Microsoft Licensing Agreements for ISVs: An In-depth Guide

Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement

Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) allows service providers to use Microsoft products under licenses offered by the manufacturer. In this section, we will take a closer look at the different aspects of SPLA, including eligibility, license rights, pricing, and authorized SPLA resellers offering the agreement.

Eligibility for SPLA

Do you want to access the Microsoft licensing program, SPLA? This program offers software services to customers who rent or lease software licenses on a monthly basis.

But, to qualify for eligibility, specific criteria must be met. You must go through an authorized reseller to gain access to these licensing rights.

Before starting the process of getting an SPLA agreement, make sure that you meet the program’s criteria and have the required permission.

Remember, understanding the criteria is key to making use of this licensing program’s benefits.

License rights provided by SPLA

SPLA (Service Provider License Agreement) is a licensing program providing Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) with license rights to use software specifically designed for their business applications. This agreement allows ISVs to create a custom licensing program that meets their needs. SPLA gives access to a range of Microsoft server products, such as Windows Server, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, and Skype for Business Server.

The main benefit of SPLA is the range of pricing models depending on usage rights. ISVs can choose either a per user or per processor model based on their requirements. This lets ISVs estimate costs accurately, instead of spending money upfront on licenses that may not be fully utilized.

Authorized resellers are trained in helping ISVs set up their licensing programs. These resellers provide support throughout the SPLA engagement lifecycle, such as pricing and contract management.

ISVs should also explore License Mobility via Software Assurance when committing to SPLA. This allows users to move certain Microsoft software licenses from their servers to shared hardware owned by a third-party service provider licensed with SPLA.

SPLA is an excellent option for ISVs looking for flexible licensing models and comprehensive support. Keep in mind the usage rights as Microsoft’s pricing could lead to an unexpected bill.

Pricing based on use rights

Microsoft product licensing has a pricing structure based on usage rights. Costs are determined by how much the product is used, instead of a fixed fee. The Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) offers this cost-efficient pricing model.

For better understanding, create a table. It lists the product name, license metric, minimum number of licenses needed, and price per unit. Prices vary depending on the product bought.

Product Name	License Metric	Minimum Number of Licenses Needed	Price per Unit
Windows Server Standard Edition	Per Physical Processor	1	$6 to $22
SQL Server Enterprise Edition with Business Intelligence	Per Core	4	$29 to $325

The SPLA is only available through authorized resellers. They can help choose the right program for business needs. There are discounts, such as seasonal promotions or prepayment for services. Monitor usage to ensure cost-effectiveness.

ISVs like SPLA for predictable costs and flexibility. It’s an effective way to manage software licensing costs, while offering scalability and flexibility.

Offered through authorized SPLA resellers

The Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) provides license rights to eligible parties. These are offered through authorized SPLA resellers.

ISVs can use the program to offer software, platform and infrastructure as a service on a monthly basis to their customers. The licensing policies are designed to give businesses innovative solutions.

Resellers act as license administrators, managing the process and ensuring billing and reporting practices are all executed correctly. Microsoft also provides training programs for resellers, so they have knowledge of the latest technologies and developments.

The Mobility Partners list allows companies with Software Assurance licenses to move workloads between data centers without fees, and increase business agility.

The program is open to all solution partner segments, including VARs, software publishers, system integrators, MSPs and ISVs. Certifications need to be obtained before enrolling in the local distributor’s licensing contract.

HP is now a SAVP partner, according to Microsoft. The license agreements are offered through authorized SPLA resellers, giving customers access to the newest Microsoft products and tech solutions.

License Mobility through Software Assurance

License Mobility through Software Assurance is a crucial aspect of Microsoft Licensing Agreements for Independent Software Vendors (ISVs). This section will cover the authorization process for License Mobility through Software Assurance, along with the benefits of becoming an Authorized Mobility Partner. Additionally, we will explore the list of Authorized Mobility Partners and the advantages of being part of this program.

Authorization process

The authorization process is a must for ISVs to get license mobility through Microsoft’s Software Assurance. Microsoft offers a streamlined process for them to benefit from the program.

To start, ISVs must create an account with Microsoft Partner Network. Then, they must register on the License Mobility through Software Assurance portal. After that, they must fill out the application forms and give the details of their business applications and the Microsoft products they need licenses for.

ISVs must choose an Authorized Mobility Partner from the list to handle their licensing agreement. This partner will make sure all the licensing requirements are okay and help with any issues that may arise during the license acquisition process.

