Microsoft has this week announced that it will be retiring the Microsoft TechNet Subscriptions service which enabled Microsoft users to put Microsoft products through their paces without the need to commit to an outright purchase.
Microsoft TechNet subscriptions and renewals will remain on sale until August 31, 2013, with activation of subscriptions supported until September 30, 2013.
Impact on IT Professionals
“Microsoft is retiring the Microsoft TechNet Subscriptions service, including evaluation resources through the TechNet Evaluation Center, expert-led learning through the Microsoft Virtual Academy, and community-moderated technical support through the TechNet Forums to better meet the needs of the growing IT professional community.
IT professionals who would like to purchase a new Microsoft TechNet Subscriptions or renew an existing subscription may do so through August 31, 2013. Subscribers may activate purchased subscriptions through September 30, 2013.
Microsoft remains committed to providing IT professionals with access to the resources and technical assets they need to learn about, evaluate, and deploy Microsoft technologies”
The decision to retire the TechNet Subscriptions service has significant implications for IT professionals who have relied on it for years. The service provided a cost-effective way for IT departments to test and evaluate Microsoft products before making a full commitment. This was particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses that may not have the budget for extensive software purchases.
Alternatives and Future Resources
With the retirement of TechNet Subscriptions, Microsoft is encouraging users to explore other resources. The TechNet Evaluation Center will continue to offer free trials of Microsoft products, although these trials are typically limited to 30-90 days. Additionally, the Microsoft Virtual Academy will still provide expert-led learning opportunities, and the TechNet Forums will remain a valuable resource for community-moderated technical support.
For those looking for more comprehensive evaluation options, Microsoft suggests considering the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) subscriptions. While MSDN subscriptions are generally more expensive, they offer a broader range of software and services, including access to pre-release versions of Microsoft products.
You can find out more about the background on Microsoft TechNet Subscriptions decision and implications for current subscribers over at the TechNet Subscriptions FAQ.
Source: Hot Hardware
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