Microsoft Volume Licenses at Softwarehandel24

Purchasing Microsoft software through so-called volume licenses is no longer reserved for large companies. Softwarehandel24 offers you the opportunity to purchase individual licenses from such volume licenses – and at particularly attractive prices. In addition, you will often find editions in the range that are hardly available as single licenses. But how exactly does the purchase of individual Microsoft volume licenses work? Below you will learn:

1. What advantages volume licenses have for both companies and individuals
2. Why the purchase and sale of individual licenses from volume packages is legal in the EU
3. How you can benefit from used volume licenses at Softwarehandel24

What are Microsoft Volume Licenses?

A Microsoft software license is generally distinguished between a single license and a volume license. The latter is offered by Microsoft for companies that have a greater need for software. A volume license includes at least five single licenses – but usually, it is significantly more.

Definition: Volume License

Strictly speaking, a volume license refers to a fixed package of single licenses, similar to a "bulk package." However, in many forums, a single license from a volume package is often mistakenly referred to as a "volume license." The correct question would be: "Is it permissible to split a volume license into individual components and resell them separately?" – This is precisely the topic we will explore below.

Single License vs. Volume License

• Single License (FPP/OEM):
  Private customers usually purchase a so-called retail license (FPP – Full Packaged Product) or use an OEM version that is already installed on a PC. Such a license is usually only allowed to be used on the corresponding device plus possibly a second computer.
• Volume License:
  Companies or organizations with many PC workstations can obtain Microsoft software at favorable package prices. This saves costs and simplifies installation and management. In addition, a volume license often includes flexible options such as perpetual purchase (Perpetual License) or a time-limited rental variant (Subscription).

The prerequisite for a classic volume license is usually a minimum number of 250 end devices. However, Microsoft also offers tailored volume license agreements for smaller companies and public institutions.

Advantages of a Microsoft Volume License

By bundling a larger number of licenses, companies often receive significant discounts. Additionally, installation and management can be greatly simplified through central license keys. The option to use software indefinitely or choose a specific term through a subscription model is also attractive.

Typical Benefits at a Glance

• Cheaper package prices compared to the sum of individual retail licenses
• Simplified management through central installation
• Optional rental models: time-limited or flexible license terms
• Special usage framework: Depending on the contract, special provisions apply, such as downgrade rights or maintenance agreements

Overview of the Microsoft Volume Licensing Program

The specific policies that apply when purchasing and using volume licenses can be found in the Microsoft Volume Licensing Product Terms. All buyers must agree to the respective licensing terms to use the software.

Purpose and Benefits of Volume Licensing

Microsoft's volume licensing models offer multiple benefits:

1. Cost Reduction: No physical media (DVDs, CDs) required, resulting in overall more favorable conditions.
2. Flexible Licensing Options: Often, versions can be freely chosen, older releases can be used, and support options can be integrated.
3. Centralized Management: Easy activation and maintenance via MAK (Multiple Activation Key) or KMS (Key Management Service).

Structure and Organization

Microsoft typically divides its volume licensing programs into two main categories:

1. Companies with fewer than 250 devices/users
2. Companies with 250 or more devices/users

Which option is suitable in each case depends on the company size, the desired software type (Office, Server, etc.), and the planned usage.

Duration of Use for a Volume License

Volume licenses can either be "perpetual" (Perpetual License) or "temporary" (Subscription). If a license is acquired only for a certain period, the right to use it ends after expiration and can be extended if necessary.

Additional Contract Terms

Depending on the volume license agreement, special rights such as Downgrade, Reimaging, or Virtualization may be included. For smaller companies, the Open License program is applicable, which often includes Software Assurance (SA) for updates and support.

Main Advantage for Individual Customers: Affordable Licenses from Volume Packages

Individuals and smaller companies typically do not have access to the more cost-effective volume licenses. However, by splitting a volume license bundle into individual licenses, these target groups also gain access to software that would otherwise be reserved for large purchasers.

• Significant savings compared to the conventional purchase of a retail license
• No subscription costs anymore, as these are purchase versions

Additional Advantages of Purchasing Individual Volume Licenses

In addition to the price advantage, purchasing individual programs from volume licenses offers the benefit of accessing editions with extended functionality. Such editions are often not available as retail purchase versions but are reserved only for volume license customers.

Especially Professional or Enterprise editions of Microsoft Office, Windows, or servers usually have additional tools or management functions that are indispensable for professional users.

Is the Purchase of Microsoft Volume Licenses Legally Permissible?

The splitting of a volume license into individual licenses and the resale to third parties is generally legal within the EU. The only important thing is that the software licenses are no longer used on the originally licensed end devices. With the initial sale by the manufacturer, their right to distribution is exhausted.

Court Rulings in Germany and the EU

Both the Federal Court of Justice (BGH) and the European Court of Justice (ECJ) have repeatedly ruled that used software may generally be resold, provided it has been properly uninstalled from the initial device. Contractual clauses prohibiting resale are therefore invalid.

BGH and ECJ Principles

• Federal Court of Justice (06.07.2000): Principle of exhaustion under German Copyright Law (UrhG)
• European Court of Justice (03.07.2012): Confirms the one-time "exhaustion" of rights after the initial sale

Principle of Exhaustion

The principle of exhaustion according to § 69c No. 3 Sentence 2 UrhG states that the manufacturer's right to further distribute their software expires once it has been placed on the market with the consent of the rights holder. This equally applies to product keys from a volume license agreement.

Further Legal Notices on Trading Volume Licenses in the EU

Microsoft is bound by German and European jurisdiction. In countries outside the EU, different laws may apply. For companies purchasing used volume licenses, it is also the case that during audits there is no obligation to disclose a contract with Microsoft, as the purchase was not made directly through the manufacturer but through a dealer.

Microsoft Software from Volume Licenses at Softwarehandel24

Softwarehandel24 offers a wide portfolio of used licenses from Microsoft volume agreements: from current Office versions and Windows operating systems to CALs (Client Access Licenses) for servers.

Your Benefits When Purchasing Volume Licenses as Single Licenses

1. Unlimited Use: You acquire genuine purchase versions without mandatory updates or subscription fees.
2. Exclusive Editions: Editions that are usually reserved for volume license customers are also available.
3. Instant Download: After purchase, you can download and install the software immediately.
4. Tailored Licensing: Especially with CALs, you can purchase exactly the number of access licenses you need, without excess.
5. Full Audit Security: Used volume licenses are legally recognized and ensure secure licensing.

Do you have further questions?

If you would like to learn more about purchasing Microsoft Volume Licenses or need assistance with selection, feel free to contact us via email, phone, or directly here in the chat at swh24.com. We provide you with competent advice and offer secure, affordable solutions for your software needs.