Microsoft Licensing for Software Resellers: An Overview

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By Redress Compliance

Key Takeaways:

  • Microsoft partners have access to several licensing programs, including the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program, Microsoft Cloud Partner Program program, Enterprise Agreement (EA) licenses, Volume Licensing (VL), OEM license program, Software Assurance training or vouchers program, and Open Licensing. Each program has specific agreements and terms associated with it.
  • Partners can seek help with licensing questions from their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor, or by reaching out to their Microsoft contacts or internal team of licensing experts. There are also general resources available for licensing and license training, which may require program enrollment to access.
  • Through Microsoft’s Commercial Licensing program, customers have flexible access to any Microsoft product or service, with the goal of delivering a unified commerce experience. The Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) program provides licensing for eligible Microsoft products for hosting software services, with pricing based on use rights for a three-year term. In addition, licenses can be shared within an organization that earns them, limited to the subscribing country for Action Pack subscribers and on a per-country or worldwide maximum license cap for competency partners.

Overview of Microsoft Licensing Programs

Microsoft offers a variety of licensing options for software resellers. In this section, we will provide an overview of Microsoft’s licensing programs, including Cloud Solution Provider, Microsoft Partner Network, Enterprise Agreement, Volume Licensing, OEM Licensing, Software Assurance Training, and Open Licensing. Microsoft provides flexible cloud solutions and streamlined licensing options for organizations of all sizes.

Cloud Solution Provider program

The Cloud Solution Provider program is made to give partners control. It lets them take care of customer needs, such as billing, support and maintenance. Microsoft cloud services offer lots of features. Partners can connect with providers or use the Microsoft Partner Center for help.

The program is designed to give customers great experiences. It encourages customer service excellence and helps partners increase their revenue.

Partners can use tools like dashboard visibility, streamlined billing and management, automatic deployment and 24/7 phone support from Microsoft cloud experts.

But, access to the program is not easy. To get the benefits, partners must fill out the CSP application form and provide the documents Microsoft asks for.

Microsoft Cloud Partner Program

The Microsoft Cloud Partner Program offers partners a comprehensive licensing program. This includes access to tools, resources, marketing materials, technical support, and training. It also provides multiple options for selling Microsoft cloud services. These include the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program and the indirect reseller program. Plus, an Enterprise Agreement is available too.

The CSP program allows partners to manage customer subscriptions and bundle their own services with Microsoft cloud offerings. The program also supports business expansion through technical support and training. Plus, it has marketing materials and sales enablement tools to help attract and maintain customers.

In summary, the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program gives partners the resources they need to succeed in the cloud service business.

Enterprise Agreement licenses

Microsoft’s Enterprise Agreement licenses are perfect for huge organizations that need a customized purchasing option and regular payments over a three-year term. This licensing program lets customers pick from a range of products and services, such as on-premises software, cloud solutions, hybrid options, and tech support.

Customers who opt for the Enterprise Agreement licensing option also get Software Assurance coverage. It guarantees access to the most recent versions of products and aids with deployment planning. Plus, there are various bonuses for Enterprise Agreement customers, like discounts based on commitment levels and simplified license control through a special online portal known as the Volume Licensing Service Center.

To aid customers get the most out of their Enterprise Agreement licenses, Microsoft offers several tools and resources such as the License Positioning Statement (LPS) tool and the Microsoft Product List (MPL). These assist in understanding how certain products can be licensed under the Enterprise Agreement program.

In short, the Enterprise Agreement licensing option by Microsoft is fitting for organizations that require flexibility, predictable payments, and discounted rates. It guarantees access to the latest technology and provides customers with further support and deployment planning services.

Volume Licensing

Microsoft’s Volume Licensing Program offers large and medium-sized businesses the chance to purchase multiple software product licenses at a discounted price. This program is designed for organizations that need a large amount of licenses across different products.

Organizations can choose from various agreements such as Enterprise Agreement (EA), Select Plus Agreement, or Open License. Additionally, flexible payment options are available to manage expenses efficiently.

Organizations that use the Volume Licensing Program gain access to resources like Software Assurance training, vouchers programs, product-specific license agreements, and a Microsoft team of experts for guidance and support.

XYZ Corp. is an example of a business that has successfully used the Volume Licensing Program. It has multiple branches worldwide and has obtained an Enterprise Agreement with Microsoft. This program provides flexibility in managing organizational use across multiple sites while staying compliant with software legal requirements.

