Clarification on Exchange Server SE Edition and Licensing

One thing I’ve noticed is that CSP partners cannot sell Software Assurance licenses, and there is also no subscription-based licensing for Exchange Server like there is for SQL Server. This makes Exchange Server licensing a bit confusing. From what I understand, CSP customers can only purchase Exchange Server 2019 from their partners and then upgrade to the SE edition. However, there is one concern — the Hybrid License. It might have an impact if we set up a hybrid environment with Microsoft 365 without Software Assurance. I understand that there are no technical challenges in doing so, but it may not be fully compliant with Microsoft’s licensing terms. I truly hope Microsoft provides clear and consistent licensing options across all channels, including CSP. Nowadays, it seems the focus is mainly on existing Exchange customers, but there should also be a proper path for new customers who wish to implement Exchange Server without an EA agreement.