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VMware's Drastic Switch From Processor to Core Licensing 2024: Potential for a 5X-40X Surge in Your VMware Software spend
Table of Contents
Introduction
On November 22, 2023, Broadcom made a significant impact on the IT industry by acquiring VMware for $69 billion, one of the most substantial technology transactions to date. Immediately after the acquisition was finalized, Broadcom quickly introduced significant alterations to the licensing model by ending perpetual licensing and major changes to the partner network, including how customers interact with resellers and Broadcom, as well as changes to the product packaging and bundling. This blog will cover these changes in detail, examining their effects on you as a customer. We will also provide advice on steps you can take to safeguard yourself and minimize the impact on your budgeting and licensing strategies.
Change 1 - VMware Ends Perpetual Licenses and Introduces Subscription Licensing
On December 11, 2023, VMware, now a subsidiary of Broadcom, announced a pivotal alteration in is licensing strategy, ceasing the sale of new perpetual licenses. Henceforth, VMware software will be exclusively accessible via subscription models. To clarify this change, the subscription tmodel may be compared to renting a residence or leasing a car; the license is not owned, yet it remains usable as long as the subscription fees are continually paid. Conversely, a perpetual license resembles the outright purchase of a residence or automobile; the license is owned indefinitely, with typically only nominal maintenance fees required in subsequent years. This shift towards subscription models is a trend increasingly adopted by software companies in recent years. However, Broadcom's decision to suddenly entirely eliminate perpetual licenses and forbid any new perpetual acquisitions has been met with disappointment and dismay among customers.
Please see the link to the official announcement below:
https://news.vmware.com/company/vmware-by-broadcom-business-transformation
VMware Perpetual License Phase-Out: Implications for Existing Customers
Shock at Contract Expiration and Forced Migration:
Clients currently engaged in an Enterprise License Agreement (ELA) or possessing active maintenance agreements will not experience immediate impacts from this change. They are permitted to utilize their perpetual licenses until the conclusion of their agreement or the expiration of their maintenance period.
Upon the termination of an ELA or active maintenance agreement, clients will be ineligible to receive future maintenance for their existing licenses under the old model, necessitating a forced transition to VMware’s subscription-based offerings.
Furthermore, should there be a requirement to procure any new products not encompassed within the ELA or existing agreements during the term of an ELA, such acquisitions must be made under the newly established subscription model.
Escalating Cost at Renewal
This evolution is advantageous for customers who favor operational expenditure (Opex) for their purchases. However, it poses challenges for those who prefer capital expenditure (Capex) strategies, aiming for significant upfront investment followed by reduced operational costs, and for customers who are using VMware software without active maintenance.
Customers of VMware are likely to experience an increase in costs upon renewal. This escalation can be attributed to the potential forfeiture of their existing investment in perpetual licenses. Despite assurances from Broadcom regarding the availability of a trade-up path, it has not demonstrated cost neutrality. Additionally, customers may encounter a progressive increase in expenses over time, as the subscription model tends to be more costly in the long term.
Strategic Recommendations to Customers
Understand That the Landscape Has Changed for Good
It is imperative for customers to recognize that the acquisition of VMware by Broadcom has fundamentally altered the operational landscape. The prevailing paradigms have undergone a significant shift, rendering the former status quo with VMware untenable. Clients must initiate their preparatory measures promptly, adopting a strategic approach akin to that utilized in negotiations with Microsoft or Oracle.
Understand Usage and Simulate Cost and Quantity Under the New Subscription Model
Carry out a detailed review of your current usage against what you have purchased. This evaluation, called the Enterprise License Position, gives a clear picture of how you are using VMware resources compared to what you have bought. It helps in understanding your current usage, as well as estimating future usage, if you switch to a subscription model. Based on this assessment, it is advisable for customers to adjust their deployments to prevent an unexpected rise in costs.
Change 2 - Broadcom Major Changes to the Reseller/Partner Network
Furthermore, alongside the transition from perpetual licensing to subscription-based models, Broadcom has implemented substantial modifications to its partner/reseller network. These changes could significantly alter your interactions with VMware.
Broadcom's Strategic Shift in Eliminating Resellers for Strategic Accounts: Broadcom has initiated a notable strategic shift by opting to directly oversee its major VMware accounts (2000 as per unofficial estimates), diverging from its prior approach. This repositions partners, who played a crucial role in the management of these accounts, to a sidelined status. Broadcom is now designating substantial accounts as Strategic Accounts, and will engage with them directly. Consequently, entities recognized as Strategic Accounts will no longer have the liberty to procure through their resellers, but will instead be obligated to conduct transactions directly with Broadcom.
Narrowing of Reseller Network: Broadcom has decided to reduce the number of its resellers, especially eliminating small ones. This change will greatly affect smaller businesses because they will no longer be able to sell Broadcom products through their current reseller. They will need to find and work with a larger reseller instead.
