Large corporations get a very significant discount when they purchase software for thousands of users. They often purchase a larger block of software than they actually need to secure a more competitive per user price. Also, there are many companies outside the US who are able to get the software for cheaper than it is available in the US. Often times these companies resell the additional licenses they don't need for a fraction of the retail price. When you purchase the software license from these companies you usually end up purchasing the license key from them and downloading the software from the software company's website. When you need software, search for it online. You will most likely find it for a significant discount. For example you can purchase Microsoft Office professional that typically sells for over $400 from Microsoft for under $50.