Microsoft programs. Microsoft Licensing - Volume Licenses

InSpe provides Microsoft volume licenses to organizations with 5 to 500 computers.

Corporate licenses- personal, non-transferable, non-exclusive. Issued by Microsoft individually for each client.
Supplied in the form of a sealed envelope containing a document protected from forgery indicating the name of the company holding the license, a list of licensed products and other details. The delivery time for electronic keys is 2-5 days, for paper licenses - 7-10 days.

VLSC (Volume Licensing Service Center)
From a practical point of view, access to the VLSC (Volume Licensing Service Center) website is of great value. When purchasing Microsoft corporate licenses, the client receives access through this website to product distributions and their keys. Access to the site usually opens within 2-3 days after purchase. Access to the VLSC site is initially granted to the person responsible for licensing (for example, a system administrator or lawyer), who can later grant access to other employees in the organization.

With Corporate licenses, you can only buy the currently current version of the product (for example, Windows 10, Windows Server 2012, SharePoint 2013), but a corporate license usually includes the Downgrade right, i.e. the ability to use previous versions of the product.
Distributions and keys to previous versions are available on VLSC.

Types of corporate licensing

Open License (OLP)- simple purchase of licenses for specific products into ownership :
- You can buy as many licenses as you need, but not less than 5 pieces. in the first purchase (later from 1 piece)
- You can only buy a license for a specific version of the product (SA is offered as an option)

Open Value (OV)- purchase of licenses into ownership with payment in installments for 3 years, in equal payments:
- The price includes SA, but in the future it is not necessary to buy SA (i.e. in the first 3 years SA is paid, then it is an option)
- Start-up costs are lower than OLP
- There are discounts “for standardization”, i.e. when purchasing licenses for the entire PC fleet - prices are lower

Open Value Subscription (OVS)- rental of licenses with annual payment :
- Minimum start-up costs
- The right to always use the latest versions of the software (i.e. SA is always included in the price)
- You can increase the number of licenses, reduce or refuse licenses depending on your needs
- Newly purchased computers during the year will also be considered licensed
- It is possible to purchase licenses for permanent use after 3 years of lease
- “Standardization” is required, i.e. licensing of all PCs (Windows or CAL or Office)

What is SA
SA - Software Assurance. By purchasing SA, the client gets the opportunity to use all new versions of the product released during the subscription period. As well as a number of additional benefits, such as the right to use it on a personal home computer, the right to use the software in a virtual environment, the right to transfer licenses to a private or public cloud, etc.
SA is sold as a subscription, i.e. for a limited period (2-3 years), which can be constantly extended.

Other abbreviations used
SNGL- Single Language, i.e. one language. The client can use any language version of the product.
NL- No Level - discount level “without discount”. When purchasing a large number of licenses, Microsoft provides a "Level C" discount
CAL- Client Access License - client access license.

Software protected from unauthorized copying by copyright laws. Copyright laws provide for the retention of several exclusive rights by the author (publisher) of software, one of which is the right to make copies of the software.

Purchasing a software product is acquiring a license (right) to use it. A license is required for each program used. Boxed and OEM licenses are accompanied by an “End User License Agreement” (EULA - End User License Agreement), which sets out the terms of the license. It can be supplied both in paper and electronic form along with the program distribution. This agreement does not require a signature procedure between the parties.

By installing the program on your device, you automatically agree to the terms of the EULA. Volume license terms are reflected in the Product Use Rights (PUR) document, which is updated quarterly.

PUR texts for various corporate schemes can be downloaded from the Microsoft website: http://www.microsoft.com/Rus/Licensing/General/Examples/Default.mspx.

There are three main types of purchasing licenses for Microsoft products:

The boxed license includes the disc in a colorful box, a user manual and a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) sticker.
An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM license) allows the system builder to install the product when building a PC or other device. Only the system builder can install such software, not the end user.
Enterprise programs are the most flexible and cost-effective way for an organization to purchase Microsoft software. Corporate schemes provide significant discounts and allow you to take into account the size of the company and other features of your business.

Licensing rights generally differ for different product categories:

Personal operating systems, desktop applications, games, multimedia programs are licensed according to the following principle - one license per computer. It doesn't matter how many individuals use the computer.
Development tools are licensed on a one-license per individual basis.
Server products generally require two schemes software licensing: Server/client licensing (server license for installation on the server plus CALs for devices or users accessing server services) or processor licensing (processor license for each processor on the server).

Detailed information about the basics of licensing Microsoft products can be found at: .

All about software licensing in questions and answers

Choosing a license for new computers

What's the cheapest way to buy Windows for a new computer?

There are only two types of licenses that are offered for installation on a new computer. This is the OEM version that the assembly company pre-installs on a new computer and ships with it. The boxed (FPP) version is offered to end customers at retail - in comparison, the OEM version is more economical.

About what features pre-installed OS licensing Is it better to know before purchasing?

