Microsoft's cloud licensing changes: what you need to know

18.05.2011
Starting July 1, Microsoft customers will be able to use their current license agreements to move server applications from internal data centers to services, and contracts signed after that date will offer the same benefit.

But what Microsoft calls "" will only be available to customers who pay extra for Software Assurance, which can nearly double the cost of a license. Also, while the license mobility will apply to server applications, it won't affect the server operating system itself.

Here are the details of the changes and how they might affect you.

To continue reading, register here to . You'll get free access to premium content from CIO, Computerworld, CSO, InfoWorld, and Network World. See more or .