When it comes to cloud computing, there are two main options: Service Provider License Agreement (SPLA) or Cloud Solution Provider (CSP). Both have their benefits, but which one is right for you? Here we will compare and contrast the two models so that you can make an informed decision.
What is SPLA
SPLA, or Service Provider License Agreement, is a Microsoft program that enables service providers to offer Microsoft software products to their customers. SPLA licenses are held by the service provider, rather than the customer, and are month-to-month with no commitment required. The CSP program, or Cloud Solution Provider program, is newer and provides enhanced security and support to providers. It also allows providers to sell cloud services directly to their customers, something not possible with SPLA.
What is Azure
Azure is Microsoft’s cloud computing platform, providing a range of services from Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) to Platform as a Service (PaaS) to Software as a Service (SaaS). Azure is a versatile platform that can be used for a variety of applications, including web applications, mobile apps, and big data solutions. Azure is also compliant with industry-leading security standards and has been awarded the ISO 27001 certification.
The benefits of using SPLA over Azure
The benefits of using SPLA over Azure include more support and security for providers, the ability to offer round-the-clock high-level support, proactive maintenance and monitoring, and license mobility. With Azure, you are on your own when it comes to support. Additionally, while providers must commit and pay for 1 or 3 years upfront with CSP, they can also define the customer price for the license. This allows for a more flexible pricing model that can be tailored to the customer’s needs. Finally, with Azure, no license mobility is applicable to SPLA licensing, whereas license mobility is functional for CSP subscriptions.
How to decide which is best for you
It can be difficult to decide which licensing model is best for you: SPLA or CSP. Both have their benefits, and it ultimately depends on your specific needs and what you are looking to get out of Azure. Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
1. What kind of support do you need? With SPLA, service providers have more direct access to Microsoft support, while Azure customers must go through the partner.
2. How much flexibility do you need in pricing? With SPLA, providers can define the customer price for the license, while with CSP the customer pays a set price per month.
3. How much control do you want over your cloud services? With SPLA, service providers manage and monitor the services themselves, while Azure customers rely on their partners for this kind of support.
4. Do you need license mobility? License mobility is not available with SPLA but is functional for CSP subscriptions.
Conclusion
With SPLA, service providers have more direct access to Microsoft support, while Azure customers must go through the partner. Additionally, while providers must commit and pay for 1 or 3 years upfront with CSP, they can also define the customer price for the license. This allows for a more flexible pricing model that can be tailored to the customer’s needs. Finally, with Azure there is no license mobility applicable to SPLA licensing, whereas license mobility is functional for CSP subscriptions.
