Why would I buy Azure through a CSP partner instead of directly from Microsoft?

Buying Azure through a Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) partner like Increscent provides the exact same underlying Microsoft Azure infrastructure and portal access as purchasing directly, but adds dedicated support, simplified billing, and tailored guidance.

Key advantages of choosing a CSP partner include:

1. Bundled Support Without Extra Fees

When buying direct from Microsoft, technical support plans usually require a separate monthly fee. With a CSP partner, technical support and subscription assistance are bundled into your relationship, giving you direct access to expert help without paying for an extra support plan.

2. Streamlined Billing & Cost Optimization

Instead of managing separate invoices, a CSP partner provides one consolidated bill for your Azure usage, Microsoft 365, and other cloud services. Additionally, partners help you minimize cloud spend by implementing Azure Plans, Reservations, and Savings Plans to secure discounted rates for predictable workloads.

3. Licensing & Architectural Expertise

Navigating cloud governance and rules—like Microsoft's New Commerce Experience (NCE) seat policies—can be complex. A CSP partner acts as an extension of your team, assisting with resource scaling, cost management, and architecture decisions so your cloud footprint stays efficient.