What should be retired first when software expires?

When software expires, the first priority should be to retire the associated entitlements. This is because entitlements define the rights to use software products and include any licenses and other rights given to an organization or individual. Once the expiration occurs, it is essential to ensure that the organization no longer holds any legal use or entitlement to the software in question.

Retiring associated entitlements first helps prevent potential legal issues that could arise from continued use of expired software. It effectively communicates that an organization no longer has the right to utilize the software and allows for a clear, organized process in compliance with software asset management practices. By managing entitlements appropriately, organizations can better control software usage and related costs.

In comparison, while licenses, installations, and user accounts are important components of software management, they should be addressed following the retirement of associated entitlements to maintain an effective compliance posture and operational integrity. Retiring entitlements first establishes a foundational clarity on the legal standing concerning the software.