SQL Server licensing is complex (Core vs Server+CAL) and frequently under-licensed. This is a top audit finding.
No on-premises SQL Server
Small SQL footprint — well-documented
Significant SQL — licensing uncertain
Large SQL estate — multiple editions, virtualised
SQL virtualisation licensing is extremely complex
Question 5 of 8
🖥️
Do you run Windows Server in VMware or Hyper-V virtual environments?
Windows Server licensing in virtual environments depends on edition, host cores, and VM count. Misconfiguration is common.
No virtualised Windows Server
Hyper-V — properly licensed with Datacenter/Standard
VMware — Windows Server licensing not recently reviewed
Large virtualised estate — licensing uncertain
Question 6 of 8
📅
When is your next EA true-up or anniversary date?
EA true-ups occur annually on the EA anniversary. Surprises at true-up time are expensive.
More than 6 months away
3-6 months away
1-3 months away
Imminent or overdue
Question 7 of 8
📜
Have you used all Software Assurance (SA) benefits you are entitled to?
SA benefits (AHUB, disaster recovery rights, training vouchers, planning services) are often unused but paid for.
Yes — all SA benefits actively utilised
Some — using major benefits like AHUB
Minimal — only basic SA benefits used
None — we pay for SA but use no benefits
SA typically costs 25% of licence value annually
Question 8 of 8
🛡️
Have you conducted an internal licence compliance review in the last 12 months?
Regular self-audits identify gaps before Microsoft does. Microsoft conducts formal audits through third parties like Deloitte and EY.
Yes — within the last 12 months
12-24 months ago
More than 2 years ago
Never conducted a compliance review
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