Though not a topic one would expect to find on a GoldMine blog, as businesses are considering new Server 2008, Windows7, and now Office 2010, we have been getting asked on a regular basis about the flavors and version of Office. As a Microsoft reseller, we also had to take it one step forward… What “type” of license should I buy?
If all you need is to find out which suite is right for you, here is the Microsoft link for that information: http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/buy/office-2010-which-suite-is-right-for-you-FX101825640.aspx. Note, that as per Microsoft, “Office Home and Student” licenses are not to be used in a “for-profit” business.
If you are only buying a few licenses, stop here, the rest of the article will just add extra info you won’t need.
The real research came when asked about Volume License vs. Box Product. Why should I spend more (or not) on Volume Licensing?
- Can be deployed using 1 license key. No need to keep track of which key is installed on which PC.
- Allows for disk image deployment. You can install it on one PC, then you can image that install, and roll it out to other PCs.
- Includes “Networking” rights: The ability to install Office 2010 on a Thin Client Server and not have to provide that server its own per user license of Office too.
- Includes “Downgrade” rights. If need be, you can opt to install an older version of Office instead.
And if you’re interested, here is the link comparing the 2 flavors of volume licensing suites: http://office2010.microsoft.com/en-us/buy/office-2010-volume-licensing-suites-comparison-FX101825637.aspx.
Enjoy!