Network configuration for the virtual edition of Big-IP LTM

That's a steep learning curve for you then but at least with VE you can 'break' it and still start again.

I don't see any reason why you couldn't upgrade to a full product from a trial version with a simple license key. Whether the trail version is good enough only depends on the expected traffic throughput; that's the only restriction. I know the Lab edition is restricted to 10Mb (combined in and out I think), not sure about the trial edition.

An upgrade shouldn't be too much trouble if the configuration isn't too complex or large scale but I'd highly recommend starting on v11.3 at least if you can get a Lab/evaluation license for it. The virtualisation will be easier, the default license limits are more generous and there are many new features and enhancements that you'll benefit from.

If you can get in touch with a good reseller or F5 directly it shouldn't be hard to get a v11 trial and possibly more importantly some useful support and advice.