Release Found: Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5

The Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5 subscription number (sometimes referred to as installation number or registration number) is a 16-character text string that can be used during the installation process.

Why should I use the subscription number?

Entering a Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5 subscription number allows the installer to:

• Access the full set of supported packages included with the subscription at install time

• Automatically register the system to all RHN channels included with the subscription at install time

What happens if I click “Skip” and don't enter a subscription number?

If the subscription number is not entered, the installer will proceed to install the core operating system. But, the installer will not be able to install additional packages that may have been purchased with the subscription. These packages would be from channels other than the base channel, such as Storage or Virtualization. Any packages not installed during system installation can be manually added post-installation after the system is registered to Red Hat Network .

How do I add a subscription number after installation if I skip it during installation?

If you skip entering the number during installation you do not have to enter it later. You will simply register your system to RHN manually using the rhn_register command. The subscription number is not needed when registering to RHN, as long as the subscription has been activated.

When am I required to use a subscription number?

The subscription number is optional during installation if the subscription is already active. The installer provides an opportunity to enter the subscription number  for both attended and unattended (such as Kickstart) installations.

What if I have a 30 day evaluation copy of Red Hat Enterprise Linux?

If you received a 30 day evaluation copy from our website, there is no need to enter a subscription number. Simply click "Skip" when prompted for the number during installation. If you received your evaluation from a Sales Representative or from Customer Service, the subscription number must be activated before it can be used. Activate your subscription number here (RHN login required). During installation, you can enter this subscription number or click "Skip".

Are all subscription numbers unique?

Subscription numbers are unique per order, not per system. The subscription number represents the Red Hat Enterprise Linux features included with a subscription. It is primarily used to configure the installer. Multiple systems that have identical subscription features and SLAs can be installed with the same subscription number.

For more information on Subscription Numbers, see How do I find my subscription number and How does the subscription number apply to Red Hat products other than Red Hat Enterprise Linux 5? or the FAQ.