Consequences of Partner Alterations for Customers:
Direct Interaction With Broadcom and Increase in Cost: Broadcom is making changes that will reduce the support and incentives previously provided by resellers, especially for large or strategic accounts. This means that instead of receiving personalized support from resellers, these accounts will have to deal directly with Broadcom. This shift could result in the loss of discounts due to Broadcom's tough negotiating stance. Moreover, without a reseller acting as an intermediary, there's a higher chance of audits. If Broadcom's sales staff finds the terms of a deal unsatisfactory or decides to examine an account closely, they may be more likely to nominate the customer for a software licensing audit.
For smaller customers, this adjustment will likely lead to increased costs, as they will now need to engage with larger resellers. These bigger entities may not place as much emphasis on their relationship or exert the same effort to secure discounts that smaller resellers previously managed to obtain.
Guidance for Customers on How to Navigate This Reseller Change:
For small customers, verify whether your current reseller remains within the Broadcom network. If not, initiate efforts to build connections with a reputable reseller.
For large customers, prepare for direct negotiations with Broadcom. Begin preparations for VMware/Broadcom discussions several months prior to your contract's expiration. Consider enlisting third-party assistance, such as LDS, which can aid in comprehending the alterations, educating your internal management, analyzing your current and future consumption and costs, benchmarking these costs, and facilitating negotiation and adaptation to this new standard.
Change 3 - VMware Draconian Product Packaging/Bundling Changes!
In conjunction with the transition from perpetual licensing to subscription models and the consolidation of resellers and partners, a significant simplification and consolidation in product packaging was also unveiled. The array of stock-keeping units (SKUs) has been streamlined, resulting in the reduction to four primary SKUs: 1) VMware Cloud Foundation, 2) VMware vSphere Foundation, 3) VMware Standard, and 4) VMware Essentials.
Let’s delve into the landscape of VMware’s product offerings:
- VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF):
- vSphere Enterprise Plus
- vSAN Enterprise (1TiB per core) Not to be confused with TB (TeraByte) which is a different metric
- Tanzu Kubernetes Grid
- SDDC Manager
- HCX Enterprise
- NSX Enterprise Plus
- Aria Operations
- Aria Automation
- Aria Operations Enterprise
- Select Support
- Site Reliability Engineering
- VMware vSphere Foundation (VVF):
- vSphere Enterprise Plus
- vSAN Enterprise (100 GiB per core) Not to be confused with GegaByte GB
- Tanzu Kubernetes Grid
- Aria Operations
Feature difference between VCF and VVF
- vSphere Standard
- vSphere Standard
- vCenter Standard
- vSphere Essential Plus Kit
- vSphere Essentials
- vCenter Essentials Plus
- Limitations
- Maximum of 3 hosts w/up to 96 Cores
Perspectives on the Recent Packaging Changes:
- This transformation is favorable for individuals fully committed to utilizing VMware; however, it poses disadvantages for customers who do not employ the complete suite of products, such as Aria/NSX.
- The implementation of product bundling is anticipated to lead to a price augmentation ranging from two to five times for all customers, attributable to the financial implications of acquiring these bundles.
- The bundling strategy is likely to culminate in the underutilization of software, resulting in resources being expended on unused software.
- VMware aims to incentivize customers to adopt more products from its suite, potentially altering bundle offerings or introducing premium versions of these products in the future to extract additional revenue from clients.
LDS Recommendations in Handling This Product Bundling
Comprehend Actual Utilization and Project Future Consumption: Clients are encouraged to ascertain both their present and anticipated future utilization at the SKU level, and to conduct a comparative analysis of current versus future costs. Leveraging this analysis, customers should negotiate discounts with VMware/Broadcom.
Elevate This Matter to the Level of Executive Management: VMware renewal is no longer a task the infrastructure team can manage on its own. Comprehending the alterations and devising either a temporary or prolonged strategy now requires the attention and decision-making of either the Chief Information Officer (CIO) or another high-ranking executive.
Investigate Substitute Strategies: It is advisable to examine other virtualization solutions that may present a more economical option, especially those characterized by stable pricing structures and negligible concealed expenses. Furthermore, it is anticipated that the future will be marked by escalating prices, a decline in development and customer support, intensified sales representative tactics, and rigorous software compliance audits.
In discussions with our clientele, the following alternatives have been mentioned:
- Transitioning to cloud services such as Azure, AWS, or GCP
- Exploring Microsoft Hyper-V
- Evaluating Nautanix
- Exploring Verge.io
- Investigating Proxmox
- Transitioning to Physical Servers
Engage in Strategic Negotiations: Upon subscription renewal, it is advisable to enter into assertive negotiations with VMware to uncover possible concessions. Benchmark your agreement to ascertain the standard discounts currently provided by Broadcom and recognize the shift in dynamics as you are now interacting with a representative from Broadcom, rather than the familiar VMware representative.
