Defend against Microsoft audit claims with expertise.
Microsoft licensing is notoriously complex—and audits exploit that complexity. From SQL Server to M365, we help you navigate and defend your position.
The short answer
Microsoft licensing is notoriously complex—and audits exploit that complexity. From SQL Server to M365, we help you navigate and defend your position.
- Do not respond to a Microsoft audit notice before the scope, contract rights, and deadlines are reviewed.
- SQL Server Core Licensing: Microsoft's core-based model for SQL Server creates over-licensing traps in virtualized environments.
- Windows Server Virtualization Rights: Understanding which edition allows unlimited VMs vs. limited VMs is critical for compliance.
- M365 License Assignment: Assigning the wrong M365 SKU or having inactive licenses can trigger audit findings.
Common Microsoft audit traps we help you avoid
SQL Server Core Licensing
Microsoft's core-based model for SQL Server creates over-licensing traps in virtualized environments.
Windows Server Virtualization Rights
Understanding which edition allows unlimited VMs vs. limited VMs is critical for compliance.
M365 License Assignment
Assigning the wrong M365 SKU or having inactive licenses can trigger audit findings.
Azure Hybrid Benefit Complexity
Using on-premises licenses in Azure requires careful tracking and proper Software Assurance.
CAL vs Per-Core Confusion
Choosing between CALs and per-core licensing—and tracking CALs properly—is a common audit issue.
Office Versions & Entitlements
Legacy Office perpetual licenses vs. M365 subscriptions create entitlement confusion.
Technical experts + Real attorneys
We don't just understand Microsoft licensing—we know how to defend your position. Our partnership with Beeman & Muchmore, LLP gives you access to some of the most experienced attorneys in software contract law.
Contract-Based Defense
We defend based on your contract, not vendor policies.
Legal Partnership
Real attorneys who specialize in software licensing law.
Ready to defend your position?
- Free initial consultation
- Contract review & analysis
- Effective License Position (ELP)
- Negotiation & settlement support
Essential guides & tools
Microsoft audit defense success stories
Microsoft licensing insights
Microsoft audit questions answered
How does Microsoft conduct audits?
What triggers a Microsoft audit?
Can we use our on-premises SQL Server licenses in Azure?
What's the risk with M365 licensing?
How long do we have to respond to a Microsoft audit?
The bottom line
If you are facing a Microsoft audit: Microsoft licensing is notoriously complex—and audits exploit that complexity. From SQL Server to M365, we help you navigate and defend your position. LicenseFortress is an independent advocate — we never sell Microsoft licenses and take no vendor commissions.
- LicenseFortress is an independent software licensing advocate — we never sell vendor licenses and take no vendor commissions.
- $2.4B+ in vendor claims defended and $625M+ saved for clients.
- Coverage across Oracle, Microsoft, IBM, SAP, VMware by Broadcom, and Adobe.
- Licensing experts working alongside software contract attorneys.
Don't face a Microsoft audit alone
Get expert help from the team that's defended over $600M in audit claims with a perfect track record.
Comprehensive licensing solutions
Whether you need ongoing management, contract support, or cloud optimization—we have you covered.