The CSP Hoster Assessment: Microsoft launched a new initiative to ensure compliance within the CSP Hoster Program. Just because you are not using SPLA does not mean you are immune to compliance risk.
What do you need to do?
The first thing you should do, is take a breath. You will be fine. (maybe) Nah, the world does not end because of an audit, but you do need to prepare. Here is a checklist to ensure what you are doing is accurate. Have a question? email info@splalicensing.com to learn more.
- Are you a CSP Hoster? Dumb question, but this is for CSP Hoster only, not the Flexible Virtualization Benefit.
- Are you providing the customer with the licenses? Meaning you are not using your own licensing, correct? Remember in the CSP Hoster program, the end customer is the licensee.
- When was your last audit? This is important because usually there is a settlement date.
- Are you reporting the licenses accurately to Microsoft?
- How are you tracking the licenses and deployments? Do you have a way to track SPLA and CSP?
Remember, in any engagement, Microsoft is trying to verify what you are doing is accurate and fits withing the licensing terms. Unfortunately, with hosting, there are several different terms and conditions to adhere to. There’s the SPLA (SPUR) there’s volume licensing (EA’s) and now CSP and Flexible Virtualization. If you are not sure what the rules are, let’s set up some time to review in greater detail. This is a great opportunity to eliminate any risk before it becomes a risk.
Thanks for reading,
SPLA Man (or maybe CSP Man)
info@splalicensing.com
SPLA Licensing 