Some Microsoft programs may come with your computer. Such versions of products are called pre-installed, or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) versions. The end user, whether an individual or an organization, can only purchase the OEM version with a new computer. Most often, Windows operating systems are sold in this format, but some desktop applications and server operating systems can also be supplied this way.

The main feature of OEM licenses is that they are “tied” to the computer on which they were installed and cannot be transferred to another. By "computer" we mean a fully assembled system, including at least the central processing unit, motherboard, hard drive, power supply, and case. When replacing any component other than the motherboard, the right to use the OEM license is retained. When transferring a computer with OEM products installed, the owner must transfer with it a complete set of OEM licenses.

Read more in the document “Description of the OEM licensing program” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/oem/default.aspx).

Purchasing licenses for already used software

How can I purchase a license for the Windows operating system I already have installed?

For organizations that intend to purchase 5 or more copies of the Windows OS, the Get Genuine Solution option is a solution for licensing the installed Windows XP Professional operating system under the Microsoft Open License corporate licensing program. You can find out more about this option by following the link (), as well as in the document “Description of the GGS Licensing Program” ().

For private users, the Get Genuine Kit solution is recommended. It allows you to install the product<поверх>OS being used. This does not completely delete user data from the hard drive. Moreover, reinstalling Windows from purchased licensed media is not required (although it is recommended). Optionally, the user can only use the product key update tool.

More information about the Get Genuine Kit can be found here (http://www.microsoft.com/Oem/Russian/Licensing/GetGenuine/Default.mspx) or in the document “GGK Licensing Program Description” ().

What are the features of the boxed licensing option?

Boxed versions (FPP - Full Packaged Product) are intended for organizations or private users and are available for retail sale, online stores and Microsoft partners.

Read more in the document “Description of the FPP licensing program” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/fpp/default.aspx).

Can I purchase an OEM license for already installed software?

The new system builder agreement, released in May 2008, states that a computer with an OEM version installed can only be used for sale to third parties. This means that the end user cannot currently purchase OEM versions for their own needs, even if they pre-install themselves.

To purchase licenses for Windows already installed on your computer, we recommend using more accessible and convenient license options - Get Genuine Solution and Get Genuine Kit.

After purchasing a license for already installed products, is reinstallation required?

After purchasing licenses for Microsoft products already installed on your computer, we recommend reinstalling them from licensed media. However, you are not required to do this and can use the initial installation if for some reason you prefer this option.

Microsoft recommends using officially supplied media and keys (including through online sources) to install and reinstall software products. This will give you access to technical support and regular updates. At the same time, the mere presence or use of the original media is not required to confirm the legality of the software. Microsoft excludes any liability and makes no warranty for failures or other defects resulting from the use of non-genuine media for installation.

Read more in the document “Product installation and reinstallation issues” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/install/default.aspx).

Business offers

What corporate programs are offered? software licensing?

Microsoft Open License. Designed for organizations of any size and type that need to purchase 5 or more perpetual licenses of Microsoft products on a one-time payment basis.
Microsoft Open Value. Enables small and medium-sized businesses to purchase 5 or more licenses for any Microsoft products with a three-year installment plan, with the licenses going into perpetual use after payment of the full price.
Microsoft Open Value Subscription provides licensing on a subscription or rental basis: during the 3 years of the agreement, the client pays annually for the right to use the software, and then must either renew the agreement for the same period, or purchase perpetual licenses, or completely remove the used software.
Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA) Suitable for organizations with more than 250 computers who prefer to pay for licenses in installments over 3 years. After paying the full price, the client receives licenses for permanent use.
Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription (EAS)- a program designed for organizations with a fleet of 250 computers or more, with payment for a three-year license subscription. At the end of the agreement, the customer must either renew the agreement, purchase perpetual licenses, or completely remove all software installed under the agreement.

What is the difference between corporate licenses and other options? software licensing?

For organizations and companies of any size, volume licensing programs are the best option. Unlike OEM versions, which are purchased only with a new PC, or boxed (FPP) licenses, which are better suited for private users, enterprise programs allow you to license almost any software for any number of computers.

Microsoft offers a wide range of programs to suit different types and sizes of companies. But they all differ in some features, including the following:

Agreements are nominal: the name of the user organization is recorded in the relevant agreements and documents.
Under one agreement, any product can be licensed for any number of PCs - and even all computers in the company.

It is important to remember that Windows is available through Volume Licensing programs as upgrade licenses only. Therefore, to purchase them you need to have the appropriate desktop OS. An exception is Get Genuine Solution, a licensing solution for already installed Windows XP Professional, which is supplied under the Open License program.

Read more in the document “Description of Corporate Licensing Programs” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/corporate/default.aspx).

How do I license software to affiliates and subsidiaries of my company?

Volume licensing programs allow you to purchase licenses for branches and affiliates under a single enterprise agreement.

