Microsoft takes action: to pause license renewals for Russian users

Microsoft will stop renewing licenses for Russian companies after September 30, after suspending the sales and scaling down the operations last year, due to sanctions imposed by the United States, Great Britain, and the European Union, said in a letter sent to Telecom Daily Agency in Russia (we couldn’t find the source). This decision appears to be a continuation of Microsoft’s response to Russia’s attack on Ukraine, which led to the suspension of sales in the Russian market in March of the previous year.

The decision not to renew licenses for Russian companies has potential implications for corporate clients in Russia. According to Forbes, up to 90% of corporate clients reportedly use Microsoft’s products, and the inability to receive updates could impact the security of corporate networks, potentially making them more vulnerable to hacking attempts.

Transitioning to software developed by Russian companies might not be seamless. Moreover, the transition could take several months to years, depending on the complexity of the IT infrastructure. Users would need to adapt to new interfaces, modify business processes, and IT specialists might need to establish a new infrastructure using Russian solutions.

But with this, Russian software alternatives are gaining traction as viable options for Microsoft’s products. These local solutions offer the crucial benefit of robust support from Russian developers, a factor pivotal for a seamless transition. Unlike Microsoft, these alternatives prioritize ongoing assistance, aiding companies in navigating the shift away from foreign software and promoting digital autonomy.

via RFERL (English, Russian)