Microsoft Software Assurance FAQ

Microsoft is committed to regularly evaluating the Software Assurance support offerings to help ensure that customers receive the most value for their technology investments.

No. There are no plans to raise the price of Software Assurance.

Yes. Existing Software Assurance customers are eligible for all of the new and enhanced benefits. With the exception of 24x7 Problem Resolution Support, existing customers who meet the eligibility criteria for the new benefits may take advantage of those benefits when they become available. Current customers can choose to keep their current Problem Resolution Support benefit or upgrade to the new 24x7 Problem Resolution Support.

All Software Assurance benefits terminate with expiration of Software Assurance coverage.

Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs is a Windows-based operating system solution, optimized for older PCs, that enables customers to upgrade their operating system infrastructure. It is designed for customers who need to upgrade their operating system to address security and manageability concerns but who are not in a position to purchase new hardware. Customers with Software Assurance for Microsoft Windows Professional will be eligible to run Windows Fundamentals for Legacy PCs in lieu of the licensed version of Microsoft Windows Professional.

Yes. Eligibility for these new and enhanced benefits will be reflected on the Microsoft Volume License Services (MVLS) Web site in customer MVLS accounts when the benefits become available in March 2006.

The Information Work Solution Services are predefined, repeatable services offerings developed by Microsoft that partners can deliver to their customers to help customers get more from their productivity applications and enable them to take full advantage of the capabilities of their IT infrastructure.

You can find a provider in your area by searching the Office System Solutions Directory Provider Listing.

If you cannot locate a provider to deliver your Desktop Deployment Planning Services, Information Work Value Discovery Workshop, or Information Work Architecture Design Session benefits, contact your local Software Assurance Support Center. You can find contact information on the Microsoft Volume Licensing Support page.

For Software Assurance customers:

•	Program Annual Fee: The annual fee is included in the Software Assurance agreement, but customers must pay for the first hotfix.
•	Hotfix payment: Each hotfix (including first one) is provided as needed for a fee.
•	Sign-up requirements: • Customers can sign-up for an Extended Hotfix Support agreement at any time. • Customers can enroll when a hotfix is needed. • A Premier or Essential Support contract is a prerequisite.

For Non–Software Assurance customers:

Contact your regional Support Center for assistance.