Pro Tip: Before applying for License Mobility through Software Assurance, make sure your business applications meet the criteria. This is to avoid complications in the authorization process.

For a list of authorized mobility partners for Microsoft licensing agreements, partners can check the Microsoft website.

Authorized Mobility Partners list

Partnering with an Authorized License Mobility Partner allows customers to transfer their on-premises licenses to the cloud.

This means greater flexibility for customers who want to benefit from the cloud but are not ready to migrate. ISVs can ensure all requirements are met and license transfers are done correctly.

The Authorized License Mobility Partner program offers several benefits.

• These include increased customer engagement, product differentiation in the market, and access to training resources.
• For example, one software solution provider was able to significantly increase their customer base after partnering with an Authorized License Mobility Partner.
• This allowed them to offer more value-added services and expand their business rapidly.

Companies can consult the authorized mobility partner list for guidance on becoming an Authorized License Mobility Partner with Microsoft.

This program offers speed and agility, allowing companies to provide more value and flexibility to their customers.

Benefits of becoming an Authorized License Mobility Partner

Gaining Microsoft’s Authorized License Mobility Partner status brings many benefits to software companies. The main one is the ability to run licenses on the cloud, which lowers costs and improves scalability when compared to on-premise solutions. Furthermore, it allows for easy license transfers between devices and keeps compliance through Software Assurance.

This also gives customers more flexibility when shifting workloads between service providers and data centers. This means less hassle and no extra cost when moving licenses around as needed.

Moreover, businesses with this status gain access to a list of mobility partners who have gone through due diligence, been trained on licensing rules, and have a good track record. This offers an extra layer of assurance.

ISVs should understand the perks of becoming an Authorized License Mobility Partner. Doing so can help with license usage, reduce customer costs, and lead to more success.

Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program

The Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program is a program that allows software businesses to license Microsoft products. To be eligible for the program, companies must have a signed Microsoft ISV Royalty License Agreement in place. This agreement must be signed by both the licensee and Microsoft before any licenses can be acquired.

To acquire licenses through the program, companies must work with a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Vendor (ISV) Distributor. These distributors are authorized to sell and distribute Microsoft products to ISVs.

One of the advantages of working with a local distributor is the availability of dedicated local support in managing the licensing agreement. This can include assistance with product activation, billing, and support for any issues that may arise with the licensed products.

In summary, the Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program offers software businesses a comprehensive solution for licensing Microsoft products, with eligibility criteria that includes a signed agreement and the need to work with an authorized ISV distributor. Working with a local distributor can provide additional support and assistance throughout the licensing process.

Eligibility for the program

To join the Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program, partners must meet certain criteria and prerequisites. This includes connecting their business app to Microsoft products, obeying licensing deals and meeting revenue limits set by the program. It’s vital that potential partners follow all these conditions to take part in the program and license Microsoft products for their software solutions.

The eligibility process involves several factors that partners should fulfill. This involves connecting their business app to Microsoft products, adhering to certain licensing rules and meeting revenue limits set by the program. By meeting all of these, the partners can apply and join in the program, elevating their software offerings.

Partners in all solution segments can acquire licenses via a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Distributor. They can also select a local distributor to oversee their licensing agreements. Carefulness during the acquisition process is essential to stay compliant and maintain participation in the royalty licensing program.

To take advantage of Microsoft products for their software business applications, partners must meet all the eligibility criteria and prerequisites for the program.

Licensing Microsoft products for software business applications

The Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program is ideal for software businesses looking to license Microsoft products. It offers licenses from a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Vendor and local distributor support. A table outlines the key information.

The program is for software business applications. It gives access to dedicated local support and partner with a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Vendor.

This program is available for all solution partner segments, regardless of business size. If you need to license Microsoft products for software business applications, this is the perfect solution.

Available for all solution partner segments

Microsoft’s ISV Royalty Licensing Program is a great chance for ISVs who want to build software business applications with Microsoft products. It is available to all solution partners. As a partner, you can get licenses through an Authorized Independent Software Vendor. By going with a local distributor, you get local help and management of the licensing agreement.

ISVs need the Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program to license their solutions. This program can lower costs and boost performance, especially for those who build applications that need licensing by an end-user, instead of an add-on or extension.

Microsoft gives more info about partners who can get rights to the program and guidelines on software applications. The licenses needed can change depending on the application type or your solution segment’s specific needs. So, it is important to get Microsoft licenses from authorized distributors. Using illegal software is against the law and it can cause Windows errors.

