Licensing models
At the time of writing, there are two core license acquisition models: direct licensing and indirect licensing.
Direct licensing refers to when an organization makes a direct purchase, such as through the Microsoft admin center.
Indirect licensing refers to when an organization makes a purchase through a partner or reseller agreement. There are currently six indirect licensing methods available to acquire Microsoft 365, which are as follows:
- Cloud Solution Provider (CSP): Organizations establish a billing relationship with a provider, who purchases on their behalf and sells the licenses to the customer.
- Microsoft Open (includes Open Value, Open Value Subscription, and Open License): The Open License program allows customers to buy licensing through a reseller, typically for smaller organizations (more than 5 seats and typically fewer than 500). As of the end of 2021, customers who wish to purchase via Open License will be directed to CSPs...