In all cases, supporting documents are provided by Microsoft only to the contracting organization. Subsequent distribution of licenses to affiliates and subsidiaries occurs without Microsoft's involvement.

Read more in the document “Licensing of affiliates and client branches” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/affiliate/default.aspx).

Is it possible to buy licenses for counterfeit copies of Windows XP Professional that our company is already using?

Get Genuine Solution is a solution that is recommended by Microsoft for purchasing licenses for Windows XP Professional, which was illegally installed in a company on 5 or more computers. Get Genuine Solution implies a transition to using corporate Microsoft Open Licenses. However, the maximum order quantity is not limited.

Read more in the document “Description of the GGS Licensing Program” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/ggs/default.aspx).

Where can I find current discounts and special offers?

The easiest way to do this is by visiting the special page () on the Microsoft website. By taking advantage of the opportunities presented here, you can significantly save on software purchases.

How to choose the best software licensing option and product version?

You can independently study the materials presented on the website (http://www.microsoft.com/rus/licensing/default.aspx) dedicated to licensing. If you have any questions, use the help of qualified Microsoft specialists by calling the hotline: 8-800-200-8001 . A certified Microsoft partner will also provide professional assistance with product selection and preparation of purchase specifications, through whom you can purchase the necessary software.

Our company has acquired licenses for Microsoft products - at what point can we legally use them?

For most Volume Licensing programs, Microsoft Ireland Operations Limited (MIOL) supplies paper agreements and documentation. Since documents have to be delivered from Ireland, the client often receives them with a delay. However, for all programs, with the exception of the Microsoft Open License, the purchased software can be used before receiving paper documents. The Open License client receives the right to use the software from the moment he receives a paper agreement by mail, reads and agrees to its terms.

Read more in the document “Issues of entry into force of corporate agreements” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/agreements/default.aspx).

What percentage of the fleet should I license so that Microsoft does not have claims against me?

In fact, any complaints from Microsoft are unlikely to arise. We do not initiate inspections of companies and, as a rule, do not participate in them. We are talking about requirements from law enforcement agencies that monitor compliance with the law. And from the point of view of the law, licensing must be complete: any unlicensed product installed on a computer is a direct violation of it. In other words, licenses must cover 100% of the programs. If we talk about Microsoft’s opinion on this topic, of course, the company strives for the most honest relationships with its customers and users. For our part, we always try to act this way - and we expect the same from you. To make sure that your company does not have pirated software installed, use the license management technology, which is described in the “How to use” section (http://microsoft4you.ru/findanswer/use/).

Licenses for education

Are there discounts on licenses for educational and academic institutions?

There are two academic licensing programs for Microsoft products offered in Russia.

Academic Open License. A flexible and effective program that provides the opportunity to purchase permanent licenses at very competitive prices.
Academic and School Agreement. This licensing program gives the customer the right to use Microsoft subscription products on all computers in their organization.

Please note that both programs only offer an upgrade version for Windows OS. The original product must be purchased as a boxed product (FPP) or OEM license.

Who can take advantage of preferential academic programs?

Microsoft Academic Licensing programs are designed specifically for educational institutions and academic organizations. Prices for corresponding Microsoft products have been significantly reduced. However, only the following organizations can take advantage of this advantageous offer:

Educational institutions, including vocational educational institutions, which have received a license for educational activities from the competent government regulatory body in the country where the main office is located.
Non-profit educational institutions and organizations that carry out educational activities as their main activity, but are not academic or do not have a state license.
Local, regional or national executive authorities that manage one or more licensed educational institutions.
Public libraries that provide basic general library services free of charge.
State museums that are established on a permanent basis, have professional staff and regularly exhibit to the public.
Charitable organizations that carry out non-profit activities to help those in need, promote education, improve social and public welfare, promote culture, or protect the environment.

Read more in the document “Description of Academic Licensing Programs” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/academic/default.aspx).

Are there good perpetual licenses for academic institutions?

The Academic Open License program is available to all academic organizations, which can purchase any number of licenses for any Microsoft product available under this licensing program. Licenses purchased under the Academic Open License are perpetual and can be used for all computers in the academic organization.

Read more in the document “Description of Academic Licensing Programs” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/academic/default.aspx).

Is it profitable to purchase products through the Academic and School Agreement subscription?

The Academic and School Agreement program is available only to primary, secondary and higher educational institutions, as well as government authorities of educational institutions. Essentially it is a software subscription. Within its framework, the client receives the right to use a number of Microsoft products on all of their computers throughout the entire subscription period, which is for 1 or 3 years.

Payment is made in the form of annual payments, and the price includes automatic access to new product versions and many other benefits. Under this program, an educational institution can license programs for free on teachers' home computers, and also offer students a subscription at special prices.

Read more in the document “Description of Academic Licensing Programs” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/academic/default.aspx).

Is it true that there is a special offer for technical faculties?

