How to Get MSDN Subscriptions on a Budget

As a developer, having access to the best tools and resources can greatly enhance your skills and expand your horizons. For Microsoft developers, the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN) offers a treasure trove of software and resources. However, the cost of an MSDN subscription can often be prohibitive, especially for those tinkering at home or pursuing personal projects. So, how can you access MSDN subscriptions inexpensively? Let’s dive into some viable solutions.

The Challenge: High Costs of MSDN Subscriptions

Many passionate developers find the hefty prices of MSDN subscriptions unattainable for casual use. While Express editions of Microsoft’s tools exist, they often lack the advanced features that developers use in professional settings. This leaves hobbyists with limited options for experimenting with the latest technologies and features Microsoft offers. So, how can someone who is not a Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) find a way to access these resources without burning a hole in their pocket?

A Viable Solution: The Empower Program

What is the Empower Program?

One potential solution is the Empower program that Microsoft launched. This program was designed primarily for Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) who are creating products to bring to market. While it may seem targeted at commercial endeavors, there are benefits to hobbyists and small-scale developers as well.

Key Benefits of the Empower Program

• Affordable Access: The Empower program provides access to several premium subscriptions at a significantly reduced price.
• Full Suite of Software: Participants get a wide range of Microsoft’s development tools, helping you create and test your applications effectively.
• Real-World Applications: The program even includes licenses for popular applications, such as Microsoft Office, which can be quite handy for documentation and productivity.

The Catch

• Initial Cost with Long-Term Commitment: The program is economical at the start, but after a couple of years, participants are required to pay the full subscription price. This is based on the expectation that individuals will have released a product by that time and thus should be able to afford it.

Final Thoughts

For hobbyists and individual developers looking for ways to experiment and learn with Microsoft technologies, the Empower program presents a viable solution. While it’s primarily aimed at ISVs, it can provide the access you need at a reduced rate. Before diving into the program, it might be beneficial to assess any potential future products you plan to develop, ensuring you can maximize the benefits of this affordable MSDN subscription pathway.

So, if you’re looking for ways to expand your development toolkit without the high costs typically associated with MSDN subscriptions, consider the Empower program. Your journey in Microsoft development could be just a subscription away!