Key Takeaway:
- Microsoft offers various licensing programs for software vendors, including the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) Program, Microsoft Cloud Partner Program, Enterprise Agreement (EA) Licenses, Volume Licensing (VL), OEM License Program, Software Assurance training or vouchers program, and Open Licensing. It is crucial for Microsoft partners to understand the agreements and terms associated with each program and the product-specific license agreements.
- Partners should contact their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor for detailed licensing questions or customer quotes. If they do not have a designated provider, they can find one through the Find a Partner tool or contact Microsoft for assistance.
- For on-premises software customers who want to transition to the cloud, Microsoft offers From SA USLs at a discounted price with cloud-relevant Software Assurance benefits, such as Deployment Planning Services, Home Use Program, online end user training courses, and additional support incidents. Customers must have and maintain Software Assurance on their qualifying on-premises solution to purchase From SA USLs. These licenses may only be purchased at contract renewal and on the same agreement or enrollment as the qualifying licenses.
Introduction to Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors
Microsoft Licensing is an important part of software vendor operations. But, it can be complex. Open License, Enterprise Agreement, and Service Provider License Agreement are some of the different programs. Business needs vary, so there are Per User, Per Device, and Per Core models. It’s essential to understand licensing requirements and options to provide custom solutions.
For services like Azure and Office 365, Microsoft has specific SaaS-based licensing requirements. Vendors must know them to stay compliant. Non-compliance can cause legal issues and harm a brand’s reputation. One software vendor found out the hard way. They lost money and reputation.
To sum up, understand licensing requirements and options. Choose the right program and model. Provide custom solutions and comply with Microsoft’s terms. It’s important for software vendors. This supports operations and builds a brand’s reputation.
Overview of Licensing Programs Available for Microsoft Partners
Microsoft supplies various licensing programs for its partners. These are designed to suit partners of all sizes based on their customer base, products and specializations. The licensing plans offer flexibility in cost, licensing structure and scope.
The table below gives an overview of the different licensing programs available to Microsoft partners. It includes the program name, partner eligibility, customer eligibility, licensing options and other details. These programs include Microsoft Partner Network, Enterprise Agreement, Cloud Solution Provider and ISV Royalty.
| Program Name | Partner Eligibility | Customer Eligibility | Licensing Option | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Partner Network | Open to members of Microsoft Partner Network | Not applicable | Subscription-based | Offers access to a range of software, resources and support services for partners |
| Enterprise Agreement | Open to partners with larger customer bases | Companies with 500 or more devices | Volume licensing | Provides flexibility and cost savings for large organizations that use multiple Microsoft products |
| Cloud Solution Provider | Open to partners offering cloud-based solutions | Not applicable | Subscription-based | Allows partners to offer Microsoft cloud services and other value-added services to their customers |
| ISV Royalty | Open to independent software vendors (ISVs) | Not applicable | Perpetual licensing | Provides ISVs with a way to license Microsoft products and deliver customized solutions to their customers |
For a comprehensive guide on Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors, please visit the Microsoft website.
Microsoft also provides extra programs for specific partner needs. These are the Microsoft Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) for hosting providers and Cloud Solution Provider program for partners taking a service provider approach. These programs offer different licensing structures, cost models and support options.
For the best use of these programs, partners should think about their requirements and align them with the features and benefits of the right program. Additionally, partners should use Microsoft’s training and certification programs to boost their skills and stand out from their competitors. In this way, partners can develop value-added services around Microsoft’s technologies which will ensure long-term success and profitability.
Understanding Agreements and Terms Associated with Each Licensing Program
Software vendors must comprehend the agreements and terms for each of Microsoft’s licensing programs. Making informed decisions requires one to evaluate the benefits of each program. Microsoft offers Open License, Cloud Solution Provider, and Enterprise Agreement. Each is designed for different businesses.
Open License is perfect for small and medium businesses that need licenses now. Cloud Solution Provider gives more flexible billing and subscription management. Enterprise Agreement is designed for larger organizations with subscription-based licensing.
It’s important to remember that Microsoft’s programs have different levels of support, discounts, and benefits. For example, Enterprise Agreement provides premier support. Open License gives discounts on bigger purchases. Knowing the advantages of each program is key for making wise decisions.
To sum up, software vendors must look at the terms and agreements of each licensing program. They should consider the expenses and benefits, as well as the discounts and support. This will help them pick a program that meets their business needs.