Microsoft Developer Network Academic Alliance (MSDN AA) is a program through which some higher and secondary educational institutions can use the latest Microsoft products and technologies at minimal financial cost.

The program is aimed at individual faculties and departments, not at educational institutions and organizations as a whole, and is intended for educational and research purposes only. It is available to four-year colleges and universities, two-year colleges, technical schools and high schools licensed to provide technical or science education, as well as communities of students and staff at such institutions.

As part of the MSDN AA program, a subscriber can install a wide range of Microsoft products on any number of computers. In addition, faculty, staff, and students can install the software on their personal computers.

Read more in the document “Description of the MSDN AA Licensing Program” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/msdnaa/default.aspx).

What about licensing of secondary schools?

On October 18, 2007, the Russian government issued decree No. 1447-r, according to which all state educational institutions that implement programs of primary, basic and secondary (complete) general education are supplied with a set of licensed Microsoft software.

School representatives can find more detailed information on the website of the Federal Education Agency (http://www.ed.gov.ru/).

Microsoft Product Licenses

What are the "purchase options" for Microsoft products?

“Purchase Options” describe the types of licenses that give users the right to use Microsoft products. There are three main types of licenses:

Boxed (FPP) the license includes the disc in a colorful box, a user manual and a certificate of authenticity (COA) sticker.
OEM license involves installation of the product by a system builder on a new computer or other device. Only the installer, but not the end user, can install the program under an OEM license.
Volume Licensing Programs- the most flexible and profitable way for companies to purchase Microsoft products. Corporate schemes provide significant discounts and allow you to take into account the size of the company and other features of your business.

Read more in the document “Microsoft Software Licensing Basics” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/about/default.aspx).

How are Microsoft products licensed?

Licensing rules vary by purchase option and are contained in accompanying documents. However, there are general principles that generally apply to different Microsoft product groups:

Personal operating systems, desktop applications, games, multimedia programs are licensed on a “one license per computer” basis. It does not matter how many individuals use the computer.
Development Tools are licensed on a one-license-per-user basis.
Server Products There are 2 licensing schemes: “server-client” (a license for installation on the server, as well as several client licenses), or “per processor” (a processor license for each server processor).

Detailed information about the basics of licensing Microsoft products can be found at http://www.microsoft.com/Rus/Licensing/General/WhatIs.mspx.

What license options are available for Windows OS?

OEM versions, intended for use by assembly companies for installation on new computers or for upgrading existing ones.
Boxed versions (FPP) are offered at retail directly to end consumers.
Get Genuine Solution- an option for purchasing licenses for a counterfeit Windows XP Professional OS already installed on a computer under the Microsoft Open License corporate licensing program. The minimum order size is 5 licenses. This unique offer will only be available for a limited time;
Get Genuine Kit- an option for purchasing licenses for a counterfeit Windows XP Professional operating system already installed on a computer.

Other Windows volume licenses for organizations that require at least 5 licenses only allow you to purchase upgrade versions. Full versions of the product are supplied only in the 4 types presented above.

Read more in the document “How to properly license Windows OS” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/desktop/default.aspx).

How is Microsoft Office licensed?

Microsoft desktop applications are licensed per device. This means that the user purchases a license separately for each computer or other device on which the application is used or that accesses it through a terminal server.

Purchase options:

Corporate licenses optimal for organizations that require at least 5 licenses of any kind. In this case, the license can be transferred from one computer to another (provided that more copies will not be installed than permitted by the terms of the agreement). You are permitted to install an unlimited number of copies of Microsoft Office or any previous version of Microsoft Office on each licensed device. It is also permitted to use previous versions of the software product and versions in other languages.
OEM versions are intended for use by system builders for installation on new computers. End users can only purchase them with a computer. In this case, it is prohibited to transfer a license from one computer to another, or to switch to a previous or another language version of the product.
Boxed versions (FPP) are offered at retail. You can use upgrade versions to migrate from previous versions of Microsoft Office to the latest version. In this case, the license can be transferred from one computer to another (if no more copies are installed than permitted by the terms of the agreement). In addition, there is no option to downgrade to a previous or different language version of the software product.

Read more in the document “How to properly license Microsoft Office in an organization” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/company/default.aspx).

What are the licensing options for Microsoft server products?

Depending on the purpose, there are server operating systems (Windows Server), database servers (SQL Server), mail servers (Exchange Server), and so on. Depending on the type of product, one of the standard licensing models is applied.

The most common model is the “Server License and CAL” model, in which a network based on Microsoft server products requires at least one server license and more Client Access Licenses (CALs).

