Microsoft Windows^® Licensing Guide

Considering Buying Microsoft Software Licenses?

The decision making process leading up to the purchase of software licenses can present itself as a maze for many organisations and individuals alike. The Microsoft Licensing Wheel pictured below describes the variety of Microsoft licensing options available in a simple, easy to read layout which will help you navigate the path that best meets your circumstances and needs. The Wheel also highlights the pitfalls to avoid when going through the decision making process to ensure that the software you purchase is genuine. The unlicensed scenarios described in the Wheel can be applied when considering the purchase of most software vendor’s licenses.

Here are some of the key risks associated with the purchase of non-genuine software:-

• Viruses and Trojan horses – copied or counterfeit software often contains malware which can lead to:-
  • Network downtime causing:-
    • costly loss of business
    • damage to reputation
    • a negative impact on repeat business
  • Data loss
• Paying significant sums of money that has not been catered for within budget for genuine copies of software licenses to replace the non-genuine copies discovered as a result of a vendor audit
• Risk of press reports naming and shaming users of non-genuine software and the subsequent risk to reputation

Further guidance about the risks associated with the purchase of non-genuine software can be obtained on the Wheel and at ‘Avoiding the Pitfalls’.

To download a copy of the Wheel please click here.