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StephanGee's avatar
StephanGee
Steel Contributor
Jan 21, 2025

Creating a test environment similar to prod - how to license?

Hi,

We want to create a test environment to avoid "system wide" settings deploy to production without testing them first (e.g. Kerberos Enforcement or Entra Sync Settings)

We would use Windows Trial licenses and Entra Connect to connect to a Testtenant.

How must we license this test environment to be compliant with MS licensing? Some say it's Trial and not production "you do not have to". Others say we need to license "like Prod".

Can anyone (preferably a Microsoft employee) help with this question? 

 

BR

Stephan

  • StephanGee's avatar
    StephanGee
    Steel Contributor

    Not yet - licensing questions are normally answered by the partners. I hoped i would get someone from MS here :) 
    Where would you file that support request? At M365 normal support?

  • luchete's avatar
    luchete
    Iron Contributor

    Hi Stephan
    In my understanding for a test environment with Windows Trial licenses and Entra Connect, you typically don’t need to license it the same way as production as long as you’re using the trial versions and the environment is purely for testing purposes. The general rule is that test environments should not require full production licenses unless they’re used for more than just testing or are part of a larger production system. However, as you've said, Microsoft’s licensing can be complex, and it’s always safest to confirm with them directly, especially if you're using features like Entra Connect in a non-production setup. Have you tried to contact Microsoft support directly for a definitive answer based on your specific use case?

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