Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Licensing Guide: Everything You Need to Know
For businesses that require a lot of software licenses, managing them can be a headache. That’s where the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA) comes in. This licensing program is designed to simplify the process of acquiring Microsoft software licenses and managing them across a large organization.
If you’re considering the Microsoft EA, here’s everything you need to know about it.
What is the Microsoft EA?
The Microsoft EA is a volume licensing program that allows businesses to purchase Microsoft software licenses in bulk. It’s designed for organizations with 500 or more users or devices that need to use multiple Microsoft software products.
With an EA, businesses sign a contract with Microsoft that covers a three-year period, during which they have access to Microsoft software licenses. The contract includes a pricing structure that can save businesses money compared to purchasing individual licenses.
What software products are covered by the Microsoft EA?
The Microsoft EA covers a wide range of Microsoft software products, including:
– Windows operating systems
– Office Suite
– SharePoint
– Exchange Server
– SQL Server
– Skype for Business
– Dynamics 365
Note that not all Microsoft software products are covered by the EA. For example, Microsoft’s cloud-based software, such as Office 365 and Azure, requires a different licensing program.
What are the benefits of the Microsoft EA?
The Microsoft EA offers several benefits to businesses that need to manage multiple Microsoft software licenses, including:
1. Simplified license management: With the EA, businesses can manage all of their Microsoft software licenses through a single contract. This makes it easier to keep track of licenses, renewals, and support.
2. Pricing advantages: The EA offers pricing advantages over purchasing individual licenses. The more licenses a business purchases through the EA, the greater the discount it can receive.
3. Flexibility: The EA allows businesses to customize their software purchases based on their needs. They can choose which products to include in their contract and how many licenses they need for each.
4. Support: Businesses that purchase software licenses through the EA receive access to Microsoft’s Premier Support, which provides technical support and guidance.
What are the licensing options under the Microsoft EA?
There are two licensing options available under the Microsoft EA:
1. Enterprise Subscription Agreement (EAS): The EAS is a subscription-based licensing option that allows businesses to access Microsoft software products for a set period of time. With an EAS, businesses receive automatic updates and can choose to renew their subscription or switch to another licensing option at the end of the contract period.
2. Enterprise Agreement (EA): The EA is a traditional licensing option that allows businesses to purchase perpetual licenses for Microsoft software products. These licenses do not expire and can be used indefinitely as long as they are properly maintained.
How do businesses get started with the Microsoft EA?
To get started with the Microsoft EA, businesses should contact a Microsoft licensing specialist or reseller. They will work with the business to determine which products to include in the contract and how many licenses they need. Once the contract is signed, the business can begin using the licensed software products.
Conclusion
The Microsoft Enterprise Agreement offers a simple and cost-effective way for businesses to manage multiple Microsoft software licenses. With a three-year contract and pricing advantages, it’s an excellent option for businesses that need to purchase software licenses in bulk. If you’re considering the Microsoft EA, speak with a licensing specialist or reseller to learn more about how it can benefit your organization.