Purchase options:

OEM versions, intended for use by assembly companies for installation on new computers or for upgrading existing ones. A limited range of server products are supplied through this channel. The delivery includes 5 or 25 client licenses; additional ones can be purchased in packages of 5 pieces, only together with new equipment.
Boxed versions (FPP) are offered at retail. Typically they include 5 client licenses; less commonly, shipments with 10 and 25 licenses are found. Additional CALs can be purchased as MLP packages.
MLP (Microsoft License Pack)- unnamed license. This is an analogue of the boxed version, but can only be purchased in addition to the “main” boxed version. So this option is not suitable for obtaining server licenses, and is only used for client licenses.
Corporate licenses, intended for organizations that require at least 5 licenses. This is the most profitable option for purchasing software separately from computers.

Read more in the document “How to license server products” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/server/default.aspx).

How to purchase a license for an already installed unlicensed Windows OS?

To license a previously installed counterfeit, pirated, otherwise illegally obtained, or unlicensed copy of Windows XP Professional on already used PCs, Microsoft recommends using the Get Genuine Solution offer. This solution is optimal for companies and organizations that intend to purchase 5 or more copies of Windows OS. You can find out more about this option at the link http://www.microsoft.com/rus/partner/licensing/WindowsLicensing/GGS.mspx and in the document “Description of the GGS Licensing Program” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/ ggs/default.aspx).

Private users are offered Get Genuine Kit - “Version for licensing the installed operating system.” This license can be installed “on top” of the Windows operating system in use, with user data stored on hard drives. Detailed information about this feature can be found here and in the document “GGK Licensing Program Description” (http://microsoft4you.ru/documents/ggk/default.aspx).

Each software manufacturer develops its own product licensing scheme, which can be difficult to understand on your own. Licensing of Microsoft products also has its own characteristics. We tried to briefly analyze the main points.

There are three main ways to buy Microsoft software:

Boxed license (FPP);

Pre-installed license (OEM);

Volume licensing programs (OLP, OV).

Boxed license (FPP)

The most common boxed version of Microsoft products among private users is called FPP - Full Packaged Product.

By purchasing Microsoft licenses under the FPP program, you receive everything you need to install and use the product: a distribution kit with the software product, a license agreement, a certificate of authenticity, and for earlier versions of products - a registration card and printed documentation.

Confirmation of the user's license rights is the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) affixed to the box. It is also recommended to save the packaging, information media and documents confirming the purchase.

Pre-installed license (OEM)

Microsoft software can also be purchased as a pre-installed version along with the hardware. This type of license is called OEM - Original Equipment Manufacturer. Such licenses are intended only for equipment assemblers.

OEM versions have technology packaging, which, depending on the product and delivery option, may contain 1 or 3 separate OEM software licenses. A distinctive feature of OEM licenses is that they are “tied” to the computer on which they were originally installed and cannot be transferred to another PC.

The user can confirm license rights using a certificate of authenticity stuck on the PC case. In addition, it is recommended to save the packaging, information media and proof of purchase.

Volume Licensing Programs

Volume licensing is the most cost-effective way to buy Microsoft software for businesses. It includes the following schemes: OLP, OLP+SA, OV, provides significant discounts and allows you to take into account the size and other features of your company. Let's consider
each of the schemes.

OLP - Open License Program

The Open License program is intended for companies that need to purchase 5 or more licenses of one or more Microsoft software products. By purchasing Microsoft licenses under this program, you receive a significant discount. Over the next two years, you can use the received corporate discount.

OLP licenses give the right to:

using previous versions of software products (using a downgrade);

using a different language version of the software if its cost does not exceed the cost of the purchased program;

transferring a license to another PC;

installing a second copy of the product on a laptop (for desktop applications).

Confirmation of license rights is the license agreement (VLSC). Since 2013, Microsoft has been moving to electronic licenses for Open License agreements. Until March 10, 2013, you receive both an electronic and paper version of the license, and from March 10, 2013 - only an electronic one.

OLP+SA - Open License Program + Software Assurance

Software Assurance is a Microsoft support program that allows you to use any new versions of products released during your license agreement.

The combination of the Open License program with Software Assurance will allow you to more effectively plan costs for the purchase and implementation of software, staff training and technical support. This program includes advice and assistance to your organization in planning and preparing for the successful deployment of new software, free training opportunities
employees, unlimited technical support and access to
IT information resource TechNet.

Software licensing is a means of protecting intellectual property from unauthorized copying. Copyright laws provide for the retention of several exclusive rights by the author (publisher) of software, one of which is the right to make copies of the software.

When a customer purchases software, they are given a license to use the purchased software. When purchasing, the client enters into an end user license agreement (EULA - End User License Agreement), which lists the buyer's rights (for example, the ability to transfer to another PC, the right to use previous versions). An EULA is required when purchasing products shipped with new computers (OEM) or separately at retail (out of the box). The EULA is most often distributed electronically and is displayed when the product is first launched.

Licensing rights generally differ for different product categories:

Personal operating systems, desktop applications, games, and multimedia programs are licensed on the basis of one license per computer. It doesn't matter how many individuals use the computer.
Development tools are licensed on the basis of one license for one individual.
Server products generally offer two licensing schemes: server/client licensing (a server license for installation on the server plus CALs for devices or users accessing the server's services) or per-processor licensing (a processor license for each processor on the server).