It is key to note that the OEM license program is different from volume licensing. OEM licensing is a program for computer manufacturers to pre-install Microsoft software on their devices before selling them to customers.

OEM license program

The OEM License Program gives original equipment manufacturers a solution to customize and sell devices with pre-installed Microsoft software. They can purchase licenses in bulk and install them on their devices. It is ideal for makers of PCs, laptops, tablets, etc. Devices must come with a version of Windows OS or other Microsoft apps like Office or Visual Studio.

Installers must make sure users accept the software agreement, and users get updates from Microsoft. OEMs must follow guidelines set by Microsoft when customizing hardware and software components. They can get licenses at a discount and support services through the partner center portal. The program also allows for the customization and branding of systems with logos or images.

Microsoft’s Software Assurance program provides more than software. It includes training and vouchers too. Don’t compromise when it comes to software solutions – get the OEM License Program.

Software Assurance training or vouchers program

Microsoft’s Software Assurance program provides businesses with the resources they need to stay up-to-date and efficient. It offers comprehensive training and support, such as software upgrades, deployment planning, and onboarding users. Participation gives access to licensed tools and cloud services. Plus, Microsoft offers free instructor-led classroom and virtual courses.

For licensing questions, there are assigned indirect providers and program distributors. Alternatively, contact Microsoft contacts or their internal teams of experts. This ensures that organizations get the expert advice they need to make informed decisions.

Lastly, Microsoft’s Open Licensing program provides a streamlined process for businesses to obtain licenses. By partnering with Microsoft, businesses can take advantage of the many benefits, ensuring they have the resources to stay competitive and efficient.

Open Licensing

Microsoft’s Open Licensing program offers customers discounts on a range of products. These include Office Suites, Windows Client OS, and Server Products. It is great for businesses with multiple users or devices.

Payment options are flexible. Customers can pay upfront or annually over three years. License Advisor helps manage software assets and ensure compliance.

The agreement is simple and understandable. Plus, there are other benefits like scalable licensing and standardized pricing. Customers can also get customized price quotes and access licenses through one partner/distributor in certain countries. Open Licensing is an efficient and cost-saving program for businesses!

Agreements and terms associated with each program

Agreements and terms associated with each Microsoft licensing program are crucial for software resellers to understand. In this section, we will take a closer look at the product-specific license agreements that outline the terms and conditions for using each software product offered by Microsoft. Understanding these agreements is key to ensuring compliance and avoiding any potential licensing disputes with clients.

Product-specific license agreements

Product-specific license agreements are made to determine user and device rights when using, installing, and sharing software. They also list transferability, upgrade paths, support services, and compliance demands. Microsoft provides various products, such as Office 365, Windows OS, Dynamics 365, and more, that come under these agreements.

It’s important to be aware that each agreement has one-of-a-kind stipulations, e.g. minimum purchase amounts or approved scenarios for using certain licenses. For instance, some agreements could limit usage based on the number of cores in customer hardware or request certain features to be activated in order to use certain server applications. Thus, customers ought to carefully review the agreements before getting the appropriate license terms for their goal.

In addition to product-specific license agreements, Microsoft also provides many programs with additional benefits. These involve education vouchers (Software Assurance), volume discounts (Open Licensing), access to new products (Microsoft Cloud Partner Program), etc. To obtain the best agreement or program that fits their requirements, customers should collaborate with a trusted Microsoft partner or authorized distributor.

Getting help with licensing questions

If you are a software reseller, Microsoft licensing can be a challenging task. However, there are resources available to help you get the answers to any questions you may have. In this section, we will discuss the two primary resources for obtaining assistance with licensing inquiries: the assigned indirect provider or program distributor and Microsoft contacts or internal team of licensing experts. Let’s examine how these resources can assist you in navigating the frequently complicated realm of Microsoft licensing.

Assigned indirect provider or program distributor

Assigned indirect providers are vital for managing and supplying Microsoft’s licensing programs. They act as intermediaries between Microsoft and end-users, helping with the whole licensing process – from purchase to upkeep and compliance.

Advantages include access to databases and tools that let them give more tailored advice to customers, so they choose the right licenses. Agents work closely with clients, understanding their business models and IT systems, to help them get the right licenses.

