Articles on Licensing

From Floppy Disks to Cloud Subscriptions
From dongles and perpetual EULAs to AI-driven subscriptions and blockchain enforcement — software licensing became a $850B+ force reshaping enterprise IT.

Microsoft Server Licenses in VMware and Hyper-V
When virtualising Microsoft server software, one question often arises: “How do I handle licensing?” Especially when you’re using virtual machine mobility.

Truth about Windows Server licensing with core packs
Windows Server Core licensing is not difficult. You need to know a few simple rules. But how the licenses are sold is confusing and results in bad advice.

Microsoft Licensing crash course
You are busy. And you need to get your head around Microsoft Licensing quickly. We got you covered: basics, concepts, fundamentals, models, and a little more.

What is a software licence? How Microsoft licensing works
Would you like to learn how Microsoft Licensing works? Start from the concept of a licence itself. Can you “buy” a licence? Why doesn’t licensing make sense?

You've bought Windows E3 for your company. But have you?
A story of how I almost ruined a perfect family weekend. And a little bit about licensing Windows E3.

Why SAM Tools Fail You in Microsoft Audits
SAM tools don’t protect you in Microsoft audits: mismatched methodologies, incomplete discovery, expired SA, and no expert validation. Audit defence requires ongoing discipline and expertise, not green dashboards.

Do AI agents dream of Microsoft 365 E3 – Unattended Licence?
AI agents challenge Microsoft’s traditional per-user licensing. Per-transaction and consumption-based models may replace M365 licences, reshaping how enterprises pay for Office file operations.

Microsoft's Licensing Evolution Part II: From Human Seats to Agent Revenue—The New Frontier
Microsoft moves from licensing human users to licensing digital agents, with Entra Agent ID, Copilot orchestration, and embedded knowledge creating a new revenue model where ARPAA joins ARPU in EA negotiations.

Microsoft EA vs. MCA-E: A Strategic Licensing Comparison for 2025 and Beyond
Microsoft is shifting away from traditional Enterprise Agreements. This guide compares EA vs. MCA‑E, highlights risks, and outlines strategic actions for 2025 and beyond.

SQL Server with Azure Arc vs. SPLA
Microsoft Azure Arc is changing the game for SQL Server licensing, offering service providers new ways to meet their clients’ needs. With Azure Arc, clients can connect any SQL Server to Azure and take advantage of pay-as-you-go licensing for greater flexibility and cost savings.

System Center Licensing: Do You Need a Server License?
This is the most frequently asked question about Microsoft System Center licensing and the biggest source of confusion. Fortunately, there is a simple answer.