Azure Hybrid Benefit (AHB)

What is AHB?

Azure Hybrid Use Benefit is a licensing benefit which helps you to further reduce the running costs of your workloads in Azure. By utilising AHB, you can use your on-premise Software Assurance enabled Windows Server or SQL Server licenses on Azure, often resulting in a reduced cost compared to the PAYG prices of these licenses.

When coupled with other optimisation options, such as Reserved Instances, this can offer much more significant saving on Virtual machines, when compared to PAYG prices. This will allow you to stabilise this monthly cost and develop a more predictable pricing model for you and your customer.

Which Licenses are eligible for Azure Hybrid Benefit?

Windows Server and SQL Server licenses with active Software Assurance or qualifying subscription licenses. These include:

·       Windows Server Datacenter edition with Software Assurance.

·       Windows Server Standard edition with Software Assurance.

·       SQL Server Enterprise Edition core licenses with Software Assurance or qualifying subscription licenses.

·       SQL Server Standard Edition core licenses with Software Assurance or qualifying subscription licenses.

If you don’t already have Software Assurance, it’s available for purchase with new licenses at list prices or with qualifying subscription licenses.

How do I activate AHB?

To create a new Virtual Machine with AHB for Windows Server, scroll to the bottom of the Basics tab during the creation process and under Licensing check the box to use an existing Windows Server license.

When updating an existing PAYG Virtual Machine in the Azure Portal you can activate AHB for Windows Server by simply selecting "Configuration" option and toggle the "Azure hybrid benefit" option.

Can I use AHB both Windows Server and SQL Server together?

Yes, you can use AHB for both SQL and Windows Server licenses when you use SQL Server with Azure Virtual Machines. If there is a cost saving available on both licenses, then this can offer a substantial financial benefit.

Is there any crossover between On-Premise and Azure usage when migrating Windows Server licensed resources to Azure?

Yes there is 180 days of dual-use rights so you can maintain your on-premises operation while migrating to Azure.

Example Savings

The following is an example of how much AHB could reduce Windows Server Licensing costs on different VM sizes:

* Price estimates taken from May 2021 Forex rates and Azure Calculator pricing