Conclusion
In summary, Broadcom has implemented significant alterations to VMware's packaging, licensing model, and reseller network. These changes are poised to deeply affect your association with VMware. It is advisable for clients to recognize that the operating framework has fundamentally transformed and to take the necessary measures to comprehend their usage, and to prepare for extensive and forceful negotiations with VMware. Additionally, it is imperative for this matter to be escalated to the level of Chief Information Officer (CIO) and to devise a strategy for assessing alternative Hypervisor Technologies. Should there be a lack of expertise internally, or a requirement for an external consultant to provide enlightenment on these modifications, assess your actual usage, project your future VMware cost, and explore alternative options, then please do not hesitate to contact Mark Thaver at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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2024 Expert Guide to Oracle VirtualBox Licensing: Navigating Free and Paid Editions for Businesses and Effectively Addressing Oracle Sales Inquiries
It is imperative for businesses to thoroughly grasp the complexities involved in the licensing of Oracle VM VirtualBox, a product ingeniously designed to draw in users with its freely accessible downloads and initial no-cost use cases while harboring intricate stipulations and speed traps for corporate use. Oracle employs a distinct and assertive sales methodology for this product, focusing heavily on compliance. The licensing intricacies of Oracle VM VirtualBox, marked by their complexity and potential pitfalls, necessitate a precise understanding and strict adherence by businesses to avoid significant financial repercussions. This article delves into the nuances of the licensing processes with a particular focus on the critical distinctions between free and paid licenses. The information presented is pertinent not only to individual users for personal projects, but also to organizations operating on a more expansive scale.
What is Oracle VirtualBox?
Oracle VirtualBox is a program that lets you run several different operating systems on one computer. You can install it on computers with Intel or AMD processors that use Windows, macOS, Linux, or Oracle Solaris. With VirtualBox, you can set up several virtual machines, and each one can run its own operating system, separate from the computer's central system. This is especially useful for software developers who need to test their programs on various operating systems, and for security professionals who want to check applications in a safe, separate space.
What is the Licensing Model for Oracle Virtual Box?
Oracle VirtualBox has two main types of licenses:
Open-Source GNU General Public License (GPL) Version 2: This is for the basic version of VirtualBox. It's free for anyone, including individuals and businesses. You can download, use, and change the software without paying. If you share a version of VirtualBox that you've modified, you must also share it for free under this same license.
Personal Use and Evaluation License (PUEL): This license is for the Oracle VM VirtualBox Extension Pack, which adds extra features like support for USB 2.0 and 3.0, VirtualBox RDP, disk encryption, and NVMe. You can use this for free if it's for personal use or trial it for 30 days, however, if you're using it in a business or for commercial purposes then you must first purchase a license. The PUEL is not open source, meaning you can't freely distribute or modify the Extension Pack.
For more detailed information on the VirtualBox Personal Use and Evaluation License (PUEL), you can visit the official VirtualBox PUEL page.
Snippet from PULE Commercial Use fine print restriction
https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/VirtualBox_PUEL
Oracle VM VirtualBox License Pricing Models & Costs
We've broken down the cost and types of pricing for Oracle VM VirtualBox and given some examples to show how this might affect companies thinking about using Oracle VM VirtualBox. Oracle offers VirtualBox through a traditional license and maintenance payment method. There are two main ways to pay for it: based on the number of individual users (Named Workstation User) or each CPU socket in the servers (per Socket licensing). The Named Workstation User option is better when each person using VirtualBox is known and has their own set up. The per Socket option works best for server setups where VirtualBox runs on physical servers that have one or more CPU sockets. Now let’s review each of these licensing models in detail.
Named Workstation User
This pricing plan is for specific people or individual users in a company. Every person who uses the software, whether directly or not, needs to have a license. However, you can't buy just a few licenses; the minimum number you have to buy is 100. For each person using the software (each Named User), it costs $50, and there's an additional $11 per year for support.
From Oracle
Named Workstation User is defined as an individual authorized by you to use the programs which are installed on a single server or multiple servers, regardless of whether the individual is actively using the programs at any given time.
For the purposes of Oracle VM VirtualBox Enterprise, Named Workstation User licensing may only be applied to single-socket devices where only one named user is using Oracle VM VirtualBox Enterprise or is connecting to the virtual machines on Oracle VM VirtualBox Enterprise. A non-human operated device will be counted as a named workstation user in addition to all individuals authorized to use the programs, if such devices can access the programs. If multiplexing hardware or software (e.g., a TP monitor or a web server product) is used, this number must be measured at the multiplexing front end. Automated batching of data from computer to computer is permitted.
Socket Licensing
Oracle charges for socket licensing based on each CPU. It costs $1,000 for each socket license, and there is an annual maintenance fee of $220. Unlike some other plans, you have no minimum number of sockets to license.
