Key Takeaway:
- CSP is a licensing agreement introduced by Microsoft in 2015 that provides end-users with the ability to purchase Microsoft cloud services and software licenses directly through Microsoft partners who bundle them with their services. Products and services offered in CSP include Microsoft 365, Microsoft Azure, and a subset of server and desktop licenses.
- CSP offers end-users a tailored approach to IT services, helping them optimize their IT infrastructure and achieve better business outcomes. CSP also offers flexibility and cost-savings compared to traditional licensing channels, including discounts and migration from Enterprise Agreement.
- Understanding CSP pricing can be complex and requires regular updates on pricing files. End-users should work closely with their CSP provider to ensure they have the most up-to-date information and pricing for their needs.
Introduction to CSP
Microsoft’s Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program is a subscription-based licensing model that simplifies the procurement and management of cloud services. In this section, we will explore the key aspects of CSP, including the licensing agreement, available products and services, and the differences between CSP and traditional licensing channels. The CSP program offers a range of cloud services, including Microsoft Azure, Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, and Power Platform. CSP customers benefit from a pay-as-you-go model and the ability to scale services as needed. Compared to traditional licensing channels, CSP offers more flexible and cost-effective pricing options. With information backed by reliable sources, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive introduction to CSP and equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions.
CSP licensing agreement
CSP (Cloud Solutions Provider) offers a variety of IT products and services to businesses everywhere. These include Microsoft 365, Azure, Dynamics 365, Power Platform, and Windows Virtual Desktop.
CSP provides custom solutions, suiting each customer’s requirements. Plus, the licenses are part of their subscription, saving clients time and money.
The traditional way of licensing requires lots of agreements and high initial costs. CSP’s monthly/yearly subscription model offers flexibility, with no financial penalties. It’s suitable for companies of all sizes.
With a CSP licensing agreement in place, users have access to top-notch IT products and services without upfront costs or long-term contracts.
Products and services available in CSP
CSP offers a wide range of products and services, such as security solutions and Office 365 add-ons. Customers can pick between monthly and annual subscriptions, to suit their business needs.
With CSP, clients get Microsoft support on their solutions, with no extra fees. The platform is highly adaptable, allowing customers to personalise their subscription plans.
License management is easy, as resellers handle most administrative tasks for the customer. Plus, pricing is based on consumption, which saves money.
CSP also provides tools to monitor and control service usage, plus take advantage of Microsoft’s cloud infrastructure. There are incentives too, like discounts when migrating from traditional licensing channels.
With remote work and security concerns, traditional licensing may not be ideal. Join millions of others who use CSP’s flexibility and its wide range of products and services.
Differences between CSP and traditional licensing channels
Comprehending software licensing channels is essential. CSP and traditional models differ in many ways. CSP offers tailored IT services with software licenses included. On the other hand, traditional models only deliver software licenses. Furthermore, CSP provides more flexibility, discounts, and migration options.
Payment model varies between CSP and traditional channels. Traditional channels necessitate an upfront payment with no way to modify usage. But, CSP offers a pay-as-you-go model, enabling users to adjust licenses as per their requirements. Service bundling also differs. Software licenses for traditional channels are purchased from IT service vendors separately. Whereas, CSP provides IT services and software licenses within one subscription.
Maintenance and support for CSP and traditional channels are handled differently. Technical support for traditional channels comes with extra fees. But, CSP includes maintenance and support in its subscription plan.
CSP provides licensing models that suit different business needs. It also includes services other than licensing, such as a devoted customer support team, partner-to-partner collaboration resources, and technical assistance post-deployment. Microsoft is promoting CSP adoption over Enterprise Agreements due to its outstanding offerings. Moreover, Microsoft has increased prices on Enterprise Agreement products and services, so customers are looking for more cost-effective plans like CSP.
Benefits of CSP for end-users
As an end-user of Microsoft products, you want to ensure you maximize your investment. In this section, we will explore the benefits of Microsoft CSP for end-users. Microsoft CSP offers tailored IT services that include licenses, maximum discounts, and a smooth migration process from the Enterprise Agreement. With our reference data, which is backed by industry-leading experts, we can assist you in making an informed decision that’s right for your business.
Tailored IT services with licenses included
Microsoft’s Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) allows service providers to customize their clients’ IT services to fit their needs. This channel grants access to the latest software and technical support, without additional costs.
CSP’s subscriptions are tailored to clients’ individual needs, charging only for what is used. This is more flexible than committing to a bulk Enterprise Agreement (EA). Migration of existing agreements is also promoted.
Dynamic pricing and updates are based on customer usage rates. Companies can plan and budget according to traffic levels or cloud usage, without fixed-term commitments. This was especially beneficial during the COVID-19 pandemic when work from home became prevalent.
