Organizations that have not yet purchased Java may expect to face an Oracle Java Audit in the next few years.
Because in 2023, Oracle introduced significant changes to its Java licensing model.
On January 24, 2023, Oracle released a new Oracle Java SE Universal Subscription Global Price List, stating it will no longer sell Oracle Java SE subscriptions on a Named User Plus or Processor license model.
This shift has implications for clients using Java on laptops/desktops and for licensable deployments on servers, including virtual ones.
These changes could potentially increase your bill, making understanding the new Java licensing landscape crucial.
If your organization has received an e-mail from Oracle about Java,
Read our “Java audit” guide before responding.
Updated Sept 2023 – Based on recent experiences, we understand that Oracle doesn’t take no for an answer. If you ignore Oracle e-mails, they may contact your CEO, CIO, or CFO. We put together a 7-step plan for you to execute.
Oracle Java Audit Begins
Since 2023, Oracle has been actively auditing customers. This is not a random process; the Oracle account team nominates customers for license audits each year.
The customers selected for audits are rarely chosen randomly.
Audits contribute significantly to Oracle’s license revenue, estimated 70% of all Oracle software license revenue stemming from license audits.
Collaboration with Third-Party Software Asset Management Tool Vendors
Oracle has collaborated with third-party software asset management tool vendors to facilitate auditing. These tools are designed to make it easier for Oracle to audit customers for Java usage.
However, it’s important to note that these helpful tools are not infallible and should be used with expert knowledge to measure Oracle licenses accurately.
Oracle Java Audit Defense Plan
When facing an Oracle Java audit, it’s crucial to have a defense plan in place.
This plan should be based on a thorough understanding of the Oracle license audit process. Here’s a customized version of the process, tailored specifically for Java audits:
- Oracle Audit Notification: Oracle will send a notification letter to your CFO/CIO or both, notifying you of their intention to perform an audit of your Oracle Java licenses.
- Audit Kick-off Meeting: During this meeting, Oracle will want to agree on a timeline for you to share all the necessary data.
- Data Sharing Oracle will provide access to a web-based license audit portal where you will be asked to answer a questionnaire about your Oracle Java usage. Alternatively, they ask you to complete a Java Server Worksheet (JSW) and run their PowerCLI tool to capture information about your virtual environments.
- Third-party tool Oracle will ask if you have a third-party software asset management tool, as Oracle has verified most to act as their audit tool. We recommend you consider your response. If you have one such tool, you have made it easier for Oracle to audit you.
- Oracle Audit Report: After the audit, Oracle will present a report outlining the worst-case scenario with the highest fees to be paid to Oracle.
- Review and Response: You will have 45 days to review your Oracle licensing and develop an Oracle audit defense plan. It’s crucial not to agree with the findings until you have had an Oracle licensing expert provide a second review of the license audit findings.
FAQs
Does Oracle have any scripts to audit Java?
No, they do not; they rely on any third-party SAM tool (verified by Oracle), and you share declaration data in Excel.
What is Oracle focusing on in the audit?
Virtual deployments, VDI, Install paths, and security patches were applied.
What is a common mistake in the audit?
Oracle will ask when Java was installed; they do this to claim retroactive fees. We recommend you leave that field out or dispute those claims.
Are all Oracle Java audits the same?
No, we see that different auditors are using different methods and tools. Some auditors also ask for Java Commercial Features, while others do not.
Call to Action
If your organization faces a Java audit, seeking expert help is crucial.
Redress Compliance’s team of Oracle licensing experts can provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the entire Oracle Java license audit process.
From initial notification to final resolution, Redress Compliance can help minimize financial exposure and ensure a fair outcome for your organization.
Redress Compliance Java Audit Defense Service
Redress Compliance offers a comprehensive Java Audit Defense Service to help organizations navigate the complexities of Oracle Java licensing audits. Our service includes:
- Java Licensing Position Assessment: We thoroughly assess your current Java licensing position. This includes determining your best and worst-case financial scenarios, giving you a clear understanding of potential financial implications.
- Java License Optimization: Before the audit begins, we work with you to optimize your Java licensing. This proactive approach can help reduce potential compliance issues and financial exposure.
- Guidance on Java Licensing Rules and Policies: Oracle’s Java licensing rules and policies can be complex and challenging to interpret. Our experts provide clear, concise guidance and interpretation to help you understand and comply with these rules and policies.
- Negotiation Assistance: Our team can assist with negotiations if you’re transitioning to the new Java license model. We leverage our expertise and experience to help you achieve high discounts, ensuring you get the best possible deal.
With Redress Compliance, you can confidently navigate Oracle Java audits, ensuring compliance while optimizing your licensing and minimizing costs.
Contact us today to get help!
