rant=on

We've been a Microsoft Certified Partner for 10 years.

This is our last year. Their Licensing is so insane it is not even humorous.

We are in the process of doing an assessment for a major client. This includes giving an estimate of costs for moving onto a web based application.

We wanted to make sure we had our bases covered, so we called Microsoft to verify licensing requirements for SQL Server CALs.

We've always assumes CALs (or a processor license) were needed to cover any users who authenticate to a SQL server no matter how (windows/forms security/SQL users/etc). We've seen lots of people who argue that this is not the case if a web app uses forms based security, but we prefer to play it safe.

Of course, Microsoft agrees with us.

But, while they are at it, they also say that as soon as ANY authentication is made to the web site then you also need to have a Windows CAL or external connector license for that user. The fact that the user does not exist in Active Directory, have a windows profile, or use any windows services other than hitting the website and the SQL server data notwithstanding.

They have to have a SQL CAL AND a Windows CAL.

They gave us an example of AMAZON.COM. According to Microsoft, People who anonimously browse AMAZON do not need a CAL. As soon as they log in to make a purchase, they require SQL and Windows CALs.

Lets see... how many million orders will Amazon take online this year times how much SQL processor licenses and Windows CAL licenses for each customer cost...

That comes to ...

Apache and MySQL if my math is correct.

Looks like that is where this assessment is going too.

Our support of Microsoft has ended.

Even though they have better products and support than others IMHO, their licensing fees are the last straw in considering them.

rant=suspend momentarily