CSP provides enterprises with tailored IT solutions and software licenses while limiting redundancies from low utilization. CSP updates keep up with the changing IT landscape. By leaving the EA, companies can take advantage of discounts and benefits offered by CSP.
Discounts and migration from Enterprise Agreement
When it comes to Microsoft’s cloud solutions and software licenses, choosing CSP can offer a multitude of benefits. These include tailored IT services, discounts, and included licenses. CSP enables end-users to switch from Enterprise Agreement to a more flexible licensing option. This includes consultation, deployment, and implementation. Customers can also customize the subscription to meet their needs without extra charges.
Organizations can modify their subscription solution according to their requirements with CSP. Unlike Enterprise Agreements, customers pay only for what they need with CSP. This means they can adjust based on market demands without heavy financial commitments.
However, migrating from an Enterprise Agreement to a new model requires careful consideration of factors, like aligned business goals, contract termination penalties, and transition costs. It is advised to get professional help from Microsoft or trusted Cloud Solution Providers for larger deployments or customizations upgrade/expansion.
A multinational retail corporation shifted to CSP license management and decreased unnecessary licensing expenses by 30% within two months. This was done by identifying and eliminating unused products that were being paid for under their previous Enterprise Agreement.
If you are interested in CSP pricing, you need to reach deep into your pockets to uncover its mysteries. But with discounts and migration from an enterprise agreement, maybe it is worth the investment.
Understanding CSP pricing
Do you want to learn more about Microsoft’s Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) pricing? In this section, we will provide an overview of Microsoft’s pricing model for their various products and services. We’ll also explore how pricing files and updates play into the CSP pricing structure. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of CSP pricing and be able to make informed decisions for your business.
Overview of Microsoft products and services pricing
Microsoft’s pricing for products and services can be found in the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program. It offers IT services, licenses and discounts to end-users.
CSP offers many products and services, like Azure, Dynamics 365, Office 365, and Windows Virtual Desktop. Prices vary depending on location, number of users/devices, and support plans.
To make sure prices are clear, Microsoft provides pricing files and updates for each product or service.
Microsoft 365 has certain subscription plans that may get more expensive in the upcoming year. However, customers can avoid these increases by signing up for annual agreements instead of monthly ones.
Pricing files and updates
Pro CSP pricing files and updates are essential for end-users when choosing Microsoft cloud solutions or software licenses. CSP offers a comprehensive view of product and service rates, including frequent updates that reflect market changes. Microsoft updates their Pricing Files regularly. They’re available on the Cloud Solution Provider portal.
The files have all the details needed, such as license types, service availability, prices for each market, minimum purchase requirements, and terms of services. This makes it easy for CSP users to match their budgets with subscription offerings.
See below for an example of what the Pricing Files may cover:
Products/Services | License Type | Market 1 (Price) | Market 2 (Price) |
---|---|---|---|
Azure VM | Basic | $100/month | €120/month |
Standard | $150/month | €180/month | |
Office 365 | E1 | $10/user/month | £8/user/month |
E3 | $25/user/month | £20/user/month |
It is important to stay up-to-date with the newest pricing info. Microsoft updates the Pricing Files based on guidelines, licensing agreements, or market trends.
Pro Tip: To save time, subscribe to email notifications from Microsoft or contact your CSP provider. They’ll keep you informed of the latest licensing models and prices.
Goodbye Enterprise Agreement! Hello flexible licensing models with CSP.
Transitioning from Enterprise Agreements to CSP
As businesses adapt to the new reality posed by COVID-19, transitioning from traditional Enterprise Agreements to Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) licenses is becoming essential. The pandemic has significantly impacted Enterprise Agreements, and businesses can benefit from the flexible licensing models offered by CSP.
Impact of COVID-19 on Enterprise Agreements
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge effect on businesses around the globe, including their licensing contracts with Microsoft. The move to remote work and digital solutions revealed the need for adaptable licensing models for software and cloud services.
Therefore, many firms are thinking of transitioning from traditional Enterprise Agreements to the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) model. This gives them more control over their licenses and can reduce costs. It also includes licenses and discounts for migration from Enterprise Agreements.
COVID-19 has made CSP models more important. It disturbed business operations everywhere, demanding companies to restructure their teams and rapidly adjust to new ways of working. As a result, many need software services that support remote work, which CSP can deliver. In brief, CSP models are essential to make sure businesses stay strong and adaptable despite the pandemic’s difficulties.
Benefits of flexible licensing models in CSP
CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) offers benefits to end-users with its flexible licensing models. You can select monthly or annual payment plans, or even “per-user per-month” licenses to scale up your IT services.
