How to avoid unauthorized software licenses (and overpaying)

TL;DR

Buying through the wrong channel can mean unauthorized licenses (legal risk) or overpaying due to a lack of advisory on the right plan (financial risk). Both are avoided with an authorized distributor.

Buying Microsoft 365, Adobe, or any other enterprise software licenses seems simple, until a licensing audit shows up, or you discover you overpaid for a plan you didn't need.

The risk of "gray-market" licenses

Unofficial channels sell licenses at lower prices, but with no guarantee they're legitimate. The risk isn't just ethical: a licensing audit can result in fines and the obligation to repurchase everything correctly.

The wrong plan costs more than the right one

It's common for companies to buy plans that are either over- or under-scoped for their needs, simply because no one assessed which features each department actually uses.

What to ask before you buy

Is the vendor an authorized partner or distributor for the brand? Does the quote include advisory on which plan makes sense, or just a price list? Who follows up when the license is about to expire?

As an authorized Microsoft 365 partner, full Adobe suite reseller, and distributor through catalogs like Ingram Micro and SYSCOM, EGREGIE always starts with a needs diagnostic, not a price list.

Frequently asked questions

Clarity before you decide

How do I know if my company already has unauthorized licenses?

A licensing audit compares what you have installed against what's formally purchased. It's the first step before correcting any risk.

Can you help me consolidate licenses across different brands?

Yes, we cover Microsoft 365, Adobe, and the full wholesale distributor catalog, including Ingram Micro and SYSCOM.