Ways to purchase licenses for Microsoft products:

Boxed license (FPP). FPP - Full Package Product - includes disc in box, user manual, Certificate of Authenticity (COA) sticker. Purchased by the user in a retail network.
OEM license(Original Equipment Manufacturer) - a license for software to be sold along with new computer equipment. Such software is usually pre-installed by the system builder.
Volume Licensing Programs- intended for organizations. Corporate schemes provide significant discounts and allow you to take into account the size of the company and other features of the client’s business.

Typically, the license agreement states that the rights to use the software can be transferred once to another person on an ongoing basis, provided that the entire product is transferred (including all previous versions of the product if new versions were purchased as upgrades). However, the new user of the product must accept the terms of the EULA, otherwise the license cannot be transferred. Upon transfer of rights, the former user of the product must remove the product from their computer. All products purchased as OEM versions, as well as operating systems purchased through volume licensing programs, can only be transferred along with the hardware on which they were installed.

If an organization plans to use software in outsourcing mode, that is, not to purchase it itself, but to rent it from service providers, it needs to contact a supplier that has a special agreement with Microsoft - Service Provider License Agreement. Such a supplier is Softline.

Licensing programs for commercial organizations

Open License

Designed for organizations that need to purchase multiple copies (licenses) of one or more Microsoft software products. Already when purchasing 5 licenses, the client receives a significant discount compared to the cost of purchasing the same products in the form of a box. Within two years after placing the first order, the client will be able to use the received corporate discount when placing subsequent orders of any number of licenses.

The Open License agreement is valid for 2 years. The following types of licenses are available under the Open License program:

License - a license for a specific (language and serial) version of the product.
Software Assurance (SA)- the right to transition to the next versions of the product that will be released during the validity period of the Open License agreement.
License & Software Assurance (LicSAPk) - combined position.
Upgrade (UPG) - a license for upgrading to the latest version of a software product.
Upgrade & Software Assurance (UpgrdSAPk) is a bundled position that entitles you to the latest versions of Microsoft software products that will be released during the Software Assurance agreement.

Software Assurance can only be purchased:

Simultaneously with the acquisition of a license (L).
As an extension of the previous SA license.
Within 90 days from the date of purchase of the current boxed or OEM version of the product.

Open Value

Microsoft Open Value is a program for purchasing software in installments for small and medium-sized businesses. The advantage of the program is that the company can purchase permanent (perpetual) licenses for the latest versions of Microsoft software with payment in equal installments over three years of the agreement (however, there is also the possibility of paying the full cost of the licenses at a time). The program is available to customers who want to purchase 5 or more licenses of any product, and is especially beneficial to customers who are willing to license core (“base”) products for all desktop PCs in the organization.

Open Value Subscription- software rental program for small and medium-sized businesses. If a company has a limited budget for purchasing software, Microsoft offers the most profitable method of software licensing in such circumstances - leasing. Software rental, or subscription, allows you to obtain a flexible license agreement at minimal cost, which makes it possible to annually pay only for those licenses that your business needs. The agreement gives the right to use the latest versions of the software, increasing the number of licenses, reducing it, or completely abandoning licenses.

For detailed information about the benefits and features of the Open Value licensing program, see the Microsoft website: http://www.microsoft.com/rus/licensing/volume/programs/ov/Default.aspx, Open Value Subscription -http://www.microsoft .com/rus/licensing/volume/programs/ovs/default.aspx .

Enterprise Agreement

Microsoft Enterprise Agreement ( E.A.) and Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription ( EAS) - volume licensing programs designed for organizations with 250 or more computers that are ready to choose the Microsoft platform as a corporate standard. Under the Enterprise Agreement and Enterprise Agreement Subscription agreements, an organization licenses core Microsoft products for all PCs used, and payment is made in the form of annual payments.

Basic products purchased under the Enterprise Agreement and Enterprise Agreement Subscription include:

Microsoft Windows Pro Upgrade;
Microsoft Windows Pro Upgrade with MDOP;
Microsoft Office Professional Plus and/or Office Enterprise;
A set of client licenses for accessing Microsoft servers (Core CAL Suite or Enterprise CAL Suite).

The Enterprise Agreement provides the client with a license for perpetual use, while the Enterprise Agreement Subscription is a subscription to use the software (the license period is limited).

In a situation where an organization has 5 or more PCs running unlicensed Windows operating systems, which creates risks of system failures, data theft or loss, as well as legal risks due to the use of pirated software, it is recommended to purchase a solution to license the installed Windows operating system ( Get Genuine Windows Agreement, GGWA). GGWA is a solution for licensing an unlicensed copy of a desktop operating system previously installed on existing PCs for corporate users who need to purchase 5 or more Windows OS licenses. The Get Genuine Windows Agreement is offered under the Microsoft Open License volume licensing program.

