Octopus Glossary

Tools, processes, and documentation used to prepare for or respond to Microsoft licensing audits and prove correct usage reporting.

A service provider operating under Microsoft’s CSP Hoster program, allowing hosting of Microsoft software in dedicated or shared environments with specific licensing rules.

A Microsoft licensing benefit that allows certain licenses to be used in outsourced or shared infrastructure environments under defined conditions.

An IT environment that combines on-premises infrastructure, private cloud, and public cloud, often requiring multiple licensing models to be managed together.

The process of ensuring that software usage matches licensing rights, avoiding audit penalties and ensuring accurate reporting to Microsoft.

The process of analyzing software usage to reduce costs, avoid over-licensing, and ensure the most efficient licensing model is used.

A discipline focused on tracking, managing, and optimizing software usage and licenses to ensure compliance and cost efficiency.

A Microsoft licensing program that allows service providers to host Microsoft software and deliver it to customers as a service, with monthly usage-based reporting.

The monthly process where service providers must report actual usage of Microsoft software to remain compliant with SPLA agreements.

A billing model where customers are charged based on actual software or infrastructure usage, rather than fixed licenses.