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What should you look out for when buying used software?
The digital economy is booming: IT budgets have been rising steadily for years and the percentage of expenditure on IT operation and maintenance remains high. As a result, companies are investing significantly more money in modernising their systems. One cost-effective way to optimise the IT infrastructure is to purchase used software. But is it as easy as it sounds? Despite the clearly regulated legal situation, many companies are still sceptical when it comes to buying and selling used software.
Used software makes it possible to optimise IT expenditure and thus free up capital for other areas. Buyers do not experience any disadvantages: This is because software is not a commodity that wears out over time. It is always in mint condition and is no different from new licences purchased. An ideal way to keep your IT infrastructure up to date at low cost. But there are a few aspects to bear in mind. Here are our tips.
Secure licence transfer: guaranteeing legality
A secure licence transfer is essential when purchasing used software. This is guaranteed by various factors, whereby certification (for example in the form of a TÜV IT certificate) plays an important role. The certificate confirms that the licence transfer complies with legal requirements and that the origin and audit security of all licences are guaranteed. It is also a sign of customised processes that take into account the current legal situation. It is based on the judgements of the European Court of Justice (ECJ) and the German Federal Court of Justice (BGH) regarding the trade in used software licences.
Another important aspect for a secure licence transfer is the individual licence consultation by the provider. By analysing a company's individual licence requirements, possible over- or under-licensing can be avoided. This not only saves money, but also minimises legal risks in the event of an audit.
Guaranteed availability
Not all offers on the market correspond to reality. Some providers advertise products that are not immediately available. It is therefore advisable to choose a provider that offers guaranteed availability of the software. This ensures that the desired product is in stock and enables prompt deliveries.
Provision of products through a secure portal
Proper archiving and management of software licences is essential to ensure the legally compliant use of your software. Licence management portals offer a practical solution for managing your licences, regardless of the provider. With a licence management portal, all licences purchased and the associated documents and downloads are automatically stored in the portal. This saves you manual archiving and ensures a complete overview of your licences.
Fast delivery
When purchasing software, it is not only the quality and security of the product that is important, but also the speed with which it is delivered. In today's business world, time is precious. It is therefore important that the provider enables fast delivery of the software. Licences should be made available within a few hours of purchase so that companies can start installing and using them straight away.
Soft & Cloud as a reliable partner at your side
When buying used software, it is advisable to choose a trustworthy provider. Soft & Cloud has been one of the leading providers of used software since the company was founded ten years ago and has been awarded the TÜV IT certificate for the fifth time in a row. We also guarantee the availability of our products and offer maximum transparency and secure archiving of all licences and documents purchased through our licence portal. If you need your licences quickly, we will deliver them on the same day if you order before 12 noon on working days.
Soft & Cloud only offers you audit-proof original licences from Microsoft. We are characterised by our broad product portfolio and high availability, including the latest versions shortly after their release. The transfer of usage rights is ECJ-compliant and confirmed by the TÜV IT certificate. As a pioneer, we were the first provider to receive this certificate, which is already trusted by over 5,000 satisfied customers.
Used software costs you little. Asking costs you nothing.
Contact us.