Detailed information on licensing of individual Microsoft products is presented on the website pages

Academic Open License- a program that provides the opportunity to purchase permanent licenses for Microsoft software at significantly lower prices than prices for commercial software or academic versions of boxed products.

The program is intended for a wide range of preferential categories of participants who purchase licenses for use on 5 or more PCs. You can take advantage of its benefits:

Public and private higher educational institutions, educational institutions of secondary and secondary specialized education, advanced training courses and institutes, educational centers that have licenses to conduct educational activities issued by the Ministry of General and Vocational Education or other authorized government body.
Administrative bodies governing educational institutions operating at the regional, regional and state levels.
Research institutions that are part of the National Academy of Sciences
Public libraries.
Museums.
Charity organisations.

The Academic Open program is the most cost-effective licensing program for non-educational categories of benefit institutions (such as museums, libraries, etc.).

School Agreement

School Agreement is intended only for primary, secondary and higher educational institutions, as well as state governing bodies of educational institutions. The School Agreement is a software subscription that entitles you to use a number of products (including any subsequent or prior versions thereof) for the duration of the subscription. Payment is made in annual payments and includes automatic access to new product releases and many other benefits that come with Software Assurance. An important advantage of a subscription is the ability for an educational institution to license software products for free on teachers' home computers for work purposes (in this case, payment may be required upon receipt and distribution of software media), as well as to subscribe for use of the software on students' personal computers by special prices.

Enrollment for Education Solutions (EES).

Important! The listed licensing programs for academic organizations do not provide the opportunity to purchase a full version of the Windows operating system (only the Upgrade version of Windows is available for them).

It is recommended that full versions of the Windows desktop operating system for new computers be purchased as OEM versions (that is, pre-installed on new computers).

It is recommended to purchase basic versions of Windows desktop OS for existing computers as part of the program Get Genuine Windows Agreement for Academic (GGWA-A). GGWA-A is a solution for legalizing Windows OS in educational institutions, allowing you to purchase a basic license for a desktop operating system and thereby resolve situations related to counterfeit software, insufficient or missing software licenses, as well as pirated versions of software.

Enrollment for Education Solutions (EES)- a licensing program that allows educational institutions to purchase licenses for their entire PC fleet under a single subscription agreement. This program allows licensing based on an annual count of the number of employees, provides the right to purchase any number of licenses for additional products and simplified asset management.

Licensing programs for government organizations

Currently, one of the priorities of government authorities of the Russian Federation is to improve the quality of services provided by the state.

Microsoft, one of the recognized leaders in personal computer (“PC”) software, has a wide range of employee software products that enable employees to be productive on their PCs, smartphones, and the Internet.

Microsoft offers a wide range of licensing options for government and municipal organizations. Depending on software needs, internal funding procedures and acquisition methods, one-time licenses may be used ( Open License Government), purchased in installments ( Open Value Government) or by subscription ( Open Value Government Subscription). Each of these options has its own distinctive features and features, which our sales managers will advise you about.

We also draw your attention to the fact that only by purchasing Microsoft products through volume licensing programs, you get the opportunity to:

Use previous versions of software products.
Use a single installation key and the ability to restore the license.
Avoid storing boxes containing software products.
Softline specialists are always ready to help if difficulties arise when choosing a Microsoft product or licensing scheme.

IN Everything you need to know about Microsoft OLP volume licenses

Volume Licensing programs are the preferred way for organizations to purchase Microsoft software licenses. Corporate schemes provide significant discounts compared to retail prices and take into account the size of the company and other business features. The most popular Microsoft corporate software licensing program in Russia is the Open License Program (OLP).

Brief description of the program
Is the disk included in the package?
License validity period
License delivery time
OLP license types
Language selection
Features of Windows licenses
Prices and discounts
Examples of OLP licenses
What to do with OLP licenses, how to get keys and distributions?

Brief description of the program

The Open License program is intended only for organizations and individual entrepreneurs, it is not available to individuals. The first order must contain at least 5 licenses. Within two years after placing the first order, the buyer can use the received corporate discount and place orders of any volume, including for 1 license.

Some buyers believe that the limit of 5 licenses is set by the seller and can be persuaded to a smaller number. In fact, the seller does not have ready-made OLP licenses at its disposal. They are printed by Microsoft on special forms with several degrees of protection. The process of producing licenses is controlled by a computer program, the input of which is a file with data received from the buyer. Thus, the number of licenses is controlled automatically and cannot be bypassed.

What are OLP licenses?

Microsoft OLP are personalized licenses, that is, they are issued to a specific user (legal entity or individual entrepreneur) and cannot be used by anyone else.

The user receives a document - a license certificate containing:

user license agreement;
numbers required for registration on a special Microsoft website;
information about the user (company name or full name of an individual entrepreneur, TIN, legal address);
list of purchased licenses and their quantity.

