Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription: A Comprehensive Guide
Microsoft’s Enterprise Agreement (EA) Subscription is a licensing program that provides organizations with a cost-effective way to purchase Microsoft products and services. Through this program, organizations can gain access to the latest Microsoft software and cloud services, as well as receive support and deployment services that are customized to their needs.
If you are considering a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription for your organization, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to know.
What is Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription?
The Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription is a licensing program designed for enterprise-level organizations. The subscription provides access to a wide range of Microsoft software, cloud services, and related support services for a fixed period of time. The duration of the subscription can be up to three years, and it can be renewed as needed.
The EA subscription provides significant cost savings compared to purchasing individual Microsoft licenses. The subscription fee covers all software and services provided under the agreement, which can help organizations simplify their licensing management and reduce costs.
What Are the Key Benefits of Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription?
Cost-Effective: The EA Subscription offers organizations a cost-effective way to license Microsoft products and services. Instead of purchasing individual licenses, the subscription fee covers all software and services provided under the agreement.
Flexible: The EA Subscription allows organizations to customize their software and services based on their needs. Organizations can add or remove products and services as needed, and the subscription can be renewed based on the organization’s changing needs.
Access to Latest Microsoft Technology: The EA Subscription provides organizations with the latest Microsoft software and cloud services, ensuring that they have access to the most up-to-date technology.
Additional Support and Deployment Services: The subscription also includes support and deployment services that are customized to the organization’s needs. This can help organizations to reduce their IT management costs by outsourcing certain tasks to Microsoft.
What Are the Requirements for Signing Up for Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription?
To sign up for the EA Subscription, your organization must meet certain requirements. These requirements include:
– The organization must have 500 or more users or devices.
– The organization must commit to a three-year minimum subscription term.
What Products and Services Are Included in Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription?
The EA Subscription offers a wide range of Microsoft products and services, including:
– Windows: The operating system that runs on desktops, laptops, and tablets.
– Office: The suite of productivity applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and more.
– Exchange: The email and calendaring service for businesses.
– SharePoint: The platform for collaboration and content management.
– Skype for Business: The messaging, calling, and meeting app for businesses.
– SQL Server: The relational database management system.
– Azure: The cloud computing service for building, deploying, and managing applications.
How to Get Started with Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription?
To get started with the EA Subscription, you will need to follow these steps:
1. Contact a Microsoft Licensing Solution Provider (LSP): An LSP is a certified partner that can help you with licensing and deployment services.
2. Determine Your Needs: Work with your LSP to identify the products and services that your organization needs, and the number of licenses required.
3. Sign the Agreement: Once you have determined the products and services you need, you can sign the EA Subscription Agreement with your LSP.
4. Activate Your Subscription: Once the agreement is signed, your LSP will activate your subscription and provide you with access to the Microsoft software and services.
In conclusion, the Microsoft Enterprise Agreement Subscription is a cost-effective way for enterprise-level organizations to purchase Microsoft products and services. The subscription offers access to the latest Microsoft technology, customized support and deployment services, and significant cost savings compared to purchasing individual licenses. If you are considering the EA Subscription for your organization, it is best to work with a Microsoft Licensing Solution Provider to identify your organization’s needs and determine the best subscription plan.