Physical CPU(s) is defined as each monolithic integrated circuit responsible for executing a System’s Oracle Linux, Oracle VM or Oracle Verrazzano programs. A monolithic integrated circuit with multiple cores or hyperthreading is counted as a single Physical CPU when determining the total number of Physical CPUs in a System.
Physical CPU Pair is defined as a set of two Physical CPUs.
Socket is defined as a slot that houses a chip (or a multi-chip module) which contains a collection of one or more cores. Regardless of the number of cores, each chip (or multi-chip module) shall count as a single socket. All occupied sockets on which the Oracle program is installed and/or running must be licensed.
Pricing Example
Continuing with the discussion, we will delve into specific examples that demonstrate how these licensing models are applied in certain scenarios and how the costs are structured.
Example 1 – An organization with 100 specific users needing access to VirtualBox
In this example, the organization would need to purchase 100 NUP licenses since that’s the minimum required. The total cost would include the license and support costs, amounting to $6,100.
Example 2 – An organization that wants to purchase 20 CPU Sockets.
These tables serve as a simplified example to demonstrate how the licensing and costs are structured for Oracle VirtualBox. When planning to purchase licenses, it’s essential to consider both the initial and ongoing support costs to understand the total expenditure over the software’s lifecycle.
Difference Between Base and Extension Pack
The Oracle VM VirtualBox comes in two main variants:
- Base Package
- Extension Package
Specific licensing terms govern each and offer different levels of functionality.
Base Package
The Base Pack for Oracle VM VirtualBox is a free, open-source software under the GNU General Public License version 2 (GPL v2). This means you can use, examine, share, and change the software for free if you follow the license's rules. Its main features include:
Extension Package
The Extension Pack adds extra capabilities to the basic VirtualBox software. It lets you use advanced features like USB 2.0 and 3.0, remote desktop support, and disk encryption. This pack is free for personal, educational, or evaluation use only. For business purposes, you must buy a commercial license. This is the most common reason we see for Virtual Box non-compliance.
It is crucial for users and organizations to understand the difference between both variants to ensure compliance with the licensing terms and to choose the correct package based on their needs. For more specific information on the licensing terms and the features provided by each package, check the comparison table below, which summarizes both subscriptions and their features.
When Do You Need a Commercial License for Oracle VirtualBox?
Using the Basic Version:
You don't need a commercial license if you're using the basic VirtualBox package without any extra features.
Using the Extra Features (Extension Pack):
For personal use or trying it out: You don't need a commercial license if you're using the extra features just for yourself or to test them, as long as you stop after 30 days.
For schools: Teachers and students don't need a commercial license if they use the extra features as part of their schoolwork.
For business use: You must get a commercial license if you use the extra features for any business-related work, no matter if it's a company, organization, or government office.
Evaluation Period Overrun
A commercial license must be purchased if the usage exceeds the 30-day evaluation period with the Extension Pack.
Oracle VirtualBox Audit Process
Let’s summarize what you can expect from an Oracle VirtualBox Audit.
- Soft Audits: Oracle doesn’t do formal, heavy-handed GLAC audits for VirtualBox. Instead, they conduct ‘soft audits’, which are less formal and are done by the offshore Virtual Box sales team.
- Audit Initiation: Audits typically start when Oracle’s system flags downloads of the VirtualBox from your company. One of the things they track is IP address.
When Oracle Reaches Out: If you hear from Oracle about your Virtual Pack usage, it’s likely they are seeing end-user downloads and want to check if you’re compliant with their licensing.
How Did This End up in My Locked Environment: Sadly, this software is easily accessible for free download. Additionally, many developers and administrators, who usually have admin rights on computers and servers, are accustomed to using this software in their personal or academic settings. They may not be aware that while it's free for personal use, it requires a license in a commercial environment, leading them to install it. Oracle promotes this by allowing free downloads of the software, but then they monitor these downloads and pursue companies after it's installed in their systems.
- Best Next Steps: If Oracle comes knocking, it’s advisable to consult with licensing experts. Securing professional advice can save you hassle, especially if sorting through licensing isn’t your thing. They are good at guiding you through the audit and can often help wrap it up without you needing to spend more on extra licenses. In our experience, the cost of hiring professional help far outweighs the fines and drama caused by Virtual Box compliance.
The Oracle VirtualBox Sales Team are known for their proactive and assertive approach when it comes to software compliance and can be very persistent once they have contacted you. This is part of Oracle’s aggressive strategy to allow free software use before generating revenue for these products with compliance audits, especially once used in a commercial setting.
Oracle VirtualBox Licensing Compliance: What Should Customers Do?
