, renew your subscription.

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

You will not receive a new media kit with a renewed subscription. With an active subscription you may use any current version. Downloads of Red Hat subscription are available via the Red Hat Network https://rhn.redhat.com/

I have not used maintenance or support, do I have to renew my subscription?

We are glad to hear that your Red Hat solution has been so reliable.  To ensure your systems remain secure and current, it is important that you utilise Red Hat Network. Both Red Hat Network and Red Hat technical support can help ensure you are maximising the technology in your environment, not just fixing what is broken or out-of-date. Also many application providers will not support any of the applications running on an expired Red Hat Subscription.

What is the Red Hat Network?

Red Hat Network provides streamlined systems management for your Linux and open source infrastructure enhancing security, increasing productivity, and lowering costs. Red Hat Network seamlessly integrates into your existing infrastructure allowing you to efficiently manage your Red Hat systems, as it delivers the latest technology to you automatically. Select the pieces that are right for your system and apply updates, upgrades, and patches on your time, on your own terms.

How do I access the latest updates, patches, or security alerts for my Red Hat solution?

With an active subscription, access to updates, patches or security alerts is available via the Red Hat Network http://rhn.redhat.com

How long does my subscription last?

One-year contracts last for 12 months from time of purchase. Three-contracts last for 36 months from time of purchase.

What do I do once I receive my renewal subscription?

Go to http://www.redhat.com/activate to activate your subscription.

If i don’t renew, can I continue to use the software?

Yes, under the General Public License (GPL) you may use the software.  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 running an expired Red Hat subscription.
• Coverage from the Red Hat Open Source Assurance program, featuring an Intellectual Property Warranty for Red Hat customers. 
• Red Hat designed the program to protect customers using open source solutions.

You will 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. It is important to note that you have to pay for support for each installed system.