Indirect Provider
A Microsoft indirect provider is a distributor authorized by Microsoft to supply Microsoft cloud services, platform, and support to indirect resellers in the CSP program. Resellers buy through the indirect provider, which handles the direct Microsoft relationship, while the reseller owns and bills the end customer.
Key Takeaways
- Indirect providers are Microsoft-authorized distributors, for example Pax8, Ingram Micro, and TD SYNNEX.
- They supply the Microsoft relationship, platform, and support to resellers.
- Resellers rely on indirect-provider data to bill their own customers accurately.
- The indirect provider is different from the indirect reseller it serves.
How the role works
The indirect provider transacts directly with Microsoft and provisions services on behalf of its resellers. It passes charges and reconciliation data to resellers, who then bill end customers from their own contracts.
Why it matters for Microsoft CSPs
For indirect resellers, the indirect provider is the source of the charges and data that customer billing is built on. Reconciling that data accurately to customer contracts is essential to protecting margin.
How Work 365 supports this
Work 365 connects to indirect-provider and distributor data and reconciles it to customer contracts for accurate billing. See the CSP Billing Platform.
Related terms: Indirect CSP, CSP Distributor, Direct CSP, Provider.
FAQ
Who are the main Microsoft indirect providers?
Distributors such as Pax8, Ingram Micro, and TD SYNNEX, among others.
What is the difference between an indirect provider and an indirect reseller?
The provider is the distributor that supplies the Microsoft relationship; the reseller sells to end customers.
