By Microsoft
In January 2021, we made perpetual software licenses available to commercial customers through partners in the Cloud Solution Provider program in order to meet customers’ on-premises needs while helping them evolve to a hybrid or cloud-based environment.
As part of this change, new license-only purchases should be transacted through the Cloud Solution Provider program. As of January 1, 2022, you won’t be able to renew or buy new software licenses or online services through the Microsoft Open License program.
Benefits of transitioning to the Cloud Solution Provider program
The new commerce experience includes perpetual software in the Cloud Solution Provider program. Leverage this opportunity to accelerate your customers’ transitions to the cloud by offering diverse cloud solutions and managed services.
Check out the Microsoft Inspire session to learn how to transition your Open License business, optimize perpetual software offers, and discover new cloud opportunities.
Transition timeline, as of July 2021
Cloud Solution Provider program
Perpetual software licenses available for public-sector customers (July 7, 2021).
Visual Studio Pro perpetual software licenses available for all segments (July 7, 2021).
Open license program
Microsoft is no longer launching new SKUs in the Open License program (July 1, 2021).
Open Value program
Education and nonprofit offers are available in the Open Value program (July 1, 2021). We strongly recommend that customers renew their Software Assurance in Open Value on their renewal date.
Upcoming
No new purchases or renewals can be made through the Open License program (January 1, 2022).
Get started today
To access software licenses and other benefits, join the Cloud Solution Provider program.
Step 1: Onboard to the Cloud Solution Provider program by working with your indirect provider.
Step 2: Transact perpetual software in the Cloud Solution Provider program to grow your cloud business.
Drive more cloud services in the Cloud Solution Provider program
Accelerate the transition from perpetual software to cloud solutions and grow your cloud business:
- Windows Server and SQL Server on Azure: Grow cloud revenue by helping your customers migrate to Windows Server and SQL Server on Azure.
- Transition from Office to Microsoft 365: Offer your customers the most collaborative and integrated experience with Microsoft 365.