Plus, they provide extra services such as software integration, product update consultation, and migration paths based on the end-user’s needs. It’s important to find the right indirect provider – contact Microsoft directly, or go through the distributor of a certain program, who have experts in licensing.

Remember, direct liaising with an assigned indirect provider is advantageous. It provides individualized expertise which can be useful for attaining effective licensing solutions – be it for small businesses or huge IT projects.

Microsoft contacts or internal team of licensing experts

Microsoft licensing can be tricky. That’s why it’s helpful to have experts to guide you. Microsoft contacts and their internal team of licensing experts are knowledgeable about the various programs, such as cloud solution provider, enterprise agreement licences, open licensing and volume licensing. They can also provide advice about product-specific license agreements for each program.

These experts will help customers understand their purchasing options. They can help you explore whether buying licenses directly or through partner channels is best for your business.

Authorized license mobility partners find it tough to keep up with the terms and conditions. Microsoft’s dedicated team can help with this. If you need assistance understanding the components of licensing, they are available to help.

Stay informed about licensing with Microsoft contacts and their internal team of experts. They can provide training and information.

General resources for licensing and license training

Navigating the realm of Microsoft licensing can be a daunting task, even for seasoned software resellers. However, Microsoft provides various resources to help make sense of it all. In this section, we’ll explore the options available for licensing and license training, including enrollment in certain programs for streamlined licensing processes.

Enrolment in certain programs

Businesses can get Microsoft’s whole array of licensing and product agreements by enrolling in programs. These eligible programs are:

  • Cloud Solution Provider program
  • Enterprise Agreement licenses
  • Volume Licensing
  • Open Licensing

To join these programs, businesses must go through a specific process. It includes agreeing to terms and conditions. Additionally, businesses require product-specific license agreements for every single program.

Enrolling in programs can provide businesses with advantages. They’re discounts on products and services plus access to training vouchers. Businesses can get help with licensing questions from assigned indirect providers, program distributors, or Microsoft contacts or internal teams of licensing experts.

It’s important to remember that sharing licenses is only allowed in the subscribing country for Action Pack subscribers and competency partners. Nonetheless, a single partner entity can join for a single organization or headquarters, with multiple locations, if they’re part of the same company doing the same business.

Microsoft Commercial Licensing

In the realm of software reselling, it is vital to have a solid grasp of Microsoft’s commercial licensing policies. This section delves into the specifics of Microsoft’s commercial licensing, which includes a streamlined commerce experience, flexible access to Microsoft’s products and services, and options for direct purchases or partnership with authorized vendors. With this knowledge, software resellers can adeptly navigate the Microsoft licensing landscape and offer their clients the most inclusive and cost-effective solutions available.

Delivering unified commerce experience

Microsoft offers unified commerce experience for customers through various licensing programs. These include the Cloud Solution Provider program, the Enterprise Agreement licenses program, Volume Licensing, Open Licensing, and the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement.

Organizations can turn to authorized resellers and distributors for specific licensing info, or contact Microsoft’s internal team of licensing experts with complex queries.

It’s important to understand the terms associated with each program, and product-specific license agreements. Organizations should work with their assigned indirect provider or program distributor before making a decision. Resources available within each licensing program can also help inform decisions regarding business operations.

Flexible access to any Microsoft product or service

Microsoft Commercial Licensing is a program that offers access to a wide range of Microsoft products and services. Customers can purchase from Microsoft or its partners, with a unified experience. This program is tailored for organizations of all sizes, granting access to any Microsoft product or service.

The program provides various licensing models, like the Cloud Solution Provider Program, Enterprise Agreement License, Volume Licensing, Software Assurance training or voucher program, Open Licensing, and OEM license program. Microsoft makes it easy for customers to choose the right licensing model.

Microsoft also offers license mobility through its Software Assurance program. This allows companies to move server-based software licenses from on-premises to shared hardware environments of third-party providers.

To help customers, Microsoft provides resources for licensing and license training. This makes it easier to understand the licensing terms associated with each program and make the right choices.

Eligible providers can offer hosted software services or applications, and license qualified Microsoft products on a monthly basis through the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) for a three-year agreement term. Customers can enjoy flexibility when hosting their application workloads across dedicated infrastructure in private data centers or hybrid scenarios with public cloud providers.

Microsoft Commercial Licensing is a reliable source for Microsoft products and services.

