Microsoft Open License was a widely used volume licensing program that allowed small and medium sized businesses (SMBs) to purchase Microsoft software in a flexible and cost effective way.
Microsoft officially discontinued the Open License program on January 1, 2022, as part of its transition to modern licensing models. Despite this, many organizations still rely on Open Licenses today. In this guide, you will learn how the program worked, why it was discontinued, what replaced it, and how you can still benefit from it.
What Was Microsoft Open License?
Microsoft Open License was designed to make volume licensing accessible to SMBs without the complexity of large enterprise agreements.
It allowed businesses to:
• Purchase perpetual licenses with a one time payment
• Start from as few as 5 licenses
• Add licenses over time as the organization grows
• Benefit from volume pricing without long term commitments
Because of this flexibility, it became one of the most popular licensing programs for smaller organizations.
Why Did Microsoft Discontinue Open License?
Microsoft ended Open License as part of a broader shift toward cloud based and subscription driven solutions. The key reasons for this decision include: the transition to Microsoft 365 and cloud services, simplified purchasing through cer, and standardization of licensing models. According to Microsoft, customers are now encouraged to purchase licenses through partners using modern programs such as CSP.
Read more about the move to the Cloud Solution Provider program.
What Replaced Microsoft Open License?
If you want to purchase Microsoft licenses today, there are two main alternatives:
Cloud Solution Provider (CSP)
Cloud Solution Provider is the primary replacement for Open License. They are licenses that can be purchased through a Microsoft's partner. This option supports both cloud and certain perpetual licenses, providing a flexible and scalable option for consumers. Microsoft also provide included support and advisory services along with CSP.
Read more about Cloud Solution Provider (CSP).
Open Value
Open Value is a structured alternative for organizations that want Software Assurance. This is a subscription based licensing model that includes possible upgrades and support, which is suitable for businesses with predictable and long-term needs.
Read more about Microsoft licensing programs here.
Can You Still Use Microsoft Open License?
The answer to this question is simply yes. Even though the program has been discontinued, existing licenses remain fully valid and usable. You can continue using them without any time limitation, and Software Assurance remains active until its expiration date. However, it is no longer possible to purchase new Open Licenses directly from Microsoft.
A Cost-Effective Alternative: Pre-Owned Microsoft Licenses
Since Microsoft has phased out Open License, many organizations are looking for ways to maintain their existing setup without moving to subscription-based models.
One of the most effective solutions is buying used Microsoft volume licenses.
This allows you to:
• Save up to 70% compared to new licenses
• Stay fully compliant with EU regulations
• Continue using perpetual software
• Avoid unnecessary migration to cloud subscriptions
The legality of reselling software licenses within the EU is confirmed by the European Court of Justice. For many businesses, this is the ideal balance between cost control and operational continuity.
Which Microsoft Products Are Available?
Microsoft Open Licenses are available for a wide range of well known products, including:
• Microsoft Office (Office 2016, 2019, 2021, and 2024)
This makes it possible to build or expand a complete Microsoft infrastructure using volume licenses.
Microsoft Open License: up to 70% cheaper
Want to make cheap use of Microsoft Open License? Then the used Microsoft Volume Licenses are an interesting choice. You can buy used licenses, which you can neatly take over on the basis of official options. You save up to 70% compared to the regular price, while you can use it for business without any worries.
With our online range of licenses, we ensure that you pay a low price for this. You can buy used Microsoft licenses, including the original documentation and with proof that you have paid for it properly. Request your qoute here.
Do you have questions? Contact us!
For more information about which Microsoft software and licenses are best for you, please contact us. We are available from Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
FAQs
Is Microsoft Open License still available?
No. Microsoft discontinued Open License for new purchases in 2022.
Read more about the move to the Cloud Solution Provider program.
What is the best alternative today?
The Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program is the main alternative for most businesses.
Is it legal to buy used Microsoft licenses?
Yes. The resale of software licenses is legal within the European Union when done according to the applicable regulations.
Read more about legality of reselling software licenses within the EU.
Who should consider used licenses?
Organizations that want to reduce costs while continuing to use perpetual Microsoft software.
