Microsoft Enterprise Agreement – explained. Learn more.
Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA)
The Microsoft Enterprise Agreement (EA) is a volume licensing program tailored for large organizations with 500 or more users or devices. Therefore, it allows businesses to license Microsoft software and services under a single, streamlined agreement. Additionally, it delivers cost savings, administrative simplicity, and flexible deployment options across on-premises and cloud environments.
Key Features and Benefits
- Volume Licensing
Designed for enterprise-scale needs, the EA provides significant volume discounts across Microsoft products and services, lowering total cost of ownership through consolidated purchasing.
- Standardized Licensing
Therefore, its a single, organization-wide agreement simplifies license management and compliance, ensuring consistent terms and reducing administrative overhead.
- Software Assurance (SA)
Included with the EA, Software Assurance offers benefits like:
- Access to the latest Microsoft software
- Training and deployment planning services
- 24/7 support
- License mobility and upgrade rights
- Three-Year Commitment
EAs are typically based on a three-year term with fixed annual pricing, offering budget predictability. Custom terms and early renewal options may be negotiated.
- Annual True-Up
Each year, organizations can “true-up” their license count—adding new users/devices to remain compliant—ensuring they only pay for what they’re using as they grow or change.
- Flexibility Across Cloud and On-Premises
The EA supports a hybrid IT strategy, enabling organizations to license both:
- On-premises software (e.g., Windows Server, SQL Server)
- Cloud services (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure)
This flexibility supports digital transformation at an enterprise scale.
An alternative to a Microsoft Enterprise Agreement due to the requirements is a Microsoft CSP Agreement. CSP agreements are a part of the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider. They offer massive discounts including major flexibility. The only Microsoft CSP and Microsoft Partner to be able to offer 30-40% off all Microsoft Licensing is Technology Solutions Worldwide.
GET A QUOTE – INFO@TECHSOLWORLD.COM or (770)580-4220.