Office Web Apps License Rights
Microsoft Office Web Apps (OWA) is a suite of web-based applications that allow users to view, edit, and collaborate on Microsoft Office documents in a web browser. These applications are often included with various Microsoft products and services, and their licensing rights can be complex depending on the specific context. Here's a breakdown of key points to consider:
Licensing through Microsoft 365
- Individual users: If you're a Microsoft 365 subscriber, you're granted a license to use OWA as part of your subscription. This allows you to access and edit documents stored in your OneDrive cloud storage.
- Business users: Microsoft 365 Business and Enterprise plans include licenses for OWA, allowing employees to access and collaborate on documents stored in the organization's SharePoint Online environment. The specific features available can vary depending on the chosen plan.
Licensing through Other Products
- SharePoint Server: If you are using a locally installed version of SharePoint Server, OWA functionality might be included as part of the server's license. This allows users on your internal network to access and edit documents stored in your SharePoint environment.
- Windows Server Essentials: This product includes OWA for basic document collaboration within small businesses. The specific features available may be limited compared to full-fledged Microsoft 365 plans.
Free OWA Usage
- Viewing Documents: Microsoft offers free access to view Office documents online using their online viewer. This feature is available even without a Microsoft account.
- Limited Editing Features: In certain situations, you may be able to perform basic editing tasks on Office documents through the free online viewer. However, the full editing functionality is typically only available with a paid Microsoft 365 subscription.
Important Considerations
- Usage Rights: Be aware of the specific usage rights granted by your license agreement. This includes the number of users allowed, the types of documents that can be accessed, and the editing features available.
- Compliance: Ensure that your OWA usage aligns with your organization's policies and legal requirements, particularly regarding data privacy and security.
Conclusion
Understanding the licensing rights associated with Office Web Apps is crucial for ensuring legal and compliant usage. It's essential to review your specific license agreement and consult with Microsoft documentation or technical support for clarification regarding your specific scenario.