In a dynamic realm of software licenses, Microsoft has recently announced significant changes to its licensing structure, particularly concerning “From Software Assurance” licenses, commonly known as “From SA.” Introduced eight years ago, these licenses provided customers with the opportunity to deploy Microsoft User Subscription Licenses (USL) at a discounted rate during the transition from on-premises to the cloud.
Key changes summarized:
- Discontinuation of new orders for From SA licenses:
Starting in the calendar year 2024, customers will no longer be able to place additional or new orders for From SA licenses. Existing From SA licenses, however, remain unaffected and can be used and renewed.
- Adjustments to From SA license terms:
Significant adjustments to the From SA license terms will be implemented for Microsoft 365 and its standalone products on February 1, 2024, and for Dynamics 365 products on April 1, 2024.
- Impact on Microsoft 365:
- No new orders will be accepted for From SA subscription licenses for Microsoft 365 and its standalone products.
- Renewal of existing From SA licenses is still possible, up to the number of corresponding expiring From SA USLs.
- Impact on Dynamics 365:
- Similar to Microsoft 365, new From SA subscription licenses for Dynamics 365 won’t be available.
- A promotional migration offer for the Enterprise Agreement will be introduced by April 1, 2024, to support customers transitioning from on-premises to the cloud.
- Migration of On-Premises licenses:
- Licenses purchased before the modification dates can be renewed in equal quantities.
- Full USL licenses can be ordered when existing licenses expire to migrate on-premises licenses.
- For Microsoft 365, a provision will be introduced to allow Office Professional Plus usage rights under certain circumstances for customers migrating to the Full USL after February 1, 2024.
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Stay tuned for more updates, as Microsoft continues to shape the future of its licensing structure.