Check for VirtualBox With an ELP: Customers should use an Effective License Position (ELP) to see if they have Oracle VirtualBox installed. This helps figure out where and how many VirtualBox, and if the Extension Pack, is installed. If you’re unsure how to do this, Licensing Data Solutions can help by showing you where VirtualBox is installed on your devices and whether it's the basic version or the paid Extension Pack. If Oracle checks this for you then they might not be willing to help fix the problems or suggest cheaper options, and could push for the most expensive commercial/contractual solution.
Figure Out What Edition You're Using: Customers need to check their systems to see if they're using just the basic VirtualBox or if they've also installed the Extension Pack. This is important because the Extension Pack has additional rules and in some cases might need a paid license.
Clean Up Your System: If you have the Extension Pack or certain VirtualBox features you're not using then consider removing them. Uninstalling software you don’t need can help avoid problems and costs related to licenses you’re not using.
Buy Licenses Before Oracle Comes Knocking: Don't wait for Oracle to audit you because you will be hit with back penalties. If you need a certain license for using VirtualBox, get it early. This helps you stay legal and avoid fines or issues caused by license problems. It's good planning to buy the licenses you need beforehand, especially if you move from using VirtualBox for personal to business purposes or if your trial period has expired.
Prevent Future Unauthorized Downloads:
To stop unauthorized downloads of VirtualBox in the future, take these steps: First, block access to these websites: https://www.virtualbox.org/wiki/Downloads and https://www.oracle.com/virtualization/technologies/vm/downloads/virtualbox-downloads.html
This will prevent downloading from these sources. Next, create a policy within your company that explains the differences between the free and paid versions of VirtualBox. This will help your staff understand what is allowed and what isn't. Also, implement controls to stop people from installing VirtualBox without the proper approval. Finally, make it a regular practice to review your software systems to make sure that VirtualBox hasn't been installed without proper permission. This will help maintain control over software use and ensure compliance with licensing rules.
FAQs: Oracle VirtualBox Licensing
Does Oracle track VirtualBox downloads?
Yes, Oracle tracks all VirtualBox downloads. If you've been contacted by them, it's highly likely that someone in your company has downloaded VirtualBox.
Is Oracle GLAC carrying out audits on VirtualBox?
No, Oracle GLAC doesn't conduct audits on Virtual Box. However, the Oracle Virtual Box sales teams make their own compliance checks aka Soft Audits, especially if they notice downloads coming from your company.
Is VirtualBox free for business use?
The basic version of VirtualBox, without the Extension Pack, is free for businesses. However, the version that includes the Extension Pack is not free for enterprise use, though it is free for personal use. Businesses need to either remove any unauthorized installations or buy the required licenses. Often, companies mistakenly believe all versions of VirtualBox are free and are surprised to discover the Extension Pack installed in their systems.
What editions of VirtualBox are available?
Currently, Oracle VM VirtualBox provides two main editions:
- Base Package: This edition is free and open source, distributed under GNU General Public License (GPL).
- Extension Package: Offers additional features and may require the purchase of commercial licenses, depending on how it is used.
What is the minimum number of Oracle VirtualBox Enterprise licenses I can purchase?
If you're going with the Named Workstation User option, you must purchase licenses for a minimum of 100 users. In the case of socket-based licensing, the least you can purchase is a license for one socket.
If I ignore the Oracle Virtual Box team, will they stop contacting me?
No, they won't. The Oracle Virtual Box sales team is known for being very persistent; we internally call them honey badgers. If you don't respond, they'll likely start contacting your colleagues and move up the chain of command and start reaching out to your executive level of management like CIO, CFO and CEO.
I've been approached by the sales team from Oracle Virtual Box, what should I do?
You should consult with an expert company like Licensing Data Solutions. They can assist you in figuring out where Virtual Box is installed, help you understand the difference between free and paid versions, optimize your use of the software, and even draft emails for you to send to the Oracle Virtual Box sales team to ensure you achieve the best outcome.
We haven't installed Oracle Virtual Box, so how did it end up in our system?
Sadly, this software is easily accessible for free download. Additionally, many developers and administrators, who usually have admin rights on computers and servers, are accustomed to using this software in their personal or academic settings. They may not be aware that while it's free for personal use, it requires a license in a commercial environment, leading them to install it. Oracle promotes this by allowing free downloads of the software, but then they monitor these downloads and pursue companies after it's installed in their systems.
