Who actually conducts Microsoft license audits?

Third-party accounting firms like Big 4 companies, not Microsoft directly.

Do Microsoft auditors need licensing certifications?

No certification or regulatory oversight is required for audit personnel.

Can audit findings be successfully challenged?

Yes, documented cases show millions in claims reduced through proper representation.

What happens if non-compliance exceeds 5%?

Organizations may be required to pay the full cost of the audit itself.

Microsoft License Audits: Why Companies Overpay Millions

Third-party accounting firms conduct Microsoft license audits on behalf of Microsoft, creating inherent conflicts of interest. These auditors often lack proper licensing expertise yet can assert multi-million dollar compliance shortfalls. Organizations frequently discover significant discrepancies between verbal claims and written documentation during audits.

Real cases demonstrate how supposed violations worth millions were reduced to hundreds of thousands or eliminated entirely through proper scrutiny. Auditors typically employ methods that maximize potential shortfalls rather than identifying cost-effective remediation options. The system lacks independent oversight, with Microsoft controlling all aspects from rule creation to final arbitration of disputes.

Read the full article at Directions on Microsoft →

This post is a paraphrased overview based on an article originally published by Directions on Microsoft.