Microsoft Volume Licensing Agreement Types: Which One is Right for Your Business?
Microsoft is one of the largest and most influential companies in the technology industry. With products that range from operating systems to productivity suites, Microsoft has become a staple in the business world. For businesses that need to use Microsoft products on a large scale, purchasing individual licenses can be expensive and complicated. This is where Microsoft Volume Licensing comes in.
Microsoft Volume Licensing is a program that allows businesses to purchase licenses for multiple Microsoft products at a discounted rate. This program offers numerous benefits, including time and cost savings, flexibility, and simplified license management. But before you dive into purchasing a Volume Licensing agreement, you need to understand the different types available.
In this article, we’ll outline the three main types of Microsoft Volume Licensing agreements and help you determine which one is right for your business.
1. Enterprise Agreement (EA)
Enterprise Agreements are the most comprehensive type of Volume Licensing agreement available from Microsoft. They are designed for businesses with 500 or more devices or users and offer the flexibility to customize the program to meet the specific needs of your organization.
Under an EA, you can purchase licenses for Microsoft products at a significant discount compared to individual purchases. The program also includes software assurance, which gives you access to the latest software updates, training, and support services.
Another advantage of the EA is its simplified management. Instead of dealing with multiple contracts for different Microsoft products, you can manage all your licenses under a single agreement.
2. Select Plus Agreement
The Select Plus agreement is similar to the Enterprise Agreement but is designed for businesses that need to purchase licenses for fewer devices or users. With Select Plus, you can purchase licenses for at least 250 devices or users.
This agreement also includes software assurance and discounted pricing. However, it does not offer the same level of customization as the Enterprise Agreement. Instead, you’ll select from a pre-defined list of Microsoft products, which can be added or removed over time as needed.
3. Open License Agreement
The Open License agreement is the most flexible option for businesses that need to purchase licenses for fewer than 500 devices or users. This agreement offers volume discounts and allows you to purchase licenses as needed, making it a good option for businesses that are just starting out or that have fluctuating licensing needs.
The Open License agreement does not include software assurance, so you’ll need to purchase it separately if you want access to the latest software updates and support services.
Which Volume Licensing Agreement is Right for You?
Choosing the right Volume Licensing Agreement for your business depends on your specific needs and goals. Here are some things to consider when deciding:
– Number of devices or users: If you have more than 500 devices or users, the Enterprise Agreement is the best option. If you have fewer than 500, the Select Plus or Open License agreement may be a better fit.
– Customization: If you need a high level of customization, the Enterprise Agreement is the way to go. If you’re willing to work with pre-defined product lists, the Select Plus or Open License agreement may be sufficient.
– Software Assurance: If you need access to the latest software updates and support services, the Enterprise Agreement and Select Plus agreement both include software assurance. The Open License agreement does not, so you’ll need to purchase it separately.
In conclusion, Microsoft Volume Licensing can provide significant benefits for businesses that use Microsoft products on a large scale. By understanding the different types of Volume Licensing agreements available, you can choose the one that best meets your needs and helps you save time and money.