Conclusion
In simple terms, Oracle's VirtualBox is a well designed mouse trap by Oracle to make money. They attract people with free and easy downloads, but then there are hidden details and fine print in the licensing that can end up costing companies money. Oracle is also aggressive in selling this, especially after it's already seeped into customers' commercial environments. To sum up this blog post, it's really important for businesses to follow the rules for using Oracle's VirtualBox. Even though VirtualBox isn't as popular as it used to be, not following its licensing rules can result in big fines. If you're not sure how to tell the difference between what's free and what's not, or if you don't understand VirtualBox's complicated licensing, you should contact Licensing Data Solutions (LDS) at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
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Understanding Licensing and Cost Shift from SAP Solution Manager (SolMan) to Cloud ALM (CALM)
Understanding Licensing and Cost Shift from SAP Solution Manager (SolMan) to Cloud ALM (CALM)
Demystifying IBM Cloud Pak and premier on Cloud PAK Licensing in 2023
Table of Contents
Comprehensive Guide to SAP Indirect Access and How to measure Digital Access in 2023
Introduction
In the ever-evolving world of SAP software, indirect access has become a critical consideration for businesses when it comes to licensing, and it’s even more problematic if a customer is undergoing an enhanced audit or has received a SAP indirect access query from SAP sales. SAP has also weaponized indirect access to create leverage forcing customers to move to S4/HANA or RISE/GROW. The 2017 SAP v Diageo court case highlighted the issue of indirect access and under-licensing. Diageo, the defendant, faced significant fines for not having sufficient licenses for their indirect use of SAP software.
Oracle Java Licensing Changes in 2023: Navigating the Costly New Terrain of Java Employee Universal Subscription
Introduction
Oracle’s recent licensing changes regarding Java have caused significant concern among organizations as they can potentially impact licensing costs by 3-5X. In this blog post, we will explore the background of the Oracle Java licensing change, discuss its implications for customers, and provide recommendations to help navigate these changes effectively.
Oracle's Java Licensing Changes 2023: Optimizing Java Without Cutting a Check to Oracle
Introduction
Java is a programming language and computing platform that was initially developed by Sun Microsystems in the early 1990s. It was designed to be platform-independent, allowing applications to run on any device or operating system. Java remained free and open source for many years resulting in Java being installed everywhere in your environment. In 2019, Oracle introduced a new per-year subscription licensing model for Java, which requires organizations to pay for commercial use of Oracle Java.
SAP Enhanced Vs SAP Basic Software Licensing Audit
Navigating the SAP Licensing Audit Maze: Understanding Basic and Enhanced Software Licensing Audits
In the dynamic landscape of SAP licensing, maintaining compliance and ensuring licensing precision are paramount for organizations. The intricacies of SAP audits can be daunting; thus, understanding the various types of SAP audits becomes crucial. In this blog post, we will demystify this complex subject by delving into the two main types of SAP audits: the basic audit and the enhanced audit, along with their underlying mechanisms.
Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect SAP HANA License for Your Business
Introduction
The trend of organizations shifting towards the SAP HANA Database has gained considerable momentum in recent times. Nevertheless, during this transition, it's essential for customers to comprehend the intricacies of SAP's licensing policies, discern the different editions and their licensing constraints, and curtail the potential risks of licensing non-compliance associated with the use of the HANA Database. Of late, we've observed SAP and their auditing organization actively interacting with customers to verify HANA database licensing usage, placing emphasis on functionalities and restrictions. In this blog post, we aim to delve into the various SAP HANA editions and the optimization strategies at their disposal, empowering organizations to make choices that best align with their specific requirements.
What is SAP HANA Database?
Decoding SAP FUE: A Comprehensive Guide to Full Usage Equivalents
Definition of SAP FUE
SAP Full Use Equivalent (FUE) is a unit of measurement utilized by SAP to grant licenses for its S/4 HANA Cloud applications. It signifies the permission given to users to access certain solution features within the S/4HANA Cloud. SAP FUE establishes a consistent framework for licensing, assuring that companies have the appropriate level of access for their users, tailored to their unique requirements. In today's context, gaining a solid understanding of FUE is essential as this is the favored metric for SAP, particularly with S/4 HANA.
Different Types of FUEs:
SAP FUE encompasses distinct types that cater to varying user requirements:
- SAP S/4HANA for Advanced Use: This FUE type grants users full access to the S/4HANA Cloud application, enabling them to create and modify data, run reports, and utilize its complete range of business processes. It is typically assigned to users who require extensive functionality and plays a key role in managing critical business operations. One user is equal to one SAP FUE. This category has the lowest compliance risk but the highest over-allocation risk.
The table below represents the S/4HANA cloud roles & responsibilities for Advanced Use.
Source: https://assets.cdn.sap.com/agreements/product-policy/css/service-specifications/sap-s4hana-cloud-service-use-descriptions-english-v1-2021.pdf
- SAP S/4HANA for Core Use: This FUE type is intended for users who require limited access to the S/4HANA Cloud application, allowing them to view data, run reports, and engage in basic business processes. It is suitable for users needing access to specific information or who perform routine tasks without the need for extensive functionality. Five core users make up one FUE. This category has a medium compliance risk and medium over-allocation risk.
The table below represents the S/4HANA cloud roles & responsibilities for Core Use.
