MS Office
Microsoft Office
Editions
- Microsoft Office Standard
- Microsoft Office Professional Plus
- Microsoft Office 365
Versions
- Microsoft Office 2013
- Microsoft Office 2016
- Microsoft Office 2019
- Microsoft Office 2021
License model
Microsoft Office offers both perpetual licenses (one-time purchase) for versions like Office 2019 and subscription-based licenses for Microsoft 365. Perpetual licenses are tied to one device, while Microsoft 365 licenses can be used on multiple devices and are tied to the user.
License unit restriction
Perpetual Licenses
These licenses allow Microsoft Office to be installed on one PC. They do not offer the flexibility of installation on multiple devices unlike Microsoft 365 licenses.
Microsoft 365 Licenses
These are subscription-based and can be used on up to 5 different devices of a primary single user, providing greater flexibility.
Multi-device Licensing
A single license (non-Enterprise-Agreement on non-Company-Wide) of Microsoft Office, purchased for one device can typically be installed on a second portable device for use by the same (primary) user, though some restrictions apply regarding simultaneous use and types of devices.
License mobility
Microsoft 365 licenses offer high/ultimited mobility, allowing users to access the software on any device. Perpetual licenses do not offer this flexibility, the mobility is restricted to 90 day reassignment right.
License Suites
Retail Suites Home and Student: Includes core applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. It is ideal for students and families seeking classic Office apps and email. Home and Business: This suite includes all the core applications plus Outlook. It is tailored for families and small businesses who need classic Office apps plus mail. OEM Suites OEM versions of the Home and Student or Home and Business suites are tied to the hardware they were sold with and are not transferable between devices. Volume Licensing Suites Office Standard: Includes core applications plus Outlook and Publisher. It’s designed for small to medium-sized businesses requiring the desktop Office applications plus Outlook. Office Professional Plus: Offers a comprehensive suite including core applications plus Outlook, Publisher, Access, and Skype for Business. This suite is optimal for medium to large enterprises requiring a broad range of productivity applications and advanced communication tools. Microsoft 365 Apps for enterprise: Formerly known as Office 365 ProPlus, this subscription-based service includes all standard Office applications and additional features like Teams, secure cloud storage, and enterprise-grade security, accessible on multiple devices per user. These suites are designed to meet a variety of needs from personal and educational use to comprehensive enterprise solutions, providing flexibility in both functionality and deployment options.
Software assurance
Software Assurance provides benefits such as software upgrades, Microsoft Office Server, unlimited mobility, Microsoft Workplace Discount Program old name HUP (Home Use Program) and other services & benefits for volume licensing customers.
Licensing external users
External users require their own licenses unless covered under volume licensing terms that allow for external user access.
Downgrading versions and editions
Volume licensing customers can downgrade to any prior version of Microsoft Office that they have legally obtained the rights to use.
Licensing virtual machines (VMs)/containers
Licensing for VMs and containers is permissible under volume licensing agreements, allowing use in various virtual environments. This allows for Microsoft Office to be used in various virtual environments. Licensing must be assigned to the accessing machine, not the virtual environment itself. This means that the physical host or the device accessing the virtual desktop needs to be licensed for Office, but the virtual machine where the Office is installed does not require a separate license
Online Subscriptions
- Office 365
- Microsoft 365 More info here: https://m365maps.com/