ABSOLUTE DATA EXCELLENCE
ABSOLUTE DATA EXCELLENCE
Most organisations invest in perimeter security. The database – where the data actually lives – is the layer most often left ungoverned.Key Takeaways The perimeter protects the route, not the destination - Security investment concentrates on the edge, while the...
South Africa's breach record tells a consistent story – and it leads to the database layer.Key Takeaways The extraction point, not the entry point - Security investment concentrates on the perimeter and the endpoint, but the data leaves from the database – the one...
Prepare for the SQL Server 2025 era with a sequenced strategy for modernisation, optimisation, and protection across architecture, operations, and enterprise risk.Key Takeaways SQL Server 2025 should be approached as the start of a broader platform era, not simply...
Most organisations invest in perimeter security. The database – where the data actually lives – is the layer most often left ungoverned.Key Takeaways The perimeter protects the route, not the destination - Security investment concentrates on the edge, while the...
South Africa's breach record tells a consistent story – and it leads to the database layer.Key Takeaways The extraction point, not the entry point - Security investment concentrates on the perimeter and the endpoint, but the data leaves from the database – the one...
Prepare for the SQL Server 2025 era with a sequenced strategy for modernisation, optimisation, and protection across architecture, operations, and enterprise risk.Key Takeaways SQL Server 2025 should be approached as the start of a broader platform era, not simply...
Explore how SQL Server 2025 strengthens enterprise security through enforced secure defaults, identity integration, encryption, and governance assurance across hybrid environments.Key Takeaways SQL Server 2025 shifts enterprise security from optional hardening to...
Still paying Microsoft for Azure by credit card? Discover why finance and IT leaders prefer the CSP model for predictable billing, built-in partner support, cost optimisation, and long-term value.Key Takeways Credit card billing creates risk - Failed or expired...
On July 9, 2024, support for SQL Server 2014 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation.We've...
On July 12, 2022, support for SQL Server 2012 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and...
Still paying Microsoft for Azure by credit card? Discover why finance and IT leaders prefer the CSP model for predictable billing, built-in partner support, cost optimisation, and long-term value.Key Takeways Credit card billing creates risk - Failed or expired...
On July 9, 2024, support for SQL Server 2014 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and innovation.We've...
On October 10, 2023, support for Windows Server 2012 and 2012 R2 ended. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance...
On July 9, 2019, support for SQL Server 2008 and 2008 R2 will end. That means the end of regular security updates. Don't let your infrastructure and applications go unprotected. We're here to help you migrate to current versions for greater security, performance and...
As the year draws to a close, we would like to express our appreciation to our clients, partners, and colleagues for the trust and collaboration that have defined the year. We wish you and your teams a restful festive season and a successful year ahead, and we look...
Microsoft SQL Server 2025 marks an important shift in how organisations modernise, optimise, and protect their data platforms. As data estates become more hybrid, more intelligent, and more tightly governed, SQL Server 2025 is no longer just another upgrade cycle. It...
Standardised pricing will replace Microsoft’s long-standing tiered discount model - prompting many organisations to review the CSP programme for its cost savings, licensing flexibility, and simplified management.Microsoft Tiered EA/MPSA Pricing Ends Microsoft will...
As the year draws to a close, we would like to express our appreciation to our clients, partners, and colleagues for the trust and collaboration that have defined the year. We wish you and your teams a restful festive season and a successful year ahead, and we look...
Microsoft SQL Server 2025 marks an important shift in how organisations modernise, optimise, and protect their data platforms. As data estates become more hybrid, more intelligent, and more tightly governed, SQL Server 2025 is no longer just another upgrade cycle. It...
As we wrap up the year, we’d like to extend our sincere thanks to our clients, colleagues, and partners for your continued trust and support. We hope the festive season brings you the chance to slow down, recharge, and enjoy time with family and friends. Warm wishes...
Facing platform ‘end of life’ issues together with increasing pressures to digitise processes, increase profitability and innovate on product and service, organisations are finding Data Platform Modernisation projects can deliver significant value by enabling IT cost...
First Distribution’s Database Administration, Security and Compliance needs lead it to trusted advisor, Ascent Technology. For any large organisation, Database Administration (DBA) is a vital part of maintaining their Data Platform Operations effectively. As it has...
When Bidfood SA chose to modernise and migrate its data platform to Microsoft Azure, it turned to Ascent Technology for help. In a world that is digitally transforming, it is more vital than ever to an organisation’s success to utilise the latest platforms to drive...
A Windows Server and SQL Server consolidation, optimisation and migration to Microsoft Azure enables the company to reduce costs, modernise its data platform and boost its innovation capabilities. As an operator running two distinct betting businesses, Phumelela...