Product-Specific License Agreements
Microsoft Software Licensing includes agreements designed just for particular software products. These Product-Specific License Agreements provide details like licensing metrics, pricing, deployment and support policies. They also feature compliance and audit requirements that must be followed by software vendors and their end-users.
These agreements offer flexibility and customization to meet specific needs. But they’re not a replacement for the software vendors’ own license agreements. Instead, they should just supplement them.
Failing to utilize Product-Specific License Agreements could miss out on legal protections and benefits from Microsoft. This could lead to potential legal disputes in the future. It’s essential to understand these agreements to use Microsoft software to its fullest.
Contacting Your Assigned Indirect Provider or Program Distributor for Detailed Licensing Questions or Customer Quotes
Need detailed licensing info? Got customer quote questions? Reach out to your assigned Indirect Provider or Program Distributor. They are your best bet for understanding licensing options. Plus, they can offer tailored solutions according to your business needs.
Your Indirect Provider or Program Distributor knows tons about Microsoft licensing. Product usage rights, terms and conditions, complexities – they know it all. So, contact them for help when selecting the right licensing option for your business.
Go to your Indirect Provider or Program Distributor for any Microsoft licensing queries. They can answer your questions on communicating licensing allowances with customers, Microsoft licensing programs, and other general concerns. Get professional and efficient help – don’t hesitate to contact them for detailed licensing questions or customer quotes.
Finding a Partner Tool or Contacting Microsoft for Assistance if You do not Have a Designated Provider
Searching for a partner tool or Microsoft licensing help? Plenty of choices exist. Head to the Microsoft website to find a partner tool or get in touch with Microsoft’s support team for help. It’s simple and easy!
Visit Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors: A Comprehensive Guide and use the partner tool. Filter your search based on location, technical abilities, and expertise. Once you find the right partner, start the licensing process. No designated provider? Microsoft’s support team is always ready to help.
Remember: Microsoft provides many licensing solutions, tailored to software vendors’ needs. Select the most appropriate option based on your business size and nature, and the software or services used.
In short, it’s easy to find a partner or get licensing help from Microsoft. Use their partner tool or contact their support team. Take advantage of their extensive range of licensing solutions.
General Resources and License Training Available for Microsoft Partners
Microsoft’s here to help its partners! With resources and license training programs, they create an environment of growth. Benefits include the Microsoft Partner Network, which supplies resources for business, technical abilities, and customer acquisition. Plus, Partner University offers product training and certifications. Competency programs improve partners’ skills, so they stand out from the competition. And, SAM (Software Asset Management) provides training and resources to offer customers comprehensive software licensing solutions.
SAM’s a specialized program, helping partners manage licenses, reduce compliance risks, and give cost-effective solutions. Partners can use Microsoft’s resources to broaden their capabilities and services. Keeping up-to-date with their skills is key. It can lead to long-term customer relationships. So, Microsoft’s got you covered if you’re a Partner looking for resources and license training.
Requirements for Enrollment in Certain Programs to Access All Resources
Software vendors must meet certain criteria to get access to all of Microsoft’s licensing programs. These requirements change depending on the program. They could involve reaching competency goals, getting a particular membership level, and following program guidelines.
The reference data offers info on which requirements must be met for each program. It has a table which shows the programs and their entry criteria. For example, some programs require taking certain exams and having a certain number of customer references.
Vendors should check Microsoft’s documentation, as some programs have complex or combined criteria.
Pro Tip: Software vendors should understand and strive to fulfill each program’s requirements to successfully enroll in Microsoft’s licensing programs and access all resources. This will help them get the most benefits and reduce risks of non-compliance.
From SA USLs for On-Premises Software Customers who Want to Transition to the Cloud
More businesses are now using cloud-based services, so customers who previously used on-premises software are looking to switch. The Reference Data has tips on From SA USLs, which can help these customers with their cloud transition.
From SA USLs give customers the licensing they need for both their on-premises software and cloud-based services. Microsoft Licensing is described in the Reference Data, so software vendors can use it to transition to the cloud.
The Reference Data also explains the benefits of Software Assurance for customers moving to the cloud. This keeps them up-to-date with the latest technologies and updates. Plus, they can use the Azure Hybrid Benefit when transitioning.
