Q: What is the behavior when a license on NetScaler or NetScaler Gateway appliance expires?

A: NetScaler or NetScaler Gateway license files are read during the boot process of the appliance. If the license file expires when the NetScaler or NetScaler Gateway appliance is running, then the appliance continues to function with the expired license. However, if the appliance is restarted, then after the appliance starts to run it detects that the license file has expired and all features are disabled.

The following screen shot is for an appliance with a valid license file until 1 May, 2014:

The following screen shot shows that the appliance is running after the license has expired:

The following screen shot shows that the features are disabled after the appliance restarts:

Additional Resources

CTX121062 - How to License NetScaler Appliances Using Manage Licenses Tool