Microsoft in 2026: what the price changes mean for your next renewal
Microsoft has implemented multiple changes in a short time: volume discounts in the Enterprise Agreement disappeared, Microsoft 365 became more expensive, and CSP also saw an adjustment. What does that mean for your next renewal?
- 5 October 2026
- 5 min
For many Enterprise organisations, Microsoft represents the largest Software contract. It is precisely here that significant changes have occurred recently. An overview of the main changes and what they mean for you.
The changes at a glance
1 November 2025: volume discounts in the Enterprise Agreement disappeared. Organisations that previously received discounts based on their user numbers will pay the standard price level at their next renewal. Depending on the situation, this can be up to around 12% more expensive.
1 July 2026: Microsoft 365 became more expensive. The price increase applies across all purchasing channels: Enterprise Agreement, CSP, and direct. For example, Microsoft 365 E3 rose from 36 to 39 dollars and E5 from 57 to 60 dollars per user per month (US list prices). This comes with additional functionality, such as Defender for Office 365 Plan 1 included in E3.
1 October 2026: surcharge on CSP Software with monthly payments. For annual subscriptions to Software paid monthly, such as Windows Server, SQL Server, and CALs, Microsoft charges an additional 5%. This does not apply as a general increase for Microsoft 365.
Windows 10 Extended Security Updates. Those still using Windows 10 will pay double for the second year of security updates compared to the first year.
What does this mean for your organisation?
Review your license mix critically. Are you paying separately for Defender when it is now included in E3? You might be paying twice.
Pay attention to the payment frequency. Paying annually instead of monthly avoids the new surcharge on CSP Software.
Consider price protection. A three-year term locks in the price but limits your flexibility.
Reconsider your purchasing channel. Microsoft is steering more organisations towards CSP or the Microsoft Customer Agreement for Enterprise. Which option is most cost-effective depends on your size and requirements.
How SoftVaro helps
Your Microsoft contract is rarely isolated from the rest of your Software landscape. SoftVaro collaborates with you on your license mix and terms alongside your existing Enterprise Agreement. At the same time, we look at all other Software vendors involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most commonly asked questions on this topic.
Does the July 2026 price increase apply immediately to my current subscription?
No. Existing subscriptions retain their price until the next renewal. The new price applies at the start of your new term.
Is CSP cheaper than an Enterprise Agreement?
It depends on your size, contract duration, and flexibility requirements. It’s worth running both scenarios before your contract expires.
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