It also has multiple licensing tiers, so you can choose a plan that meets your business needs. For instance, you can opt for “Azure only” if that’s all you need.
You can transfer unused licenses from one month to the next. This helps optimize spending and take advantage of the licenses when needed.
CSP allows you to control IT expenditure while still enjoying top-quality services. You can get Microsoft cloud solutions and software licenses without long-term commitments.
Microsoft 365 price increase
Did you know that Microsoft is planning to increase the prices of some of its business and enterprise products in 2022, but not Microsoft 365? In this segment, we’ll clear up any confusion about product pricing and explore the features and benefits of Microsoft 365. We’ll also offer tips on how to get the most out of Microsoft 365 and how to sign up for annual agreements to enjoy greater value and predictable costs.
Details of price increase for Microsoft 365 in 2022
Microsoft recently announced that customers subscribed to Microsoft 365 will face a price increase from March 1, 2022. This impacts both commercial and academic customers. Microsoft needs to implement regular updates on licensing fees to keep its services up-to-date. The new pricing reflects the value of innovation in services.
However, customers with annual agreements or Enterprise Agreements with Microsoft will not be affected. They have fixed pricing until renewal. CSP partners must provide customers with details of the price increase for Microsoft 365 in 2022. This will help them prepare for the changes and not be surprised.
To avoid the Microsoft 365 price increase, customers should lock in with annual agreements. It is important for all Microsoft 365 customers to know about the change. CSP partners must provide all the necessary information.
Avoiding price increase with annual agreements
Many Microsoft 365 end-users are anxious about the upcoming cost increase. But, it is possible to dodge it. Opting for an annual agreement with a Cloud Service Provider (CSP) can secure current prices and keep price hikes away in 2022.
Go for an annual plan and you can escape the 2022 Microsoft 365 cost increase. You can also assure your present costs via a pricing lock-in. CSP can provide moldable licensing models that fit your business needs. This lets you budget and control your finances better.
Moreover, CSP has discounted prices that include tailored IT services. Annual agreements require commitment for a longer period, but they guarantee the stability and predictability that budget planning needs.
You can reduce software costs while still using Microsoft’s top technology with CSP’s various pricing structures. The COVID-19 economic impact has made picking an annual agreement more vital for businesses. Selecting an annual plan from a reputable CSP reseller or partner can steady your software licensing fees, even in the midst of rising costs.
One company minimized its Azure use by forty percent year-over-year without any sacrifice in functionality. This was made possible by CSP’s yearly billing plan. They were assisted with outages, usage patterns and other issues with monthly reports and advice from their CSP partner, as well as excellent customer service.
New Commerce Experience in CSP
In the world of Microsoft CSP pricing, a new commerce experience (NCE) has gained importance. This section provides insight into the NCE launched in 2019, expanded in 2020 to include other Microsoft products and services, and tools for resellers to manage subscriptions in NCE. Explore the new commerce experience in CSP and get ready for an enhanced user experience.
Launch of NCE in 2019 for Microsoft Azure
In 2019, Microsoft shook up their cloud computing platform with the launch of their new Commerce Experience (NCE). It introduced advanced features like personalized product recommendations and a simplified procurement process.
NCE had a usage-based pricing model, meaning users only paid for what they consumed. This was a huge advantage for cost-sensitive organizations. Plus, they could browse and filter cloud services by product type or billing method.
Recently, in 2021 Microsoft expanded NCE’s capabilities. They moved towards offering all of their products under the same purchasing model. This includes new features, improved pricing options, and simplified account management tools.
These tools make it easier for resellers to manage subscription services. Plus, they can manage customers easily with an intuitive interface. As a result, NCE has become the central purchasing model for all of Microsoft’s products.
Expansion of NCE to include other Microsoft products and services in 2021
Microsoft launched the New Commerce Experience (NCE) program for Azure in 2019, and in 2021, it widened to include other products and services. NCE provides a central platform to manage subscriptions, with features such as ordering online, invoice and subscription management, and license provision.
The expansion of NCE to Dynamics 365, Power Apps, and other cloud solutions offers customers a simpler buying experience. It empowers partners with the tools to manage client subscriptions and oversee licensing terms and costs.
NCE brings more flexible licensing models at reduced cost, in contrast to traditional Enterprise Agreement (EA) models. Streamlined processes in the NCE model also improve operational efficiency compared to EA methods.
Integrating NCE into EAs allows for simpler pricing structures with flexible billing options. This improves cost management while still providing performance and support resources.
Tools for resellers to manage subscriptions in NCE
Resellers can utilize various tools to manage subscriptions on NCE with ease. These tools help manage user workloads, resources, and subscriptions throughout the subscription lifecycle. With tools such as Subscription Performance Metrics, resellers can accurately track adoption rates, resource usage, and consumption variance. This gives resellers the ability to offer better customer service while maximizing profits.
