• Operating Systems: Windows product family for home and professional use
• Desktop Software: Microsoft Office suites for increased productivity
• Server Software: Software server products, services and solutions, including: Windows Server operating system, Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Enterprise Services, Visual Studio, System Center products, Forefront security products and BizTalk Server 

What is a license?

A software license provides the legal right to install, use, access, display, run, or otherwise interact with a software program. A license does not necessarily include the rights to media, manuals, or support. The way in which the software can be used is determined by the license agreement. Consumers must agree to the terms of the license agreement when they use the software. License compliance protects a software developer’s investment in its intellectual property.
For consumers, the benefits of compliance outweigh the disadvantages. With proper compliance, consumers are sure that the software they are using is covered by the terms of the license—protecting them from incomplete, pirated, corrupted, or malfunctioning software. In addition, they have the option of receiving technical services and support to maximize their investment.

License Life Span

Licenses can have different life spans. They can be either perpetual or nonperpetual:

• Perpetual licenses are everlasting and valid if the software is being used in accordance with the license-agreement requirements.
• Nonperpetual licenses, or subscription licenses, are temporary and provide the right to use a particular licensed product until the end of the license-agreement term. They are available only through certain comprehensive Microsoft Volume Licensing programs.

License Types

• Full Packaged Product
  Full packaged product (FPP) refers to the shrink-wrapped box of licensed software sold through the distribution channel to resellers. The consumer usually acquires the product from a reseller. Each FPP generally contains one license per box, along with media and documentation, and is designed to meet low-volume needs.
• OEM System Builder
  An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) system builder is usually a computer manufacturer who sells their hardware with preinstalled software. An OEM license is often the easiest and most economical way for customers to receive their Windows operating system software.
• Microsoft Volume Licensing
  Microsoft Volume Licensing programs serve the needs of organizations that acquire multiple licenses, but don’t need multiple copies of the media and the documentation, and don’t want to keep track of numerous individual end-user license terms. Volume Licensing offers the potential for substantial savings, ease of deployment, flexible acquisition, varied payment options, and other benefits such as ongoing maintenance.