Organizations need flexible, scalable, and cost-effective ways to manage their Microsoft cloud services. That’s where the Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) program comes in -- a modern licensing model designed to simplify cloud adoption and empower businesses of all sizes.
Understanding Microsoft Licensing Models
Microsoft offers several licensing agreement models, each tailored to different organizational needs:
- Pay-as-you-go (PAYG): Instant access with a credit card, but it's the most expensive and lacks flexibility or support.
- Enterprise Agreement (EA): A three-year commitment for large enterprises, offering centralized purchasing but limited agility.
- Microsoft Azure Consumption Commitment (MACC): Discounts for high usage, but support is self-managed.
- Microsoft Products and Services Agreement (MPSA): Ideal for ad-hoc licensing without long-term commitments.
- Microsoft Customer Agreement for Enterprise (MCA-E): Streamlined for cloud services with flexible purchasing and invoice management.
- Cloud Solution Provider (CSP): Subscription-based, flexible, and includes 24/7 partner support—making it one of the most versatile options available.
What is the Microsoft CSP Program
Launched in 2015, the Microsoft CSP program allows organizations to purchase Microsoft cloud services - like Microsoft 365 and Azure - through certified partners such as AMTRA. It’s a subscription-based model that offers:
- Flexible billing (monthly or annually)
- No minimum seat requirements
- 24/7 technical support
- Scalable licensing to match your business needs
This model is ideal for businesses that want to avoid the complexity of traditional licensing agreements while still receiving expert guidance and support.
Direct versus Indirect CSP. What's the Difference
Microsoft offers two CSP partner models:
- Direct CSP Partners purchase licenses directly from Microsoft and provide billing, provisioning, and support to their clients.
- Indirect CSP Partners work through a distributor but still offer full support and services to end customers.
Choosing between the two depends on your organization’s needs, but both models ensure you receive personalized service and expert support.
Why Choose CSP?
- No Long-Term Contracts | Enjoy the freedom to scale up or down as needed, with monthly or annual commitments.
- Cost-Effective Licensing | Take advantage of pricing flexibility and Azure discounts based on your usage.
- Tailored Solutions | Whether you're a small business or a large enterprise, CSP adapts to your unique needs with scalable, customized services.
Ready to Simplify Your Microsoft Licensing?
The Microsoft CSP program is a powerful way to manage your cloud services with flexibility, cost-efficiency, and expert support. Whether you're just starting your cloud journey or looking to optimize your current environment, partnering with a trusted CSP provider like AMTRA can make all the difference.