- SAP S/4HANA for Self-Service Use: This FUE type is designed for those using the S/4HANA Cloud application through self-service portals, offering access to data viewing, report generation, and basic business processes. It caters to users who primarily consume information or interact with the application through predefined self-service capabilities. It is also used to display and approve use rights. 30 Self-Service Users make up one FUE. This category has the highest compliance risk but the lowest over-allocation risk. Customers should carry out internal audits or hire a third party like LDS to regularly check for risk with this allocation. The table below represents the S/4HANA cloud roles & responsibilities for Self-Service Use.
The table below represents the S/4HANA cloud roles & responsibilities for Self-Service Use.
How to Calculate SAP FUEs (Full Usage Equivalents)?
The calculation of SAP FUE uses a weights mechanism with specific ratios assigned to each FUE type. These ratios provide a standardized approach to determine the number of FUEs required for licensing:
1 FUE- 0.5 SAP S/4HANA Cloud, Developer Access
1 FUE = 1 SAP S/4HANA for Advanced Use
1 FUE = 5 SAP S/4HANA for Core Use
1 FUE = 30 SAP S/4HANA for Self-Service Use
Here is an example of the SAP FUEs calculation:
For example, if an organization has 100 users who require advanced use, it will need 100 FUEs. However, if the organization has 100 users who require core use, it will need 20 FUEs (100 users/5 users per core FUE).
Total number of users = 180
Total FUEs required = 111
Minimum Requirements and Applicable Products
SAP imposes minimum purchase requirements on FUEs. These requirements vary depending on the specific product and licensing agreement. Organizations should review their agreements to determine the minimum FUE count applicable to their S/4HANA Cloud products.
The table below gives a clear indication of the minimum purchase value for the SAP S/4HANA Cloud products
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Using SAP FUE:
Advantages:
- Adaptability in Reallocation Minimizes Shelfware: SAP FUE facilitates the reallocation of licenses throughout the contract period, empowering businesses to maximize their license use, consequently minimizing shelfware.
- Uniform User Access Measurement: SAP FUE introduces a uniform strategy to quantify user access, eliminating the need for tracking individual user categories.
Disadvantages:
- Constraints on User Reduction: One of the downsides of SAP FUE is its inability to lower the user count beneath the minimum purchase required for the contract period, particularly during economic downturns where a company may need to decrease the number of users. As such, organizations must prudently plan and project usage and negotiate appropriate contract terms.
- Increased Risk of Non-compliance: This introduces an extra layer of complexity in the calculation for end users and SAP administrators who generally are not experts in license counting. The pre-defined FUE types might not align perfectly with certain users' specific access needs. Users may mistakenly believe certain user populations fall under lower use rights and count them as such, only to discover in an audit that they need full user rights.
- Possible Over assignment due to This "Novel" Weightage System: Many SAP end-user administrators have a mindset centered around users, not weightages. Moreover, since this system is relatively new, many are unaware of its existence. As a result, we've observed customers struggling to understand the concept of differing weightages and simplifying it to a one-to-one correspondence of one FUE to one user. This misinterpretation leads to an unnecessary overallocation of licenses.
In conclusion, understanding and managing SAP Full Use Equivalents (FUE) can significantly enhance an organization's ability to utilize SAP S/4HANA Cloud applications effectively. By identifying the distinct types of FUEs, determining user needs, and calculating the appropriate licensing requirements, businesses can ensure that they have the precise access levels they need. Nevertheless, SAP FUE does present certain challenges, including risks of non-compliance and overallocation due to the misunderstanding of its weightage system. Therefore, it's crucial to proceed with an informed and strategic approach. By partnering with Licensing Data Solutions, organizations can navigate these complexities with ease, achieve optimal SAP licensing, reduce costs, and maintain compliance. Most importantly, they can maximize the value derived from their S/4HANA Cloud investments. For any assistance in this regard, feel free to reach out to us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Also, read more on this:
Unleash the Power of SAP Licensing: Top 5 Strategies for Substantial Savings
Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect SAP HANA License for Your Business
SAP Enhanced Vs SAP Basic Software Licensing Audit
Please check our SAP Licensing Services
Unleash the Power of SAP Licensing: Top 5 Strategies for Substantial Savings
Brace yourselves because SAP has recently dropped a game-changer! SAP has officially announced a 3.3% support cost increase, catching many by surprise. With fluctuating economic scenarios, are you seeking intelligent ways to enhance your SAP investment efficiency? If so, the secret lies in effective SAP license management.
In this blog post, we'll unpack five powerful strategies to help you unlock the full potential of your SAP licenses while reducing superfluous costs. By adopting a strategic licensing approach, you can trim expenses by paying only for what you genuinely need.
