Without the license, the P420i can only process parity for single-drive failure tolerance (RAID 5). The license enables the RAID 6 algorithms, which compute dual parity. This allows the array to survive the simultaneous failure of two physical drives—a critical requirement for large-capacity arrays where rebuild times are lengthy, and the probability of a second drive failure during reconstruction is statistically significant.
Even with a valid key, problems occur. Here is the fix for the top three errors:
Error 1: "License key is invalid for this controller" hp smart array p420i license key
Error 2: "Evaluation period has expired. Degraded performance."
Error 3: License installed, but RAID 5 still greyed out. Without the license, the P420i can only process
Due to the age of Gen8 hardware, there is a substantial market for volume license keys or key generators.
HPE still sells legacy license kits for Gen8 controllers. The official part numbers are: Error 2: "Evaluation period has expired
Cost: Typically $200–$400 USD depending on the reseller.
Process: Buy → Receive a key via email → Enter in SSA or using ssacli.
There is a gray market for cracked or generated keys, often sold for $10–$20 on encrypted chat apps or overseas marketplaces. Here is what you risk:
For a home lab or experimental environment, the risk might be lower. But for any production (business) server: buy a real license.