Can I purchase SQL Server via CSP Subscription and leverage AHB for SQL Server on Azure VM

Question

Can I purchase SQL Server via CSP Subscription and leverage AHB for SQL Server on Azure VM

Legendary Tokash 6

I am trying to find reference documentation that provides clarity on this particular use case:

I want to purchase SQL Server Licenses from my CSP Indirect Reseller, deploy SQL on an Azure Virtual Machine of appropriate cores matching the purpose, and leverage AHB/BYOL licensing model.

Microsoft Learn documentation here clearly indicates that a CSP Subscription qualifies, but in numerous other places it seems to indicate that Software Assurance is the only method to qualify. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/azure/azure-sql/virtual-machines/windows/pricing-guidance?source=recommendations&view=azuresql#byol

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Answer 1

kobulloc-MSFT 26,801 Microsoft Employee Moderator

Hello, @Legendary Tokash !

Can I use Azure Hybrid Benefit (AHB) with a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP)?

When it comes to the type of license required, an eligible Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) subscription qualifies (note the or on the list below):

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-gb/windows-server/get-started/azure-hybrid-benefit

Types of license

Windows Server Standard with active Software Assurance, or

Windows Server Datacenter with active Software Assurance, or

An eligible Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) subscription

Be sure to check with your CSP to confirm that the subscription is eligible and look through the other AHB requirements. I hope this helps!

Legendary Tokash 6 Reputation points

2023-02-17T20:32:07.3666667+00:00

Thank you for the response, however i don't think you understood the question. I am trying to clarify exactly what SQL Server Subscription I can purchase from a CSP, that I can then use in an Azure VM with the BYOL model. I've found that reference all over the place "an eligible CSP Subscription". I'm trying to identify exactly what it is I need to ask for, assuming it is legally possible.
kobulloc-MSFT 26,801 Reputation points Microsoft Employee Moderator

2023-02-20T19:56:46.58+00:00

Hello, @Legendary Tokash !

Sorry for the confusion! It sounds like @lukemurraynz has pointed you in the right direction. One of the challenges with CSP scenarios is that your CSP is responsible for supporting you and as a result, there's a limit to the CSP documentation that I'm able to reference on my end. Your CSP should be able to confirm your SQL Server AHB qualification through them.

Answer 2

Luke Murray 11,436 MVP Volunteer Moderator

SQL Server and Windows Server core licenses with active Software Assurance or qualifying subscription core licenses have Azure Hybrid Benefit eligibility in Azure, including:

Windows Server Datacenter edition.
Windows Server Standard edition.
SQL Server Enterprise Edition.
SQL Server Standard Edition.

https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/pricing/hybrid-benefit/#faq

Your best bet would be to reach out to your CSP directly; they should be able to help you work out your best bang for your buck, whether you need to go Software Assurance or a core license subscription.

Legendary Tokash 6 Reputation points

2023-02-17T20:33:55.96+00:00

Luke - Thank you very much. I'm currently in discussion with my CSP, but the current indication is that there are no available CSP Software Subscriptions for SQL Server that would qualify to be used on an Azure VM. While Software Assurance through a volume license provider is an obviously OK solution, it leads me to believe that someone is missing some information if the references keep talking about "SA -OR- a qualifying CSP Subsctiption"
Luke Murray 11,436 Reputation points MVP Volunteer Moderator

2023-02-18T23:47:59.3133333+00:00

Agree, the subscriptions through VL - https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/sql-server/sql-server-2019-pricing

And the wording does make it sound like it's compatible with Hybrid Use Benefit in Azure for the SQL licenses. At least that's how I read it - your best bet would be to get your CSP to reach out to Microsoft to confirm and get it in writing for reference. Hybrid Use Benefit is an honor based system, but the last thing you want is to end up in a debate, if there's a licensing review

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Can I purchase SQL Server via CSP Subscription and leverage AHB for SQL Server on Azure VM

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