This week’s topic is less about breaches, and more about updates you should know.

UPDATE Alert:

Microsoft recently announced some changes that will take place early next year regarding the current structure of their licensing program. Naturally, you’re probably wondering a few things 1.) What are the changes? 2.) How do they affect you? 

Currently, Microsoft operates under their Microsoft Open License program, which was created over 20 years ago. This program was designed with small and mid-sized companies in mind, as described by Microsoft. The program was structured to help those parties who essentially needed to buy multiple licenses at volume prices. (Microsoft.com, 2021)

How it Could Affect You:

So what are the changes?

Effective January 1, 2022, customers will no longer be able to purchase new or renew existing licenses through Microsoft’s Open License program. In-stead, Microsoft will be transitioning to what they are calling their Open Value Subscription program. 

The Microsoft Open Value Subscription program means that customers will now need to interact more with their Microsoft partners in the Cloud Solution Provider program and make their subscription purchases through them. 

What do you need to know going for-ward?

“Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) partners will be the partners that will offer perpetual licenses after the end of the Open License program. Perpetual licenses are pay-once, non-subscription licenses that don’t expire. If organizations are using Software Assurance (SA) with those perpetual licenses, which lets them migrate to the latest software release, then they’ll only be able to buy SA through a program different from the Open License program in 2022.” (redmondmag.com, 2021)

Hodgson Can Help:

Hodgson Consulting & Solutions specializes in securing data and information loss prevention for companies with multiple locations and/or a remote workforce. As a Microsoft partner, Hodgson Consulting & Solutions will continue to keep you updated as the details of these changes continue to unfold.