Maximizing Discounts for Long-Running Azure VM Workloads

Wes Miller analyzes and writes about Microsoft’s security, identity management, and systems management technologies. Before joining Directions on Microsoft, Wes... more

Several licensing options can reduce costs for long-running Azure VM workloads.
Each option has its own limitations and restrictions, and upfront planning and financial commitments are required.

Depending on how long and with what regularity an organization expects to run a VM in Azure, there may be as many as three options to reduce cost on Microsoft software or Azure VM compute time, by making a purchase ahead of time.

All prices shown in this report reflect pay-as-you-go pricing in the West US region, as of Feb. 2018.

Ideal for Long-Term Workloads

Three options can potentially reduce costs:

Azure Reserved VM Instances reduce Azure VM compute costs over a one- or three-year period.

Azure Hybrid Benefit for Windows Server (formerly Azure HUB) eliminates Windows Server costs in Azure VMs, based on licensing Windows Server with Software Assurance (SA) on-premises.

License Mobility through SA reduces Microsoft server application license costs in hosted VMs, based on licensing that server application with SA on-premises.

Atlas Members have full access

Get access to this and thousands of other unbiased analyses, roadmaps, decision kits, infographics, reference guides, and more, all included with membership. Comprehensive access to the most in-depth and unbiased expertise for Microsoft enterprise decision-making is waiting.

Membership Options

Already have an account? Login Now