Direct purchase or through partners

When it comes to Microsoft products, businesses have two options: purchase directly from Microsoft or go through an authorized partner.

Direct purchases can be done on their website or with the help of their sales team, and is best for businesses that know what they need.

However, partners offer extra assistance, like help choosing the right products and volume discounts. Moreover, partnering with an approved seller ensures local laws and regulations are followed. Finally, choosing an authorized provider can be cost-effective, help IT budgeting, and ensure compliance.

The Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement gives hosting providers licensing rights to offer Microsoft products and services for 3 years.

Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement

Looking to become an authorized Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) reseller or an Authorized License Mobility Partner, but unsure of where to start? We’ve got you covered. This section provides an overview of the key factors involved in licensing eligible Microsoft products for hosting software services, from licensing rights to a list of authorized SPLA resellers and Mobility Partners.

Licensing eligible Microsoft products for hosting software services

Microsoft offers several programs, such as Enterprise Agreement, Volume Licensing, and Software Assurance Training Programs, for obtaining licenses to host software services. These programs cover eligible software products, like Windows Server Standard/Datacenter, SQL Server Standard/Enterprise, SharePoint Server, Exchange Server, Project, Visio, Visual Studio Professional, and MSDN Platforms. However, Office and Windows 10 are not eligible.

Each product-specific license agreement has different usage rights. Becoming an Authorized SPLA Reseller grants access to additional eligible products, such as Dynamics CRM and Windows Client Access Licenses.

It is important to review the terms and conditions of Microsoft’s licensing agreements. This is because failure to comply can have legal consequences.

License rights provided

Microsoft offers diverse licensing programs. These give clients the right to access any Microsoft product or service. Programs such as the Cloud Solution Provider Program, Microsoft Cloud Partner Program, Enterprise Agreement licenses, Volume Licensing, OEM license program, Software Assurance training or vouchers program, and Open Licensing, let clients purchase licenses directly or with partners.

The Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) is an option for eligible clients. This lets them use Microsoft products for hosting software services for three years. Service Providers can host services and applications for their customers, across countries for competency partners, and within the organization that earns them.

License Mobility through Software Assurance gives customers with volume licensing the right to license server applications on qualified service provider shared hardware environments.

Clients should consider becoming an authorized Mobility Partner to benefit from these licenses. They should discuss this option with an assigned indirect provider or program distributor, as well as Microsoft contacts or an internal team of licensing experts.

Authorized SPLA resellers

To become an authorized SPLA reseller, it’s necessary to possess a valid Microsoft Partner Network ID and enroll in at least one competency program or the Cloud Solution Provider program. Plus, agree to abide by all applicable terms and policies related to the SPLA program.

It’s critical to be judicious when selecting an authorized SPLA reseller. The wrong or unauthorized licensing agreement can result in reduced customer satisfaction, loss of revenue, and even legal consequences.

Microsoft regularly updates the Authorized Mobility Partners list. Service providers can refer to this list when planning to enter into an SPLA agreement with an authorized reseller. We always recommend working closely with these partners to guarantee that all licensing decisions match their business objectives while adhering to all terms and conditions specified in the agreement.

Becoming an Authorized License Mobility Partner

Fancy becoming an Authorized License Mobility Partner? Search no more! Microsoft’s official website has a list of all partners that have met the program’s criteria. Benefits include resources, training programs, and chances to team up with other businesses. Microsoft’s products and knowledge help partners give their customers top-notch service.

But watch out! Joining the program involves more than just signing the SPLA agreement. Microsoft staff assess applicants on things like company size, market positioning, and delivery of premium service. Before you apply, double-check you meet the eligibility requirements and have enough resources.

Authorized Mobility Partners list

The Authorized Mobility Partners list is very important. It helps businesses in many ways. Firstly, it provides a directory of all approved partners who offer license mobility options. Businesses can trust these partners, as they meet certain requirements and certifications.

Secondly, the program makes sure these partners maintain compliance standards. This means businesses can be protected from any licensing or compliance issues. This is especially useful for businesses that may be regulated.

Partnering with an authorized mobility partner has many benefits. Licenses can be moved without buying more. Businesses are also more cost-efficient and can trust their partner is compliant. To streamline licensing agreements and protect your business, explore the Authorized Mobility Partners list.

