Season’s Greetings from the Ascent Technology Team
Table of Contents
VENDOR RELATIONSHIPS
FROM THE DESK OF THE MD
Why Database Auditing Is No Longer Optional
In an era defined by relentless cyber threats and tightening regulatory demands, organisations can no longer afford to treat database auditing as optional. From sensitive customer records to financial data and IP, databases are prime targets - and without proper...
The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Your Database Administration
In many organisations, database administration is an afterthought - a background function that only gains attention when something breaks. But the costs of neglecting proper DBA practices are far from hidden. From performance issues and downtime to security...
The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Your Database Administration
In many organisations, database administration is an afterthought - a background function that only gains attention when something breaks. But the costs of neglecting proper DBA practices are far from hidden. From performance issues and downtime to security...
CAMPAIGNS
Prepare for SQL Server 2014 End of Support
On July 9, 2024, support for SQL Server 2014 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation....
Prepare for SQL Server 2012 End of Support
On July 12, 2022, support for SQL Server 2012 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation....
Prepare for Windows Server 2012 End of Support
On October 10, 2023, support for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance...
NEWSFLASHES
Ascent Technology’s clients benefit from Data Platform Modernisation
Facing platform ‘end of life’ issues together with increasing pressures to digitise processes, increase profitability and innovate on product and service, organisations are finding Data Platform Modernisation projects can deliver significant value by enabling IT cost...
Ascent Technology’s clients benefit from Database Administration Outsourcing
Ascent Technology's proven database services model enables clients to Co/Outsource the daily maintenance, management and support of their database environments on a 24/7 basis. The active monitoring, preventative maintenance and management ensures optimal performance....
CLIENT CASE STUDIES
DB Administration, Security and Compliance for First Distribution
First Distribution’s Database Administration, Security and Compliance needs lead it to trusted advisor, Ascent Technology. For any large organisation, Database Administration (DBA) is a vital part of maintaining their Data Platform Operations effectively. As it has...
Ascent Technology helps Bidfood SA migrate to Microsoft Azure
When Bidfood SA chose to modernise and migrate its data platform to Microsoft Azure, it turned to Ascent Technology for help. In a world that is digitally transforming, it is more vital than ever to an organisation’s success to utilise the latest platforms to drive...
Ascent Technology helps migrate Phumelela Gaming to Azure
A Windows Server and SQL Server consolidation, optimisation and migration to Microsoft Azure enables the company to reduce costs, modernise its data platform and boost its innovation capabilities. As an operator running two distinct betting businesses, Phumelela...
AWARDS AND ACCOLADES
Microsoft Data and Analytics Partner of the Year Finalist
Ascent Technology continues its strong showing in the Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, as a finalist in the Data and Analytics Partner of the Year award. Finalist Data and Analytics Partner of the Year "It is always gratifying to be recognised by Microsoft as one...
Microsoft Tiered EA/MPSA Pricing Ends – Explore the CSP Advantage
18 Aug 2025
Standardised pricing replaces tiered discounts — many organisations are reviewing CSP for cost and flexibility benefits.
Microsoft Tiered EA/MPSA Pricing Ends
Microsoft will remove tiered discounts for Online Services under Enterprise Agreement (EA) and Microsoft Products and Services Agreement (MPSA) from November 1, 2025.
All customers will pay a single standardised rate, matching prices listed on Microsoft.com.
For organisations currently on higher discount tiers, this could mean higher costs – making now the right time to explore more flexible, cost-effective alternatives such as the Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) model.
What is Changing
From November 2025, EA and MPSA Online Services pricing will move to a single, standard rate for all customers, ending Levels A–D tiered pricing.
The change takes effect at your next renewal or when adding new Online Services not on your current price sheet.
While Microsoft cites simplicity and transparency, it will remove significant discounts for many – prompting organisations to compare EA/MPSA renewal costs against CSP’s more flexible model.
Who is Affected
Organisations most impacted will be:
- EA/MPSA customers on discounted Levels B, C, or D.
- Large seat-count customers with high-volume licensing who will lose tier-based savings.
- Businesses with renewals due on or after November 1, 2025.
What is the Impact
The removal of EA and MPSA tiered discounts will have a different effect depending on your current pricing level.
For some, especially those on Levels B, C, or D, the change could mean noticeable cost increases at renewal.
For others already paying Level A rates, pricing may remain stable – but the overall shift still changes the competitive landscape.
With the cost gap between EA/MPSA and CSP narrowing, many organisations are finding it’s the right moment to reassess their licensing strategy.
- Price increases for customers previously on discounted Levels B, C, or D under EA/MPSA.
- No change for customers already paying Level A pricing
- No product or feature changes – the update purely standardises price levels.
The removal of EA/MPSA tiered discounts may narrow the cost gap between these agreements and the CSP model, making CSP a more competitive and flexible alternative for many organisations
Action Steps Before November 2025
Act now to avoid last-minute decisions and missed savings:
- Evaluate CSP now – compare costs and flexibility against your EA/MPSA renewal.
- Cost Modelling – Side-by-side comparisons of EA/MPSA vs. CSP pricing
- Quantify impact – calculate the cost difference from losing Levels B–D discounts.
- Right-size licenses – remove unused accounts, consolidate SKUs, and align to actual usage.
How Ascent Technology Helps
We provide expert guidance, cost modelling, and hands-on migration support to ensure your transition to CSP – or optimisation of your current licensing – is smooth and cost-effective.
- CSP Transition Planning – A full review of your current agreements, renewal timing, and migration options.
- Cost Modelling – Side-by-side comparisons of EA/MPSA vs. CSP pricing.
- Implementation & Optimisation – Smooth migration to CSP with ongoing license management.
Contact Us today to model the financial impact of Microsoft’s November 2025 pricing changes, compare your EA/MPSA options with CSP, and create a transition plan that maximises flexibility and value.
Acting early gives you more control over costs and ensures you’re ready before the changes take effect.
Also See
> Selecting the Right Microsoft CSP for Your Business
> Transitioning from Microsoft EA to CSP
By: Johan Lamberts