How Are Desktops That Are Delivered as a Service Licensed by Microsoft?
Desktops delivered as a service by a third party provider are supported under Microsoft's Services Provider License Agreement (SPLA) using Microsoft Windows Server and Remote Desktop Services (RDS) which meets the needs of a significant range of customer scenarios. The Microsoft Windows Client Operating System software may not be used to provide a hosted client or DaaS offering, nor can any solution that uses a Windows Server based virtual machine be marketed as a Microsoft Windows Client desktop as a service. It is suggested that third party providers choosing to deliver a service of this type identify in their marketing materials which SPLA license is being used for their service delivery so that their customers can be assured they are properly licensed. For more information please review the SPLA program here and the VDI FAQ here.