The license certificate is supplied in a sealed branded envelope.

After placing an Open License order with Microsoft, the user is sent an automatic email from the Microsoft website with a link to license details on the Microsoft VLSC website. The license certificate can be viewed electronically and printed on the VLSC website.

What information is needed to order OLP licenses?

To obtain a license, the customer must provide Microsoft with the following information:

Name of the organization.
TIN of the organization.
Legal address of the organization (full, including index).
First and last name of the contact person.
E-mail of the license administrator (e-mail address through which access to keys and distributions on the Microsoft website will be allowed).
Phone number of the organization or contact person.

Can an OLP license be transferred to another legal entity?

Licenses may only be transferred to an affiliate or a non-affiliated third party due to:

for licenses purchased from October 1, 2006 to December 7, 2009 – by merger, sale of assets or merger of an affiliate or divisions;
for licenses purchased after December 7, 2009 - by merger of enterprises or transfer of ownership of your enterprise.

Microsoft makes the final decision on whether licenses can be transferred. Instructions for transferring Open Licenses are contained in the document Open License Transfer Procedure .

Is the disc included with the OLP?

Storage media (disks) are not included in OLP; they are sold separately, in addition to licenses. Purchasing media is usually not necessary, since program distributions are available for download from the VLSC website.

Validity period of OLP licenses

OLP licenses are perpetual. When a license is issued, a two-year Open License agreement begins to apply, during which the user can place additional orders for licenses. After this agreement expires, purchased licenses will continue to be in effect.

OLP license delivery time

License certificates are printed in Ireland. The delivery time for the license to the office in Moscow is 5-10 days from the moment the order is placed.

OLP license types

License – a full license for a specific (language and order) version of a software product.
Software Assurance (SA) – the right to upgrade to subsequent versions of the product that will be released during the term of the Open License agreement.
License & Software Assurance (LicSAPk) – combined position (full license + right to upgrade to future versions of the product).
Upgrade (UPG) – upgrade license (applies only to Windows 7 Professional).
Upgrade & Software Assurance (UpgrdSAPk) is a combined item (upgrade license + upgrade right) that also entitles you to use Windows 7 Enterprise (applies only to Windows 7 Professional).

Language selection

OLP offers 2 main options for choosing the program interface language:

RUS (Russian);
SNGL (Single).

The Single license allows you to use either Russian or English (more precisely, any of the languages available for this product) to choose from during installation; the Russian license allows you to use only Russian.

Using previous software versions

Open Licenses can be purchased only for current versions of programs, but they give the right to use previous versions of selected software editions.

For example, if you have an Office Standard 2010 license, you can use Office Standard 2003 and Office Standard 2007. A Windows 7 Professional license gives you the right to use not only previous versions of this product, but also Windows 95 or Windows 98.

Features of Windows OLP licenses

Initially, only a license to update the Windows operating system (Upgrade) could be purchased from OLP. Licenses for the full version were sold with computers (OEM) or in boxed form. However, due to the growing interest of users in legal software, the need arose to issue a special license “for legalization” - Get Genuine Windows Agreement (GGWA).

Get Genuine Windows Agreement – a license for legalizing desktop operating systems on existing computers. GGWA includes a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) sticker for each PC. GGWA licenses are non-refundable.

Each PC licensed through the GGWA must be accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity (COA).
Transferring the license to another PC is prohibited.
Transfer of licenses is possible only in accordance with the terms of the Open License agreement.
Software Assurance may be purchased within 90 days from the date of license purchase.
It is possible to purchase GGWA licenses for affiliates under one agreement.
Downgrade is possible to previous OS editions, including Windows XP Pro (and up to Windows 95).

Prices and discounts

OLP has two price levels:

Price level NL – minimum 5 licenses for any products.
Price level C – minimum 500 points in a specific product category.

All products are divided into three categories: “Systems”, “Applications”, “Servers”. Each product is assigned a weighting factor - a “point” (for example, 1 license for Office “weighs” two points). The order volume in points is calculated separately for each product group.

In effect, this means that upgrading to Level C becomes available when you order 250 licenses of a product (for example, Office). The discount compared to NL is about 2%.

The discount level achieved upon placing the initial order remains with the user for two years under the Microsoft Open License agreement. For Level C, the discount is valid within the product category. It is important to note that it is not the price that is fixed, but only the discount level.

Examples of OLP licenses

WinSvrStd RUS LicSAPk OLP NL (Microsoft Windows Server Standard Russian License/Software Assurance Pack OPEN No Level) – full license + Software Assurance for Microsoft Windows Server Standard, Russian version, price level NL
OfficeStd 2010 SNGL OLP C (Microsoft Office 2010 Sngl OPEN 1 License Level C) – full license for Microsoft Office 2010 Standard, single language version, price level C.

List of software products available via OLP