Sharing licenses for Action Pack subscribers and competency partners

Did you know that Microsoft licenses for software resellers can only be shared within the organization that earns them? In this section, we’ll take a closer look at license sharing for Action Pack subscribers and competency partners. We’ll explore the limitations for sharing licenses within an organization and the enrollment options for single organizations with multiple locations. It is not possible to share licenses across countries. Stick around to learn more about the licensing policies that apply to reselling Microsoft software products.

Sharing licenses only within the subscribing country

When it comes to Microsoft licensing programs, remember that licenses can only be shared within the country of purchase. All types of licensing programs are subject to this rule. To be compliant, companies can enroll in one organization or multiple locations under the same company headquarters. If the locations are part of the same company and operate the same business, they are seen as a single entity.

For licenses to be shared, separate organizations must first enroll in the same licensing program or agreement. However, if competency partners are involved, licenses can be shared across countries – but only if each partner has the same competency designation. Licenses can only be shared within the organization that earned them and not across different businesses.

To adhere to these regulations, it’s helpful to seek outside help from assigned indirect providers, program distributors, Microsoft contacts, or internal teams of license experts. Additionally, enrolling in specific programs may give access to resources and training materials relevant to license sharing and other crucial parts of Microsoft licensing programs.

Sharing licenses across countries for competency partners

Competency partners can share licenses across countries, under certain conditions. This is only for their own organization; a single one, or multiple locations as part of the same company, conducting the same business. To take advantage of this, they must enroll in a country where Microsoft operates legally. All legal requirements must be followed.

Licenses cannot be shared between separate companies. Only those registered under one organization, or with multiple branches operating the same, can benefit from license sharing. If an employee moves to a different branch of the same company, they need individual licensing based on their new location.

To stay compliant and get the most out of license-sharing, you must be aware of local laws and regulations. For further advice, contact Microsoft contacts or internal team specialists.

Licenses can only be shared within the organization that earns them

Organizations must follow Microsoft’s licensing policies when it comes to sharing licenses. They can only be used by the organization that earned them. This policy applies only to those that have enrolled in specific Microsoft Licensing Programs. Sharing licenses across separate organizations is strictly forbidden.

Organizations need to manage their licensing agreements internally, tracking all licenses used in all divisions, departments, subsidiaries and affiliates. These limitations cannot be given away to entities within or outside of the organization; licenses remain the sole property of the organization that earned them. Any sharing outside of the organization is prohibited.

Unable to share licenses across separate organizations

Sharing licenses between different organizations is a big no-no in all Microsoft Licensing Programs, such as the Cloud Solution Provider Program, Volume Licensing, and Enterprise Agreement Licenses. Any licenses gained or purchased must only be used by the organization that earned them, as per the applicable agreements and terms. This means that sharing licenses with another company violates the license agreement.

However, certain programs do allow licensing for providing software services under the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement. It’s important to remember that only competency partners are able to share licenses across different countries.

Before enrolling in any of the licensing programs, it’s vital that you read and understand the terms and conditions. Noncompliance could lead to serious legal consequences, including penalties and imprisonment in some cases.

Therefore, it’s essential to follow the rule of not sharing licenses between separate organizations. By understanding the licensing restrictions and making sure you comply with the licensing terms and policies, you can protect your organization’s operations and reputation.

Enrolling for a single organization, headquarters with multiple locations, or a combination

We have made an informative table to explain enrolling for a single organization, headquarters with multiple locations, or a combination. The table covers the essential columns needed for enrollment.

Organization Structure Guidelines
Single Organization Enrollment is done with one legal entity name.
Headquarters with Multiple Locations The primary location can enroll. Other places can be added under the same agreement and account number. They should use the same legal entity name and business practices.
Combination Enrollment is allowed if there’s a combination of a single organization and headquarters with multiple locations. They must use the same legal entity name and business practices.

Microsoft has guidelines for the enrollment process. Licenses can only be shared in the same country. Different organizations, even if they are connected, cannot share licenses.

However, businesses from different regions that conduct similar activities can form locations viewed as one partner entity. All locations of the same business are treated as one partner entity for license sharing. This unites businesses.

Locations viewed as a single partner entity if part of the same company conducting the same business

Businesses with multiple sites doing the same work may be seen as one partner. This has big effects for Microsoft license, specifically for Action Pack subscribers and competency partners. It is vital to understand the rules and boundaries around license sharing before taking part in such activities.

