Microsoft Licensing for Startup Companies!

HNGamers, like many other Indie game startups, had very humble beginnings. Fortunately for HNGamers, I worked in the computer industry and had access to things most users wouldn't. Regardless, the startup costs for the first year exceeded $15000 USD for Torque, the development software, licensing and more. back then, you either bought your license or resorted to shady grey or black area software sources (borrowing from work, friends or torrent sites). As a homeowner, this was not that big of a deal. As a business owner, it creates a serious licensing problem and potentially providing the men in black with a reason for visiting.

Enter Microsoft Bizspark for businesses and Autodesk for students. Let's tackle Autodesk first here since it offers the least.

Autodesk: http://students.autodesk.com/

What it is: A location for those who are in school, learning or just wanting to play without actually purchasing the software. These are FULL versions of the software and not limited in any way. The only thing you will notice is a pop up at program launch indicating that this is Student based software.

What you can do: Start designing models immediately with any number of the Autodesk software offerings.

What you can't do: Sell any content that was generated with these software versions.

Some software you can obtain: Mudbox 2012, Cad 2012, 3DsMax 2012, Maya 2012

What is required: Not much, a valid email is all you need.


Microsoft: http://www.microsoft.com/bizspark/

What it is: A location for startup businesses in thier first 3 years of business, making less then $1 million a year and developing software. (does this sound like you!?) This provides every single MSDN license that you normally have to purchase for a period of 3 years.

What you can do: Get licenses and downloads for MSDN for 3 Years. These download offerings provide every software available from Microsoft from Dos - Windows 7 all the way to Server 2008 R2.

What you can't do: Use the software for end user access for anything other then development purposes. What this does is allow you the developer to utilize the tools without actually buying the license.

Some software you can obtain: Windows Server, Windows 3.1 - Windows 7, Visual Studio Ultimate, Exchange Server and more

What is required: A valid BUSINESS domain and email, you cannot register under a gmail, yahoo or similar email. You must use your business email to register; although, you can sign into your MSN account which is not related to the business. You must be within the first three years and must develop software. This covers the majority of the users at this site.