Directions on Microsoft: Explains Enterprise Cloud Licensing

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Aug 23, 2011, 02:19 ET

KIRKLAND, Wash., Aug. 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft is making a lot of noise about new "volume licensing" rules designed to help customers transition to Office 365. But so far they've been thin on the details.

John Cullen, one of the Microsoft licensing experts at the independent analyst firm Directions on Microsoft, has just published a report that sheds light on the new licensing mobility rules, including significant restrictions and caveats buried in the fine print. Prior to joining Directions, John spent five years at Microsoft writing the licensing rules for Windows Server, so he really knows how to tear apart the Microsoft Product Use Rights (PUR).

In his report, Cullen identifies significant differences in the licensing rights of on-premises vs. hosted versions of Microsoft server applications, including a few surprising "gotchas" concerning SQL Server and Biz Talk Server. Says Cullen, "Overall, the changes create a net positive effect because customers can now do something they couldn't do before." But he goes on to caution, "Companies really need to study the rules, because sometimes on-premises solutions require additional licenses when moved to the cloud."

The full report is available for a limited time at Licensing Microsoft in the Cloud.

About Directions on Microsoft

Directions on Microsoft is an independent IT analyst firm focused exclusively on Microsoft technologies since 1992. Directions is best known for its Microsoft Enterprise Software Roadmaps and Microsoft Licensing Guides. Their two-day Microsoft Licensing Boot Camp provides graduate-level training on how to effectively license Microsoft products such as Windows Server, Exchange, SharePoint, SQL Server and Office.

Contact: [email protected]

SOURCE Directions on Microsoft