- Dive Deep into Demand/Consumption Analysis
The first significant stride toward SAP license optimization is a meticulous demand/consumption analysis, which we lovingly call ELP (Enterprise License Position). By mapping license allocation with actual usage, you can streamline your licensing strategy and magnify the return on your SAP investments. This in-depth evaluation involves an exhaustive review of your current license inventory, a robust understanding of the various license types, and a careful assessment of your license utilization. Notably, LDS found that, on average, 30% of the SAP software licenses purchased by customers are unused, which presents a goldmine of potential savings that can be right-sized or exchanged for the funding of new initiatives.
- Conduct a Compliance Check and Grasp Your Indirect Access Risk
Indirect access risk, the potential licensing violations resulting from users accessing SAP systems via interfaces or third-party applications, looms in all software spaces. Regular compliance checks are indispensable in managing your SAP licenses effectively. These checks offer visibility into your indirect access risk, enabling you to proactively nip unnecessary licensing expenses in the bud and ensure compliance with licensing agreements. You should tackle this risk proactively and purchase digital access documents on your terms instead of SAP’s, avoiding unpleasant surprises and back penalties in a SAP audit.
- Sweep Out Inactive and Unrequired User Licenses
Rooting out inactive and unneeded user licenses is vital in boosting the efficiency of your SAP investments. Routine license audits can help pinpoint licenses that have become redundant due to changes in user roles or business procedures. Establishing a clear understanding of license usage across your organization is critical during this cleanup process. Upon initiating reviews, we've noticed a fascinating pattern. Many of our clients are initially confident, as assured by their SAP admins, in the robustness of their processes and the absence of inactive users. However, once the review concludes, it's a regular occurrence to discover that over 20% of users are, in fact, inactive.
- Spot and Eliminate Shelfware Software Licenses and Support
'Shelfware' denotes unused or inadequately used software licenses and support agreements, leading to unnecessary expenses. SAP operates differently from other providers such as Microsoft, among others, where your Enterprise Agreement (EA) maintenance is typically renegotiated every three years. With SAP, upon purchase, you are instantly signed up for lifetime maintenance until you decide to terminate it. Over time, even if a product is no longer in use, clients frequently continue paying for support due to lack of awareness caused by numerous name changes or fear of discontinuing if the product is still in use. Here, a thorough in-house or third-party assessment of your SAP software suite can aid in discovering these inactive licenses and understanding the evolution of various product name changes. Collaborating with licensing professionals can expedite the process of spotting and terminating shelfware licenses, yielding substantial cost savings.
- Explore the Potential of Third-Party Support Providers
When contemplating third-party support, examine your existing support agreements and compare them with different providers. Consider factors like service quality, response time, and cost savings. Transitioning to reputable third-party support like Remini Street or Spinnaker can substantially reduce costs while efficiently maintaining your SAP systems. Benefits may include proactive system monitoring, performance optimization, and access to an expansive knowledge base, often with a significant cost reduction on the support bill.
Final Thoughts
At Licensing Data Solutions (LDS), we adopt the same tools like SLAW, LMBI, USMM, etc., as well as the methodology that SAP uses during an enhanced audit to assess demand and consumption needs. Remember, SAP investment optimization goes beyond the software—it demands a strategic approach to licensing. You can maximize the value derived from your SAP investments by evaluating your licenses, cleaning up unnecessary ones, understanding indirect access risk, and exploring third-party support. Reach out to Licensing Data Solutions (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.) to navigate the complexities of SAP licensing and drive substantial cost efficiencies. Command your SAP investments today and uncover the full potential of your software while cutting down on unnecessary expenses.
Also read more on this:
Decoding Sap Fue: A Comprehensive Guide To Full Usage Equiv
Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect SAP HANA License for Your Business
SAP Enhanced Vs SAP Basic Software Licensing Audit
Please check our SAP Licensing Services
Comprehensive list of Software Vendors and their Year End Dates
| Vendor | Fiscal Year-End |
|---|---|
| Adobe | November |
| Amazon | December |
| Autodesk | January |
| BMC | March |
| Broadcom | October |
| Cisco | July |
| Citrix | December |
| Compuware | March |
| Dell | January |
| December | |
| HPE | October |
| IBM | December |
| JAMF | December |
| Java (Oracle) | May |
| RedHat (IBM) | December |
| Infor | April |
| Informatica | December |
| Micro Focus | October |
| Microsoft | June |
| Nautanix | July |
| Oracle | May |
| Salesforce | January |
| SAP | December |
| SAS | December |
| ServiceNow | December |
| Software AG | December |
| Symantec | March |
| VMware | January |
| Workday | January |
Java - Think it is Free, Not Anymore!
Everyone has Java installed in their environment. It is the most popular language deployed with two billion installs. You might not know that Java was created by Sun in 1991 and released as a free product with the promise of “write once and run anywhere.” This resulted in Java being deployed on a multitude of devices such as servers, desktops, laptops, and mobile devices. Oracle purchased Sun in 2010 and then in January 2019 made Java fee-based (any commercial use became fee-based). What does this mean for you?