Understanding CSP Perpetual Licensing for Windows Server and SQL Server

The requests for on-premises Server licensing quotes are constant and not slowing down even with the availability of virtualized servers on Azure, indeed the demand persists. We all know the focus is on migrating solutions to the Cloud, but for valid reasons, some customers still require on-premises licensing.

Now, if you are a business owner or IT manager who needs to run Windows Server and SQL Server workloads on-premises or in a hybrid cloud environment, you might be wondering how to license these products cost-effectively and flexibly. Microsoft offers a variety of licensing options for Windows Server and SQL Server, but one that we have been quoting from over the last three years is the CSP Perpetual licensing model. It is essentially Volume Licensing but with no Software Assurance. In this blog, we will explain what CSP Perpetual licensing is, how it works, and why some customers choose it over other alternatives.

What is CSP Perpetual licensing?

CSP Perpetual licensing is a new way of licensing Windows Server and SQL Server products that was introduced by Microsoft in January 2021. It is part of the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program, which is a platform that allows Microsoft partners like us to provide cloud-based solutions and services to customers. CSP Perpetual licensing allows customers to purchase perpetual licenses for Windows Server and SQL Server through the CSP program, instead of buying them through the traditional Volume Licensing (VL) program. Perpetual licenses are licenses that do not expire and do not require annual renewals or payments. They grant the customer the right to use the software indefinitely, as long as they comply with the license terms and conditions.

How does CSP Perpetual licensing work?

CSP Perpetual licensing works similarly to VL licensing but with some key differences. First, CSP Perpetual licensing is only available for Windows Server and SQL Server products, and only for the latest versions (Windows Server 2022 and SQL Server 2022). Secondly, CSP Perpetual licensing is only available through Microsoft partners who are authorized to sell CSP products and services. Thirdly, CSP Perpetual licensing offers more flexibility and simplicity than VL licensing, as it does not require minimum purchase quantities or complex contract negotiations. Customers can buy CSP Perpetual licenses on a pay-as-you-go basis and adjust the number of licenses (up) as their needs change. Customers can also manage their CSP Perpetual licenses through a single portal, where they can view their license keys, usage of apps, user details and logs, as well as support information.

Why choose CSP Perpetual licensing?

CSP Perpetual licensing offers several benefits for customers who need to run Windows Server and SQL Server workloads on-premises or in a hybrid cloud environment. Some of the main benefits are:

• Cost savings: CSP Perpetual licensing can help customers save money on their Windows Server and SQL Server licenses, as they do not have to pay for annual renewals or maintenance fees. They also do not have to pay for Software Assurance, which is an optional add-on that provides access to new versions, updates, and support. CSP Perpetual licensing includes these benefits as part of the license price, which is typically lower than the VL price. Customers can also take advantage of the Azure Hybrid Benefit, which allows them to use their CSP Perpetual licenses to run Windows Server and SQL Server workloads on Azure at a reduced cost.
• Flexibility: CSP Perpetual licensing can help customers adapt to changing business needs, as they can easily increase or decrease the number of licenses they need, without having to commit to long-term contracts or minimum purchase quantities. They can also choose the licensing model that best suits their workload type, such as core-based or server/CAL-based licensing. Customers can also migrate their CSP Perpetual licenses to different servers or locations, as long as they comply with the license mobility rules.
• Simplicity: CSP Perpetual licensing can help customers simplify their licensing management, as they can buy, activate, and manage their Windows Server and SQL Server licenses through the CSP portal, where they can also access their cloud subscriptions and services. They do not have to deal with multiple contracts, invoices, or support channels, as they have a single point of contact for their CSP products and services. They also do not have to worry about license compliance, as the CSP portal automatically tracks and reports their license usage and entitlements.

If you are interested in learning more about CSP Perpetual licensing, or if you want to get a quote for your customers’ Windows Server and SQL Server licensing needs, we are here to help. We are a Microsoft partner who is authorized to sell CSP products and services, and we have the expertise and experience to help you find the best licensing solution for your customers. To get started, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and we will be happy to assist you.