HOPE THIS HELPS
Today we are announcing the Software Protection Platform –a new set of technologies that will help Microsoft make software piracy harder, help protect consumers from the risks of counterfeit software, and better enable small to large businesses to manage their software assets. The Software Protection Platform has been under development for several years. It brings together new anti-piracy innovations, counterfeit detection and tamper-resistant features into a complete platform that provides better software protection to programs that leverage it. Initially, the upcoming releases of Windows Vista and Windows Server “Longhorn” will be the first two products to ship with this technology included, and eventually more Microsoft products will adopt this technology.
In addition, the Software Protection Platform enables the next generation of genuine validation programs such as Windows Genuine Advantage (product differentiation). In short, it introduces new ways for Windows Vista and Windows Server “Longhorn” to activate, validate as genuine, and behave when tampered with or hacked.
PressPass: Please describe these changes in more detail.
Hartje: One of the things the Software Protection Platform enables is enhancements to the genuine experience in Windows Vista, thereby differentiating it from the non-genuine experience. Customers that use genuine Windows Vista product should expect, and will get, an enhanced set of features that will not work on non-genuine or unlicensed versions of Windows Vista. Customers using genuine and licensed copies of Windows Vista will have access to Windows Aero and Windows ReadyBoost features, as well as full functionality of Windows Defender and extra optional updates from Windows Update. Computer systems that do not pass validation will not have access to these features, although they will still have access to critical security updates. Aero offers Microsoft’s best-designed, highest-performing desktop experience and is available in Windows Vista Home Premium, Windows Vista Business and Windows Vista Ultimate. ReadyBoost lets users use a removable flash memory device to improve system performance without opening the computer to install additional memory. Both are key features that a user of non-genuine software will quickly realize are not running. Windows Defender helps protect a user’s PC against pop-ups, and security threats caused by spyware and other malware.
In addition, users of non-genuine Windows Vista software will be notified if their copy of Windows Vista is determined to be non-genuine with the appearance of a persistent statement in the lower right hand corner of their desktop space that reads, “This copy of Windows is not genuine.”
Another important change with Windows Vista has to do with the activation process. As with Windows XP, Windows Vista systems must activate with Microsoft with a genuine product key within 30 days. Failure to do so will result in the system operating in reduced functionality mode until a genuine product key is used to activate and a successful validation occurs.
Today, many victims of counterfeit software have software running with stolen product keys that originally were issued to organizations or large businesses. These victims may find out long after they have purchased their PC and installed the operating system software that it is not genuine when they try to get add-ons through the Microsoft Download center, Windows Update or other Microsoft service. With Windows Vista, a user will likely know that they have an installation with an unauthorized key much more quickly. If the software is discovered to be counterfeit or non-genuine, the user may be asked to reactivate their copy of Windows. Product keys can be blocked for a number of reasons, including if the product key is abused, stolen, pirated or seized as a result of anti-piracy enforcement efforts. Product keys can also be blocked if they are beta or test keys and have been disabled, if there were manufacturing errors in the keys or if the keys have been returned. Microsoft has call centers that can aid customers who have questions if they are told they are using non-genuine software.
PressPass: Does “reduced functionality” mean Microsoft will turn off people’s PCs running non-genuine Windows Vista software?
Hartje: No, Microsoft anti-piracy technologies cannot and will not turn off your computer. In alignment with our anti-piracy policies we have been continually improving the experience for our genuine customers, while restricting access to ongoing Windows capabilities for those who choose to use counterfeit software. Reduced functionality mode has been a part of the initial Windows XP product activation process for retail and OEM (original equipment manufacturer) installations since its launch, and, similarly, Windows Vista will have a reduced functionality mode but one that is enhanced. Reduced functionality mode in Windows Vista will allow the user to use the browser after the reduced functionality mode has begun. Reduced functionality mode can occur as a result of failed product activation or of that copy being identified as counterfeit or non-genuine. In most cases customers will be able to correct this situation quickly with the options provided. With the tools in place for OEMs, and small to large customers, we expect that most customers should never be affected by having a non-genuine installation.
ALSO THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH MICROSOFTS SERVERS FLAGGING MACHINES AS NOT GENUINE WHEN IN FACT THEY WERE. GO TO THIS SITE TO FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS SEE IF THATS THE CASE . UNLESS U ALREADY KNOW IT'S NOT LEGIT.
Get genuine: How can I take advantage of the Microsoft genuine Windows offer?
What is the genuine Windows offer?
Q: What is the genuine Windows offer?
A: The Microsoft genuine Windows offer is designed to help customers who unknowingly purchased counterfeit versions of Windows XP by offering those who qualify a complimentary copy or electronic license key for a genuine copy of Windows XP.
Q: What are the details of the genuine Windows offer?
A: To help customers who unknowingly purchased a counterfeit version of Windows XP, Microsoft has created two genuine Windows offers for those who qualify:
Complimentary offer: Microsoft will make a complimentary copy of Windows XP available to customers who have been sold counterfeit Windows. Customers will be required to submit a proof of purchase, the counterfeit CD, and a counterfeit report with details of their purchase. Only high-quality counterfeit Windows will qualify for the complimentary offer.
Electronic License Key Offer: Microsoft will offer an alternative for customers who find out via the WGA validation process that they are not running genuine Windows, but do not qualify for, or choose not to take advantage of, the complimentary offer. These customers will be able to license a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP directly from Microsoft for a special on-line purchase price. The Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP will include a new 25-character Product Key and a Windows Product Key Update tool that will allow customers to convert their counterfeit copy to genuine Windows XP electronically.
Q: How is the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP different from the product available from resellers?