The Partner Center API is another tool available to resellers. This API grants programmatic access to Microsoft products and services within NCE. By using this API, partners can automate provisioning requests, retrieve subscription data, create new offers/marketing campaigns, and do other tasks vital for smooth operations.
The delegation management tool allows resellers to assign admin rights to other users, granting access to only necessary resources. NCE tools have flexible licensing models that allow resellers to increase or decrease resources according to customers’ changing demands. This leads to increased revenue generation and better subscription user bases.
Microsoft’s New Commerce Experience (NCE) simplifies subscription management and brings together different product groups on one platform. Resellers can subscribe as a direct CSP partner or use distribution partners to access these tools.
Conclusion: Advantages of choosing CSP for Microsoft cloud solutions and software licenses.
Are you seeking cloud solutions and software licenses? Microsoft’s CSP model is a great option! It offers many benefits for businesses looking to save money and customize their subscription.
CSP makes it easy to scale up or down as needed. Companies can choose from a wide range of Microsoft solutions and enjoy streamlined billing with no upfront costs.
CSP eliminates the large costs associated with traditional software licensing. Plus, businesses can predict their subscription cost and manage their IT budgets better.
Partnering with a CSP partner gives businesses access to experts who can help with deployment, migration, and ongoing training and support.
All in all, partnering with a CSP partner for Microsoft cloud solutions and software licenses provides benefits like flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and expert support.
Five Facts About Microsoft CSP Pricing: What You Need to Know:
- ✅ CSP stands for Cloud Solution Provider, a licensing agreement introduced by Microsoft in 2015 that allows end-users to procure Microsoft cloud services and software licenses directly from Microsoft partners who bundle them with their services. (Source: samexpert.com)
- ✅ CSP offers Microsoft public cloud subscriptions such as Office 365, Microsoft Azure, and Dynamics CRM Online. (Sources: samexpert.com, Quexcel)
- ✅ CSP allows for more flexible licensing models with the ability to scale up and down as needed, making it a next-generation software licensing option. (Sources: team research, blog.shi.com)
- ✅ The latest Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) programs and offers can be found in the Pricing workspace of the Partner Center, which includes license-based and usage-based services with separate pricing information for different products and services. (Source: learn.microsoft.com)
- ✅ Microsoft is constantly evolving its CSP program, with the recent launch of the New Commerce Experience (NCE) offering new tools to simplify and manage subscriptions. (Sources: Pax8, blog.shi.com)
FAQs about Microsoft Csp Pricing: What You Need To Know
What is Microsoft CSP?
Microsoft CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) is a licensing program introduced by Microsoft in 2015 that allows end-users to procure Microsoft cloud services and software licenses directly from Microsoft partners who bundle them with their services. Products and services available in CSP include Microsoft 365, Microsoft Azure, and a subset of server and desktop licenses. CSP modernizes the customer experience by creating a relationship between the end-user, Microsoft, and a skilled partner who manages the subscription and provides one point of contact for all needs.
What are the benefits of Microsoft CSP?
End-users can benefit from CSP by receiving tailored IT services with licenses included, discounts, and migration from an Enterprise Agreement. CSP allows for more flexible licensing models with the ability to scale up and down as needed, making it a next-generation software licensing option.
What is the difference between CSP and traditional Microsoft licensing channels?
Although CSP requires signing a licensing agreement with Microsoft, there are significant differences between CSP and traditional Microsoft licensing channels in terms of operation, product availability, and licensing terms and conditions. With CSP, customers receive one point of contact for all their needs, while traditional licensing channels provide tiered pricing levels. CSP also only applies to Microsoft public cloud subscriptions, while traditional licensing applies to on-premise software licensing.
What products and services are included in CSP?
Products and services available in CSP include Microsoft 365, Azure, and a subset of server and desktop licenses. CSP is not just a licensing platform, it also offers flexibility and mandatory 24/7 support from partners.
How do customers pay for CSP subscriptions?
Customers sign a contract with Microsoft for cloud subscriptions and receive support and invoices from their CSP partner. CSP pricing includes separate pricing information for different products and services, with license-based services and usage-based services. Customers can choose to make annual or monthly payments depending on their preference and budget.
How will the price change for Microsoft 365 affect CSP subscribers?
Microsoft plans to increase the prices for Microsoft 365 in 2022 for specific SKUs purchased with an annual commitment and monthly subscriptions. The price increase can be avoided by choosing annual agreements. Additionally, Microsoft is providing more value to its customers through the New Commerce Experience, which includes new terms to simplify subscriptions and offer more insights to resellers.