Software Assurance (SA) can be considered a version of software-upgrade-insurance which enables organizations to keep up with new versions at reduced rates. It is included in most Volume Licenses, but is optional with Open Licenses.
Volume Licensing is the purchasing program used when buying multiple copies of Microsoft software.
Open License is the smallest option within Volume Licensing, starting with purchases as small as 5 licenses. It is the only Volume License where Software Assurance is optional.
Benefits of SA
Benefits of Volume Licensing
* Original Equipment Manufacturers, like Dell, include Microsoft products with their machines. They are not immediately covered by SA but can be purchased within 90 days. This transforms OEM Licenses into transferable Volume Licenses.