Help CenterIn Microsoft 365, by default, users in an organization are allowed to initiate self-service trials and make purchases for various products. While this feature can be beneficial in some scenarios by enabling users to explore new tools, it may also present challenges for IT admins and financial controllers. Organizations may want more centralized control over software procurement and trials to ensure compliance, manage costs, and prevent the unintentional purchase of unnecessary services.
This article will walk you through the process of blocking self-service trials and purchases in Microsoft 365, using both the Microsoft 365 Admin Center and PowerShell to implement these changes.
Why Block Self-Service Trials and Purchases?
While enabling self-service capabilities in Microsoft 365 can foster autonomy and exploration, there are several risks associated with allowing users to make purchases or start trials on their own:
1. Financial Control: Unmonitored purchases can lead to unanticipated subscription costs and misaligned budgeting.
2. Compliance Risks: Unauthorized trials may introduce security vulnerabilities or violate software compliance policies.
3. License Management: Without proper oversight, self-service purchases may result in redundant or underutilized licenses, complicating license management.
How to Block Self-Service Trials and Purchases Using the Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Blocking self-service purchases in the Microsoft 365 Admin Center is straightforward. Follow these steps:
1. Sign in to the Microsoft 365 Admin Center
Go to the [Microsoft 365 Admin Center](https://admin.microsoft.com) and sign in using your admin credentials.
2. Navigate to Org Settings
Click Settings in the navigation panel, then click Org Settings.
3. Go to Services
In the Org Settings menu, select the Services tab.
4. Find Self-Service Trials and Purchases
Scroll down or search for Self-service trials and purchases and click on it.
5. Select a Product
From the list, select the product for which you want to block self-service trials or purchases.
6. Block Self-Service
Choose the option Do not allow for that product.
7. Save Your Changes
Click Save changes to apply the new settings.
This will prevent users from initiating self-service trials or making individual purchases for the selected product.
How to Use PowerShell to Block Self-Service Trials and Purchases
For larger environments or administrators who prefer automation, PowerShell provides a powerful way to block self-service trials and purchases in bulk.
Additional Considerations
- Communication with Users: It is important to communicate any changes to self-service settings with your users. They should be informed of the policy and any new procedures for requesting software or initiating trials through IT or procurement channels.
- Monitoring and Auditing: Regularly audit self-service settings to ensure they align with your organization's evolving needs. Microsoft 365 allows admins to review purchase histories and product usage through detailed reports, helping maintain transparency over user activity.
Conclusion
Disabling self-service trials and purchases in Microsoft 365 is a crucial step for organizations looking to tighten security, control costs, and streamline software management. By enforcing these controls, admins can reduce the risk of unplanned expenditures and ensure that only authorized personnel are responsible for product trials and procurement.