So there's nothing unique about joining Microsoft's CSP (Cloud Solution Provider) program, particularly as an indirect CSP reseller. You really just need a presence in the geography you will be reselling either Office 365 or Azure.

The unique angle for us, is something central to what we do - compliance. Some may ask, how you could be out of compliance when everything is ordered through the partner center and hosted in a Microsoft datacenter?

Quite simply by making yourself - a CSP partner - a tenant, and provisioning either Azure or Office 365 for internal use. If you look at the Microsoft Cloud Reseller Agreement, which all CSP partners are required to agree to the terms of, you need to take note of Section 8 d., where you'll see this language:

Use Restrictions. Company may not use Products acquired under this Agreement internally. Company may not distribute or otherwise transfer Products acquired under this Agreement to any of its Affiliates. These restrictions do not apply to Products that Company acquires through other licensing programs, such as the Enterprise Agreement program.

The reasons for reporting internal use through CSP are obvious: you capture the margins CSP partners get plus in many cases large, back-end rebates and incentives. This wouldn't be hard for Microsoft to catch and they would be motivated given how much more they make through other licensing vehicles.

If you find yourself in this position, there is another option that's totally compliant. Have Altaris provision what you need for internal use through our CSP agreement. We can work out a deal that still makes it financially attractive while at the same time, fully compliant.

Either email us at info@altariscloud.com or book a complimentary consultation using our booking tool below.

From your Microsoft Licensing Specialists at Altaris Cloud