To explain how places can be thought of as a single entity, the table below shows the rules for license sharing in different conditions:

Situation License Sharing Rules
One org with many places in the same country Licenses can be shared within the org that earns them
One org with many places across different countries (competency partners only) Licenses can be shared between countries for competency partners
Many orgs with different legal entities Licenses cannot be shared across different orgs

It’s important to note that license sharing should only happen in the subscribing country or between competent partner countries. Licenses cannot be shared across different orgs.

Plus, when enrolling for a single org, headquarters with multiple places, or a mix, there are certain rules that have to be followed precisely. By knowing these rules, businesses can make sure they are following the rules and keep away from any legal or economical troubles.

Services Provider License Agreement

If you are a software reseller, the Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) is an essential component of Microsoft Licensing. The SPLA allows licensing eligible Microsoft products on a monthly basis for a three-year term, as well as hosting software services and applications for customers. Additionally, it permits licensing server applications both on-premises and in the cloud on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment for Volume Licensing customers. The SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card provide detailed information about the agreement. Furthermore, License Mobility through Software Assurance enables licensing server applications on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment.

Licensing eligible Microsoft products on monthly basis for three-year agreement term

The SPLA program lets customers license eligible Microsoft products and services each month. This means end-users can use Microsoft products and services, and service providers bill them monthly. It’s ideal for providers who don’t want to spend a lot of money or pay upfront.

SPLA licenses give providers access to the latest versions of Microsoft software. Examples include Windows Server, SQL Server, SharePoint Server, Exchange Server, and Office 365.

The month-to-month structure allows scalability. That means costs can be reduced. There’s no commitment after the current month or after the three-year agreement ends.

To make the most of this program, providers must be authorized SPLA resellers. They must also have all the necessary documentation before signing up.

Hosting software services and applications for customers

Customers can take advantage of the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) program for easy hosting. This program allows customers to license eligible Microsoft products for three-year agreements on a monthly basis. Service providers can license server applications on-premises and in the cloud, with license mobility through Software Assurance. The SPLA program includes a Program Guide and Reference Card to help with compliance. Licenses can only be shared within the organization that earns them. Many organizations don’t use the program due to lack of resources or confusion. Consulting experts like Microsoft contacts or internal teams can simplify license structures and offer competitively priced Microsoft products and services.

Supporting a variety of hosting scenarios

The SPLA program is perfect for service providers who want to offer flexibility to their customers. It allows them to host software services on-premises or in the cloud using qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment. This way, providers can meet customer needs, without worrying about any licensing issues.

The SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card have all the approved hosting scenarios for compliance. Following the license agreement terms is also important to avoid any compliance problems.

The SPLA program has one major benefit: its Revenue Sharing Models. This way, providers can charge customers monthly, which doesn’t only guarantee profitability but also appeals to various customer needs.

Enrollment in the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement can expand a service provider’s business scope without any extra costs.

In summary, the SPLA program supports many hosting scenarios, helps to optimize software utilization, ensures compliance, and maximizes profitability. Get more information with our guide and reference card.

SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card

Microsoft’s SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card are two must-haves for anyone looking to license Microsoft products for hosting software services. They provide accurate info on license rights and authorized resellers, plus a thorough description of the SPLA program and a handy reference for key terms and conditions.

You can license Windows Server, SQL Server, Exchange Server, SharePoint Server, System Center suite, and Dynamics CRM applications. The guide also covers various hosting scenarios, licensing server applications on on-premises and cloud shared hardware environments, and license mobility through Software Assurance. It’s never been simpler to host software services and apps for customers.

To get the best results, review all relevant agreements before making any purchases or using Microsoft products. You can also get valuable insights from assigned indirect providers or program distributors, as well as Microsoft contacts or internal teams of licensing experts.

Make licensing server applications in the cloud and on-premises easier with Microsoft Volume Licensing. Check out the SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card to get started.

Licensing server applications on-premises and in the cloud on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment for Volume Licensing customers

Microsoft offers Volume Licensing customers the option to license server applications either on-premises or in the cloud. Through the License Mobility through Software Assurance program, customers can license Microsoft products on a monthly basis for a 3-year agreement. The program allows customers to choose either on-premise hosting or at a qualified service provider’s data center.