Acquiring licenses through a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Distributor

ISVs looking for Microsoft product licenses have the option to go through a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Distributor. This is part of the ISV Royalty Licensing Program. It covers software business apps, and is available for different solution partner segments.

ISVs can acquire licenses from local distributors with dedicated local support. They manage the licensing agreement easily. However, specific eligibility requirements are necessary to be part of this program. Companies must meet criteria such as having a commercial software product, integrating or embedding Microsoft products into their software product, and being able to provide customer support.

This option is smart for ISVs who want access to various licensing options and dedicated local support. It can save them time and money. Plus, it ensures they stick to Microsoft guidelines and get the best licensing solutions.

Choosing a local distributor for dedicated local support and managing the licensing agreement

ISVs must choose a local distributor for proper licensing agreement management and dedicated support. Microsoft’s ISV Royalty Licensing Program gives businesses the option of a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Vendor for all partner segments.

It is important to pick a local distributor who understands local markets and regulations. With multiple offices in different areas, businesses can efficiently operate and manage licensing agreements with their chosen distributor.

Technical and legal requirements must be met when choosing a distributor. Plus, they must provide specialized support. This service gives businesses access to knowledgeable pros who handle complex license agreements and identify optimization opportunities.

Some distributors offer managed services like consulting and advisory services. These help businesses stay compliant and optimize License Management infrastructure.

Multiple local distributors have emerged that specialize in stable licensing environments and quality advice to comply with government regulations. Choosing a reliable and efficient distributor ensures round-the-clock dedication and better return on investment.

Conclusion: Benefits of Microsoft Licensing Agreements for ISVs.

Partnering with Microsoft can bring a load of advantages for ISVs. For instance, they can access marketing materials, support channels, and competitive insights.

Microsoft is always innovating, giving ISVs a chance to stay up-to-date with the ever-evolving tech world. Plus, having a licensing agreement with Microsoft can give them credibility and trust with potential clients. By being a Microsoft partner, ISVs can flaunt their proficiency with the Microsoft technology stack.

Moreover, these licensing agreements can provide a slew of cost-saving benefits. Microsoft has flexible licensing options that can be tailored to fit ISVs’ needs. This allows them to only pay for the licenses they need, which results in great cost savings. Microsoft also offers discounted rates to ISVs in their partner program. This not only saves money but also gives a more predictable cost structure.

Getting a licensing agreement with Microsoft for ISVs has tons of benefits. They get access to valuable resources, stay competitive, gain trust from customers, and save money. Partnering with Microsoft helps ISVs to position themselves for growth and success. Therefore, if you are an ISV looking for a competitive edge in the market, consider partnering with Microsoft and getting all these benefits!

FAQs about Microsoft Licensing Agreements For Isvs: An In-Depth Guide

What is the Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program?

The Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program is a software licensing program for ISVs worldwide that allows them to license Microsoft products and integrate them into their software business applications.

What are the eligibility requirements for the ISV Royalty Licensing Program?

The ISV Royalty Licensing Program is suitable for organizations that exclusively develop software or software solutions and obtain at least 30% of their overall revenue from sales of the solution. It is available for all solution partner segments.

What is the SPLA agreement?

The Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) is for service providers and ISVs who want to license eligible Microsoft products to host software services and applications to end customers. SPLA provides license rights to host specific Microsoft products monthly for a three-year term, with pricing based on use rights. SPLA is offered through authorized SPLA resellers.

What is License Mobility through Software Assurance?

License Mobility through Software Assurance allows customers to deploy certain server application licenses on-premises or in the cloud with Authorized Mobility Partners. To host application server licenses using License Mobility through Software Assurance, you must be an Authorized License Mobility Partner. To become an Authorized License Mobility Partner, you must be a Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) partner and attach an addendum with additional License Mobility terms to your SPLA agreement. Partners whose authorization addenda have been accepted and processed by Microsoft will be placed on the Authorized Mobility Partners list. The Authorized Mobility Partners list is made publicly available to Microsoft Volume Licensing customers and is updated monthly.

How do ISVs acquire licenses for their Unified Solution?

ISVs acquire licenses for their Unified Solution through a Microsoft Authorized Independent Software Distributor. They can choose a local distributor for dedicated local support and to meet reporting requirements and manage the licensing agreement. Distributors are experts in Microsoft Licensing, creating a one-stop shopping experience.

Is the ISV Royalty Licensing Program available worldwide?

Yes, the Microsoft ISV Royalty Licensing Program is a software licensing program for ISVs worldwide and is available for all solution partner segments.