As technology advisors, we spend a lot of time with customers discussing Microsoft license types. But long before the licensing issue comes up, many of our customers invest time and resources in comparing and pricing MS products. It is no easy task; comparing and pricing Microsoft offerings is not for the faint of heart.

Microsoft license types and requirements are predicated on the chosen applications and how they are used. In most cases the number of users also matters. Without getting into all the details, it is sufficient to say that a lot goes into making software choices before considering Microsoft license types.

Microsoft Operating Systems

Whether you are a system administrator or an IT team member, or someone whose only experience with MS is the computer you work with on a day-to-day basis, we are guessing you are familiar with Microsoft operating systems. Microsoft Windows dominates the business world.

At the current time, Microsoft only supports two versions of Windows for both business and personal use: Windows 10 and Windows 11. Support for the former is expected to end next year, which is why MS is pushing for current users to upgrade to Windows 11.

From a licensing standpoint, both versions of Windows can be obtained with either a Home or Pro license. Each instance of either operating system must be accompanied by its own license.

Productivity Software

The second-most familiar category of MS software to average users is the company's productivity software. If you use Microsoft Office 365, you are familiar with this category. Also known as Microsoft 365, it is a cloud-based suite of office applications that includes a word processor, spreadsheet app, presentation app, and email client.

Similar offerings in the productivity category include:

• Office 2024 (and previous editions) – This is the office suite for organizations that prefer to download and install software rather than using a subscription-based cloud service.

• Office Online – A free, web-based version of Microsoft 365. Because it's free, it doesn't require a special license. However, it is limited in terms of overall functionality.

The combination of Microsoft's operating system and productivity suite is the foundation of its PC dominance, but Microsoft goes above and beyond the desktop.

‍Network and Cloud Offerings

‍Your average team member doesn't see Microsoft beyond the desktop operating system and productivity software. But behind every Microsoft-powered office is a combination of network and cloud offerings that drive a good deal of the public internet. Microsoft's Azure is a perfect example. Azure includes a wide range of services, like:

• Azure Virtual Machines

• Azure Storage

• Azure SQL Database

Nearly every network and cloud offering are subject to a variety of Microsoft license types, as well as enterprise business solutions, CRM software, and ERP products.

‍Making Sense of It All

‍As technology advisors, we can help you make the best use of desktop, cloud, and network solutions supported by the most appropriate Microsoft license types. When it comes to licenses, remember that several things are in play:

• Use cases and requirements.

• User and device volume.

• Storage and cloud resource needs.

• Budget and cost structure.

• Security concerns and compliance.

Microsoft is a lot more than just an operating system developer. It is one of the most dominant tech companies in the business world. From software choices to license types and security on both networks and in the cloud, it can be overwhelming. Let Opkalla help guide your Microsoft licensing strategy!