How does Microsoft volume licensing work?

When it comes to equipping your organization with Microsoft software, purchasing individual licenses simply isn’t practical. Knowing how to buy Microsoft Volume Licensing simplifies the process, offering a cost-effective and scalable way to deploy software across multiple devices within a single organization.

Volume Licensing not only helps reduce costs but also provides greater flexibility, enhanced IT management, and licensing terms tailored to your operational needs. Whether you’re managing a small business or a large enterprise, it’s a smart way to align your software investment with your long-term goals.

Before deciding to buy Microsoft Volume Licensing into your environment, it’s essential to evaluate three key factors—ideally with the guidance of a trusted third-party provider who can help you make the most of your investment.

1. Size and type of the organization: This refers to the number of employees, business model, and size of IT infrastructure.
2. The software products: Different products are priced and bundled differently.
3. The use-case scenario: How will the products be used, for how long, and by whom

Types of Microsoft Volume Licensing

Licenses can be either perpetual or non-perpetual.

• Perpetual licenses are everlasting and valid if the software is being used according to the license agreement and its Software License Terms.
• Subscription Licenses are temporary and provide the right to use a particular licensed product as described in the license agreement. It is available only through certain comprehensive Microsoft Volume Licensing programs or available for certain products such as Microsoft Online Services, Microsoft Desktop Optimization Pack, and Windows Virtual Desktop Access.

Which Microsoft Volume Licensing is better for my business?

For businesses with up to 250 users

Open Value

Single agreement that offers a 3-year term and allows you to spread your payments over the term of the agreement.

It allows you to add Microsoft licensed products throughout the agreement term with annualized pricing, making it easier for you to manage your cash flow.

For businesses with more than 250 users

Select License

Ideal for large businesses that have mixed product and purchasing requirements. With this option you receive a volume price for each group of products you need (applications, systems or servers) based on a three-year term.

Enterprise Agreement

Allows businesses to standardize their desktops with licensed Microsoft products at a discounted price based on a three-year term.

This option is available as a perpetual or subscription agreement.

By working with a Cloud Solution Provider, you’ll have a dedicated expert directly supporting your company’s needs. The 365 Cloud Store provides unique personalized solutions to Microsoft services and offers.

Let us help you save time and money by assessing your business, identifying your needs, and creating a plan to reach your goals. Be more efficient and agile with a CSP partner by your side.

We’re a Microsoft CSP proudly based in Austin, Texas, and we work exclusively with businesses across the U.S.. By focusing on American organizations, we’re able to provide support that fits your time zone, billing that meets your standards, and expert guidance that truly understands your environment. We don’t do one-size-fits-all, we build real partnerships to make Microsoft licensing simpler and smarter for U.S. companies.

If you want to reduce your licensing complexity and buy smart with the 365 Cloud Store, do not hesitate to contact us!