First Distribution’s Database Administration, Security and Compliance needs lead it to trusted advisor, Ascent Technology. For any large organisation, Database Administration (DBA) is a vital part of maintaining their Data Platform Operations effectively. As it has...
When Bidfood SA chose to modernise and migrate its data platform to Microsoft Azure, it turned to Ascent Technology for help. In a world that is digitally transforming, it is more vital than ever to an organisation’s success to utilise the latest platforms to drive...
Microsoft Azure Data Platform Services not only boosts the company’s DR facilities, it also helps them deliver value-added services and innovative strategic solutions to its customers. In a digitising world, it comes as no surprise to learn that Compatible Automotive...
Ascent Technology assists Rand Mutual Assurance (RMA) with modernising its Windows Server and SQL Server, Azure Based Data Platform Architecture, ensuring Agility and Flexibility to cater for the company’s increased workloads. RMA is South Africa’s leading...
Ascent Technology continues its strong showing in the Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, as a finalist in the Data and Analytics Partner of the Year award.Finalist Data and Analytics Partner of the Year "It is always gratifying to be recognised by Microsoft as one...
Ascent Technology continues its strong showing in the Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, as a finalist in the Data and Analytics Partner of the Year award.Finalist Data and Analytics Partner of the Year "It is always gratifying to be recognised by Microsoft as one...
Ascent Technology continues its strong showing in the Microsoft Partner of the Year awards, as a finalist in the Data and Analytics Partner of the Year award.Finalist Data and Analytics Partner of the Year "It is always gratifying to be recognised by Microsoft as one...
In today’s cloud-first world, selecting the right Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) is about more than finding someone to sell you licenses. It’s a strategic decision; one that directly impacts how efficiently and securely your business can operate in the Microsoft ecosystem.
With dozens of CSPs available, many promising the same capabilities, the real challenge for CIOs and IT leaders lies in choosing a partner who can offer more than transactional value. You need a CSP that understands your infrastructure, aligns with your strategy, and accelerates your journey, not one that simply moves licenses around.
A Microsoft CSP partner is authorised to provide Microsoft cloud products and services (including Azure, Microsoft 365, and Dynamics) bundled with value-added support, billing, and guidance. Unlike Microsoft’s traditional Enterprise Agreements, CSPs offer:
Ascent Technology is a Microsoft Direct CSP Partner – contracted directly with Microsoft for the licences and Azure consumption we provision for clients. That accountability matters. Direct CSP status means a single contractual chain between the client, Ascent and Microsoft, with no third-party layer in between for licensing, billing, support escalation or Azure consumption.
Our clients benefit from unified advisory, flexible monthly billing, and the hands-on expertise of our Data Platform consultants – one partner across the Microsoft estate and the data platform that runs on it.
At Ascent Technology, we approach CSP services differently. We don’t lead with licensing – we lead with Data Platform expertise.
Our clients don’t just need access to Azure; they need a modern, secure, and scalable cloud architecture. That’s why we integrate Microsoft CSP services into a broader consulting-led framework, helping organisations:
This unique approach, backed by decades of experience in data platform modernisation, compliance, and enterprise cloud delivery, means our clients benefit from a Microsoft CSP partner that truly understands the architecture behind the scenes.
| Factor | What to look for | Ascent |
|---|---|---|
| Certification & Track Record |
Is the provider a CSP with proven real world Azure delivery? | ✅ |
| Consulting Capability | Do they help with architecture, migration, and optimisation, or just licenses? | ✅ |
| Security & Compliance |
Do they embed governance and protection into every solution? | ✅ |
| Billing Flexibility | Can they support usage-based billing, scaling, and tailored commercial models? | ✅ |
| Client Focus | Will you receive responsive support, personalised guidance, and strategic input? | ✅ |
| Future Readiness | Can they support MS Fabric, AI integration, and hybrid strategies beyond today’s needs? | ✅ |
With over 20 years of experience and a team of senior Data Platform Consultants, Ascent is trusted by enterprises across South Africa, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East. Our CSP offering isn’t an add-on; it’s an integrated part of how we help our clients modernise data platforms, reduce risk, and extract maximum value from Microsoft Azure.
Whether you’re looking to reduce licensing complexity, improve security posture, or prepare for the next wave of AI-driven innovation, we’re here to help.
If you’re rethinking your Microsoft licensing strategy, or looking for a CSP partner who can support transformation, not just transactions – it’s time to talk to Ascent.
Contact Us to learn how our Microsoft CSP offering can help your business modernise, optimise, and grow, all while keeping it Cheaper and Better.