It is important to refer to the SPLA Program Guide and SPLA Reference Card for accurate information. These resources provide details about eligibility requirements and use rights of each product. Microsoft also provides training and certifications for optimized solutions. Both classroom and online training sessions explain Microsoft licenses, support scenarios, pricing models, and more.

Privacy can be ensured by creating separate virtual machines for each customer. The various licensing options and programs offered by Microsoft provide businesses with flexibility and convenience to run their operations efficiently.

License Mobility through Software Assurance for licensing server applications on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment

Microsoft offers License Mobility through Software Assurance. This program enables users to transfer their license rights for server applications to an approved datacenter. Businesses can save money and use resources more productively with hybrid environments or cloud technology.

Software Assurance customers can use their eligible server applications on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware. It helps to get the most out of software investments and provides flexibility. Although it covers certain server applications, licensing rules may differ for each product.

Volume Licensing customers can benefit from this program by using their server application licenses in the cloud without extra fees. It’s best to consult a licensing expert or a Microsoft representative before using License Mobility through Software Assurance.

Five Facts About Microsoft Licensing for Software Resellers: An Overview:

  • ✅ Microsoft offers licensing programs and agreements to support customers with digital transformation. (Source: Learn Microsoft)
  • ✅ Microsoft offers several licensing programs like Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program, Microsoft Cloud Partner Program program, Volume Licensing (VL), Open Licensing, Enterprise Agreement (EA) licenses, OEM license program, Software Assurance training or vouchers program. (Source: Guide to Licensing Resources for Microsoft Partners)
  • ✅ Partners can get help with licensing questions from their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor, or reach out to their Microsoft contacts or use an internal team of licensing experts. (Source: Guide to Licensing Resources for Microsoft Partners)
  • ✅ The Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) allows service providers and Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to license eligible Microsoft products monthly for a three-year agreement term. Partners need to be an Authorized License Mobility Partner to host application server licenses using License Mobility through Software Assurance. (Source: SPLA Program)
  • ✅ Action Pack subscribers and competency partners can share licenses within their organization and across countries. But, licenses cannot be shared across separate organizations that aren’t part of the same company conducting the same business. Partners whose authorization addenda have been accepted and processed by Microsoft will be placed on the Authorized Mobility Partners list. (Source: Microsoft Partnership Licensing Agreements)

FAQs about Microsoft Licensing For Software Resellers: An Overview

Guide to Licensing Resources for Microsoft Partners

This article is a comprehensive guide for Microsoft partners to understand licensing programs and agreements. It provides resources to help Microsoft partners answer questions about licensing.

Key Points:

– Microsoft partners might be involved in one or more licensing programs, channels, or agreements.

– Programs in the Partner Center include Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program and Microsoft Cloud Partner Program.

– Other licensing programs include Enterprise Agreement (EA) licenses, Volume Licensing (VL), OEM license program, Software Assurance training or vouchers program, and Open Licensing.

– Each program has agreements and terms associated with it, and products might have extra, product-specific license agreements.

– Partners can get help with licensing questions from their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor.

– Partners can also reach out to their Microsoft contacts or use an internal team of licensing experts.

– General resources about licensing and license training are available for partners to learn more about licensing programs.

– Partners might need to be enrolled in certain programs before they can access all of the resources.

Microsoft offers licensing to support customers with digital transformation. Microsoft commercial licensing is responsible for how customers acquire technology. The goal is to deliver a unified commerce experience for customers. Customers have flexible access to any Microsoft product or service and can buy directly from Microsoft, through partners, or on their own.

Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA):

The Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) allows service providers and Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to license eligible Microsoft products on a monthly basis for a three-year agreement term to host software services and applications for customers.

The SPLA supports a variety of hosting scenarios to provide highly customized and robust solutions to a wide set of customers. Volume Licensing customers can license their server applications on-premises and in the cloud on a qualified service provider’s shared hardware environment for specific applications.

Sharing of Licenses:

Licenses can be shared for Action Pack subscribers and competency partners. Action Pack subscribers can only share licenses within the subscribing country, while competency partners can share licenses across countries but cannot exceed the per country or worldwide maximum license cap.

Licenses can only be shared within the organization that earns them, between the headquarters location and any associated locations. Partners cannot share licenses across separate organizations. Partner organizations with multiple office locations can enroll as a single organization, headquarters with multiple locations, or a combination of both.

Microsoft Cloud Partner Program views locations as a single partner entity if they are part of the same company conducting the same business.

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