A Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) is a Microsoft-authorised partner that resells Microsoft cloud products, including Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, Azure and Power Platform, and provides billing, licensing management and technical support directly to customers. Rather than buying licences direct from Microsoft, businesses purchase through a CSP partner who manages the licensing relationship, provides consolidated billing and acts as first-line support. Advantage Business Systems is a Microsoft CSP partner serving UK SMEs.
How buying through a Microsoft CSP works
When a business buys Microsoft licences through a CSP like Advantage, the partner manages the full licensing lifecycle: procuring licences, billing the customer monthly or annually, adjusting quantities as the business grows and providing technical support. The customer gets a single point of contact for all Microsoft licensing rather than dealing with Microsoft directly. CSP pricing is typically equivalent to buying direct, with the added benefit of consolidated billing, flexible monthly terms and partner support.
Why UK businesses use a Microsoft CSP
- A growing business uses Advantage as its CSP to add and remove Microsoft 365 licences each month as headcount changes, without annual lock-in for every user.
- A business consolidates Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365 and Azure subscriptions onto a single Advantage invoice, simplifying procurement and finance.
- An IT manager contacts Advantage's support team for a Microsoft 365 licensing query and gets a response in hours rather than navigating Microsoft's global support channels.
- A business migrating to Business Central uses Advantage as CSP to source the correct Dynamics 365 licences at the right tier, with guidance on which licence type each user role requires.
Advantage as your Microsoft CSP partner
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner and CSP, Advantage manages Microsoft cloud licensing for hundreds of UK SMEs. We provide flexible monthly billing, licence optimisation reviews and first-line Microsoft support alongside implementation and managed services. Your Microsoft licensing is simpler, managed by a partner who knows your business.
Frequently asked questions
Is buying through a CSP more expensive than buying direct?
Not typically. CSP pricing is set by Microsoft and is generally equivalent to direct pricing. The value of a CSP like Advantage comes from consolidated billing, flexible monthly licensing, licence management support and access to a UK-based team rather than Microsoft's global support channels.
Can existing Microsoft licences be moved to Advantage as CSP?
Yes. Existing Microsoft 365 and Dynamics 365 subscriptions can be transferred to Advantage without service interruption. Advantage manages the transfer process on your behalf.
What is the difference between a Microsoft CSP and a traditional reseller?
A CSP is authorised to resell Microsoft cloud subscriptions with billing, support and management capabilities. Traditional resellers sell perpetual or volume licences under different Microsoft programmes. CSP is the primary Microsoft channel programme for cloud subscriptions.
