PA-3020 - Error: Threat database handler failed - Commit failed

[tir7436]

Hello,

We have a PA-3020 running FW 7.1.24 on an end of life infrastructure to be shutdown by the end of year. This PA-3020 has no longer any subscriptions/support. We are in need to enable a Security Policy for a few hours and found we can't commit due to the Threat Database Handler failed message.

I see several posts and KB Articles regarding this issue, but they don't address my specific situation with the expired licenses.

Is there no other option to resolve this error besides involving Support or manually updating the Threat Database? How do I delete the corrupt threat database files from the file system? Why is it using the Threat database if the license for it is expired?

Thank you

[BPry]

@tir7436,

The license simply entitles you to updates to your threat database, if your license expired your device will continue to run with the current threat database that it has. 

If the fixes in the KB articles you've come across aren't working, the only way to fix the issue is through a manual upgrade or contacting support so they can gain lower level access to the firewall and remove the threat database. You can always get your SE or AM to get you a trial license for you box to fix the issue, they shouldn't have any issues getting you a trial license setup.