Software vendors can use the guidance in the Reference Data to provide their customers with a smooth transition to the cloud.
Notes Format Summary of Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors
Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors requires knowledge of the Notes Formats. These formats provide guidance on software licensing, billing, and license management.
The Notes Format Summary of Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors is summarized in the below table:
| Notes Format | Description | License Model | Bundling |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Packaged Product (FPP) | Retails copies of software that can be bought from a physical store or online. | Perpetual | Not allowed |
| Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) | Software pre-installed on devices by the manufacturer, cannot be transferred. | Perpetual | Not allowed |
| Volume Licensing (VL) | Software licensed in bulk, at a lower price. Includes several options depending on the number of devices. | Perpetual or Subscription | Allowed |
| Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) | Software provided as a service, billed monthly. | Subscription | Allowed |
Remember that different Notes Formats have different licensing models, restrictions, and allowances for bundling licenses. Microsoft also provides a Product Terms document to outline licensing programs, product use rights, and processes.
It is essential that Software Vendors understand the Notes Formats to license their software correctly and comply with Microsoft’s licensing policies. The Notes Format Summary of Microsoft Licensing for Software Vendors is a valuable guide.
Guide to Licensing Resources for Microsoft Partners:
- ✅ Microsoft partners may be involved in various licensing programs, channels, or agreements, including 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 may have product-specific license agreements. (Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/partner-center/support-resources-licensing)
- ✅ Partners should contact their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor for more detailed licensing questions or customer quotes. (Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/partner-center/support-resources-licensing)
- ✅ There are resources and license training available for partners, but enrollment in certain programs may be required to access all resources. (Source: https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/partner-center/support-resources-licensing)
- ✅ From SA USLs offer cloud-relevant Software Assurance benefits, such as Deployment Planning Services, Home Use Program, online end-user training courses, and additional support incidents. Customers must have and maintain Software Assurance on their qualifying on-premises solution to purchase From SA USLs. These licenses may only be purchased at contract renewal and on the same agreement or enrollment as the qualifying licenses. (Source: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/licensing/product-licensing/microsoft-365)
FAQs about Microsoft Licensing For Software Vendors: A Comprehensive Guide
Guide to Licensing Resources for Microsoft Partners
This article provides resources to help Microsoft partners answer questions about licensing. Microsoft partners may be involved in various licensing programs, channels, or agreements. Programs in the Partner Center include the 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 may have product-specific license agreements.
Partners can also contact their licensing program’s assigned indirect provider or program distributor for more detailed questions or customer quotes. If a partner does not have a designated provider, they can find one through the Find a Partner tool or contact Microsoft for assistance. General resources and license training are available for partners, but enrollment in certain programs may be required to access all resources.
How can customers transition from on-premises software to the cloud?
Customers who want to transition from on-premises software to the cloud can purchase From SA USLs, which are offered at a discounted price and recognize the customer’s investment in Microsoft solutions. From SA USLs offer cloud-relevant Software Assurance benefits, such as Deployment Planning Services, Home Use Program, online end-user training courses, and additional support incidents. Customers must have and maintain Software Assurance on their qualifying on-premises solution to purchase From SA USLs and may only be purchased at contract renewal and on the same agreement or enrollment as the qualifying licenses.
What is the Microsoft Cloud Partner Program?
The Microsoft Cloud Partner Program is a program for partners who want to transition their business to the cloud and build cloud solutions that leverage Microsoft Azure and other cloud technologies. The program provides benefits such as training, support, and incentives to help partners grow their cloud business and expand their customer reach.
How can a partner become a provider in the CSP program?
Partners who want to become a provider in the CSP program can apply through the Partner Center and undergo a vetting process. Once approved, providers can resell Microsoft cloud services such as Office 365, Dynamics 365, and Azure to customers and manage the customer relationship, including provisioning, billing, and support.
What is included in the Cloud SA benefits for From SA USLs?
From SA USLs are for on-premises software customers who want to transition to the cloud. They recognize the customer’s investment in Microsoft solutions and are offered at a discounted price. From SA USLs offer cloud-relevant Software Assurance benefits, such as Deployment Planning Services, Home Use Program, online end-user training courses, and additional support incidents. Customers must have and maintain Software Assurance on their qualifying on-premises solution to purchase From SA USLs. These licenses may only be purchased at contract renewal and on the same agreement or enrollment as the qualifying licenses.