You have questions…We have answers. Another month, and another list of licensing questions asked by the hosting community.
- I have a small hosting company that runs primarily Linux machines with a few Windows VM’s mixed in. The only thing we do customer facing with Windows systems is a small number of users access our application via a published app over RDP Web. Do I need SPLA?
Yes. You have Windows running in your cloud environment. It does not matter how small or large the environment is. One thing you might want to check out is the Cloud Platform Suite. You must run Hyper-V and System Center but it could lower your costs.
- I get CSP from one reseller and SPLA from another. Do I qualify for the new QMTH addendum or do I need to get it all from one source? Totally confused.
In QMTH, you are the CSP partner, not someone else. I am guessing you are using the CSP reseller to go indirect. If that is the case, you must become CSP Direct authorized. Purchasing CSP from a third-party does not qualify you for QMH. That being said, your customer can purchase CSP from any organization and you can host it for them (if you are QMH authorized).
- The audit bug got me. I think it’s because my reseller refuses to submit my usage report even though I sent it to them several times. Any advice?
Microsoft can audit any partner they choose. There’s not one factor that triggers an audit. More eyes will be watching if you are continually delinquent on your monthly report. The biggest reason why a reseller does not submit a usage report is because the provider is delinquent on their payments. Are you up to date? All payments paid to the reseller?
- Can I rent a PC using the QMTH addendum? I know in the past I could rent a Windows desktop license in SPLA. Can I do it now?
I think it makes sense to do so but unfortunately it is not part of the addendum. I would love feedback here. Section C of the QMTH addendum states” “This Amendment does not authorize Customer to resell, distribute, or otherwise provide End User or CSP Licensees direct access to Windows 10 Software” In order to lease a PC to a third-party you need to follow the Microsoft Leasing Agreement.
- I report Office, Exchange, SharePoint and Skype. I heard rumors of a price increase coming in the pipeline from various resellers that I reached out to. Any truth?
Let me put it to you this way – The products you just mentioned happen to be part of Office 365. I don’t foresee Microsoft lowering pricing in SPLA for the same products offered by Microsoft.
Thanks for reading,
SPLA Man
PS – What was the SPLA partner’s response to my answer for question 5? “That’s BS Mate!” My response? “Don’t shoot the messenger.” Have a question? Email info@splalicensing.com
SPLA Licensing 