Microsoft Products Available in Volume Licensing:
- Windows OS: Licensed for enterprise desktops.
- Microsoft 365: Includes Office apps, Teams, SharePoint, and more.
- Windows Server: Licenses for data centers and server environments.
- SQL Server: Available for database management through volume programs.
- Enterprise Mobility + Security (EMS): Security solutions and mobile management tools.
What is Microsoft Volume Licensing?
Volume Licensing is a flexible and cost-efficient solution that allows organizations to purchase multiple licenses for Microsoft products rather than buying them individually.
This approach is particularly advantageous for businesses, educational institutions, government entities, and large enterprises that need to distribute software across many users or devices.
Volume Licensing reduces ownership costs and simplifies management, enabling organizations to maintain compliance and control across the deployment lifecycle.
Microsoft Products Available in Volume Licensing
Microsoft offers various software products under its Volume Licensing program, from operating systems and productivity tools to server and cloud-based solutions.
Below is a detailed look at the major product categories available through Volume Licensing:
Windows Operating System
- Windows 11 and 10 are available through Volume Licensing, ideal for enterprises requiring the latest operating system features and security updates for multiple users.
- Volume Licensing allows access to enterprise-specific features such as BitLocker, Windows Autopilot, and Windows Virtual Desktop.
Example: A business with 100 employees can buy a Windows 11 Enterprise Volume License, allowing easy installation across all devices with a single license agreement.
Key Benefits:
- Cost-effective upgrades: Only pay for upgrading a specific number of devices instead of buying individual retail licenses.
- Enhanced Security: Access to features like Device Guard and AppLocker, which are often excluded from retail versions.
Microsoft 365 Suite
Microsoft 365 (formerly known as Office 365) is a productivity suite that includes well-known apps like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, as well as cloud services such as Teams and OneDrive. Volume Licensing for Microsoft 365 is specifically tailored to meet the needs of larger teams.
Examples of Licensing Options:
- Microsoft 365 E3: Combines core productivity apps with advanced security and compliance tools.
- Microsoft 365 Apps for Enterprise: This version focuses on providing full-featured versions of Office apps without the additional security and compliance features.
Key Benefits:
- Flexibility: License different versions of Microsoft 365 depending on the user’s role within the organization.
- Centralized Management: Administrators can easily deploy and manage updates through the Microsoft Admin Center, simplifying IT management.
Server Products
Microsoft’s server products, including Windows Server, SQL Server, and Exchange Server, are available through volume licensing for organizations managing their own IT infrastructure.
- Windows Server: Available in different versions such as Standard, Datacenter, and Essentials, Windows Server is fundamental for businesses that require reliable server management, data storage, and identity management.
Example: A mid-sized company that hosts its own email and file storage can opt for a Windows Server 2022 Standard license to support 200 users.
- SQL Server: Provides database management capabilities that support data storage, analysis, and retrieval across various organizational operations.
Example: Organizations requiring sophisticated data analytics can use SQL Server Enterprise licenses to accommodate high workloads.
Key Benefits:
- Scalability: As your organization grows, server products obtained through Volume Licensing can be upgraded or expanded seamlessly.
- Virtualization Rights: The Windows Server Datacenter includes unlimited virtualization rights, ideal for creating multiple virtual machines (VMs).
Microsoft Azure Services
Volume Licensing can also be used for Microsoft Azure, providing businesses with discounted access to Microsoft’s cloud computing services, including virtual machines, databases, networking, and storage solutions.
- Hybrid Use Benefit (AHUB): Azure Hybrid Use Benefit offers significant discounts on Azure VMs for organizations already holding on-premises Windows Server licenses.
Example: A software development company can use Azure to test applications by leveraging discounted virtual machines, ensuring significant savings on cloud costs.
Key Benefits:
- Cost Management: Pay only for what you use, with discounts based on existing licenses.
- Scalability: Organizations can increase or decrease Azure resources as needed, making it a flexible option for workload management.
Other Microsoft Products
- SharePoint and Project: These products are popular among enterprises for managing documentation and project timelines. They are available for collaboration, content management, and project tracking.
- System Center: Designed for managing servers, desktops, and applications across an organization. System Center is often included in Volume Licensing agreements, allowing IT admins to deploy patches and updates effectively.
- Example: A hospital may use System Center Configuration Manager (SCCM) to consistently update all medical devices and administrative systems, improving security.
Key Benefits:
- Better Collaboration: SharePoint enhances document collaboration, while Project helps keep timelines and budgets on track.
- Centralized IT Control: The System Center allows unified control over infrastructure, boosting IT efficiency.
Licensing Models for Different Organizations
Microsoft’s Volume Licensing comes with different purchasing models depending on the size and type of organization, each designed to meet specific needs. These models include:
1. Open License
- This is suitable for small—to medium-sized organizations. It offers a flexible pay-as-you-go model, where organizations only pay for the licenses they require.
- Example: A startup needing 15 Microsoft 365 licenses can purchase through the Open License program without long-term commitments.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable: Cost-effective for small teams without purchasing many licenses upfront.
- Scalable: Can be increased as the business grows.
2. Enterprise Agreement (EA)
- Designed for large enterprises, the Enterprise Agreement provides discounts for bulk license purchases and includes rights to the latest software updates.
- Example: A company with 5000 users can opt for an Enterprise Agreement, ensuring that all users have up-to-date software while benefiting from substantial volume discounts.
Key Benefits:
- Software Assurance: Includes upgrade rights, technical support, and training, allowing enterprises to stay current.
- Cost Savings: Discounts are provided based on the scale of licenses purchased.
FAQ About Microsoft Volume Licensing
What is Microsoft Volume Licensing?
Microsoft Volume Licensing allows businesses to purchase multiple software licenses for Microsoft products at a discounted rate.
How do I qualify for Microsoft Volume Licensing?
Organizations qualify based on the number of users or devices, starting with five or more licenses.
What is the difference between retail and volume licenses?
Retail licenses are for individual users, while volume licenses are for multiple users, offering greater flexibility and scalability.
Can I upgrade the software with Microsoft Volume Licensing?
Volume licensing often includes upgrade options, allowing businesses to access newer software versions.
Is technical support included with volume licensing?
Depending on the specific licensing terms, many volume licensing agreements offer access to Microsoft’s technical support.
What are Microsoft Software Assurance benefits?
Software Assurance offers services like product upgrades, training, and deployment planning.
Which Microsoft 365 plans are available in volume licensing?
Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise plans include Teams, OneDrive, and advanced security features.
Can I transfer Microsoft Volume Licenses to another company?
Volume licenses can generally be reassigned within the organization, but transferring outside is restricted under most agreements.
How does licensing work for remote employees?
Microsoft Volume Licensing supports remote workers by providing them with access to necessary software through cloud services or VPNs.
What is an Open License Program?
The Open License Program is a simple, cost-effective way for businesses to purchase Microsoft software licenses with flexible terms.
Are there volume discounts for small businesses?
Yes, Microsoft offers volume discounts to small businesses, starting with a minimum purchase of five licenses.
What licensing options are available for educational institutions?
Microsoft offers special pricing and licensing options for schools and universities under its Academic Volume Licensing.
Can I deploy Microsoft products across multiple locations with volume licensing?
Microsoft Volume Licensing allows deployment across various locations, making it ideal for distributed teams.
How is licensing managed within the organization?
Volume Licensing Service Center (VLSC) helps organizations manage, deploy, and track software licenses.
What happens if I exceed the number of licensed users?
Organizations must purchase additional licenses if the number of users exceeds their current agreement to remain compliant.