A: Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP is packaged differently and is only distributed by Microsoft directly to customers who qualify for the genuine Windows offer. It is not intended for resale.
Q: Can I install updates for Windows XP if am using Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP?
A: Yes.
Requirements and limitations of the genuine Windows offer
Q: Who can participate in the genuine Windows offer?
A: The offer is open to any person who purchased Microsoft Windows XP (Professional or Home Edition) or Windows XP Operating System pre-installed on a new computer. Windows XP upgrade purchases and purchases made under volume license agreements are not eligible.
Q: Can genuine Windows XP customers participate in the genuine Windows offer as well?
A: No. Only users of counterfeit Windows XP are eligible for the genuine Windows offer.
Q: How do customers whose counterfeit Windows came pre-installed on their PCs qualify for the complimentary offer?
A: A counterfeit disc is required in order to be eligible for the complimentary offer. This allows customers to show that a counterfeit transaction occurred. Customers who did not receive a counterfeit disk, but are willing to submit a counterfeit report regarding a fraudulent transaction, are able to qualify for the electronic license key offer.
Q: Will people who participate in the genuine Windows offer face repercussions for having illegal software?
A: Microsoft will not bring legal action against the people who participate in the genuine Windows offer.
Q: What can I use for proof of purchase?
A: Because purchase documentation varies widely, we are flexible. Proof of purchase can be a purchase order, the original supplier invoice, or some other store receipt. The proof of purchase must show the supplier’s name and address, the date of purchase, and a reference to Windows.
Q: What must I provide on the counterfeit report?
A: The counterfeit report helps Microsoft identify the reseller and type of counterfeit software transaction that took place. The information that is required on the report is:
Was the copy of Windows preinstalled?
Where was it purchased (Web, street vendor, store, etc)?
What was the reseller’s name?
Did you receive a CD and a Certificate of Authenticity (COA)?
How much did you pay?
What was the date of purchase?
You must also provide your shipping address so Microsoft can send you a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD.
Q: Why does Microsoft need this information?
A: Microsoft is collecting information on counterfeit sellers to get information on illegal practices and to work with authorities to enforce anti-piracy policies and laws. The counterfeit report will be treated by Microsoft as confidential. Microsoft devotes substantial time and energy to fighting software counterfeiting, and you can be assured that we will take appropriate action in response to your report.
Q: Will Microsoft return the counterfeit software I submit?
A: Microsoft cannot return the documentation you submit, including the counterfeit software.
Q: Is there a limit to how many copies Microsoft will allow customers to order?
A: The genuine Windows offer is limited to one order per machine. For the complimentary offer, small business customers are limited to five copies per shipping address. The offer is subject to availability.
Q: Will I have to pay for shipping and handling fees for the genuine Windows offer?
A: No. Microsoft will pay the shipping and handling costs.
Q: Can I order the genuine Windows offer from a reseller?
A: No. The genuine Windows offer is distributed by Microsoft directly to Windows XP customers who have received counterfeit Windows and qualify for the offer. It is not available for resale. However you can go to your reseller to discuss other legalization options, such as the Get Genuine Kit.
Q: Can I purchase the genuine Windows offer without going through Windows Genuine Advantage validation?
A: No. Only customers who discover through WGA validation that they are running counterfeit Windows will qualify for the genuine Windows offer.
What’s included in the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit?
Q: What do customers receive when they order the genuine Windows offer from Microsoft?
A:
If you qualify for the complimentary offer, you will receive a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP in the mail within two to four weeks of your order. The Windows Genuine Advantage Kit contains a CD with a new 25-character Product Key. You should reinstall Windows and reactivate your PCs using the CD and the new Product Key.
If you request the electronic license key offer, you will receive via email, upon confirmation of payment, your new 25-character Product Key and instructions on how to download the Windows Product Key Update Tool. You will also receive a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD via postal mail within two to four weeks of your confirmed order.
Q: Does the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD contain Service Pack 2?
A: Yes.
Q: Does the genuine Windows offer include other Microsoft products, such as Windows 2000 and Office 2003?
A: The genuine Windows offer is limited to Windows XP at this time.
Q: What technical support is available for the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP?
A: Once you convert to genuine Windows XP, you are entitled to the support available from Microsoft for genuine Windows XP. Visit http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/support/default.mspx for details.
Q: Will I be required to re-activate my version of Windows via Product Activation?
A:
If you receive the complimentary offer, you will be required to reinstall Windows with the CD you receive and activate your PC with the new 25-character Product Key that comes with the CD.
If you use the electronic key, you will have your Windows system activated automatically by the Windows Product Key Update Tool, provided with the offer.
Q: How long will it take me to receive my replacement copy?
A: If you qualify for the complimentary offer, Microsoft will send a kit to you within two to four weeks of your submission. For the electronic license key offer, Microsoft will send the electronic key and conversion tool upon payment confirmation. Timing varies by country and payment type. The physical media for the electronic license key offer will arrive by post in two to four weeks.
Q: Who can I contact with inquiries about my order?
A: For contact information to check order status, please refer to your order confirmation email. If you did not receive an email confirmation of your order or your new product key, contact your local Microsoft customer support.
After I receive the kit, how do I convert my software to genuine Windows?
Q: I purchased an electronic license and received the product key in email; what do I do?
A: To convert your counterfeit Windows XP software to a genuine copy of Windows XP using the new product key, you will need to download and run the Windows Product Key Update Tool on the same computer you used to purchase the electronic license for Windows XP. Visit http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=45668 to download the Windows Product Key Update Tool. The Windows Product Key Update tool will guide you through the conversion process and convert your counterfeit Windows XP to a genuine copy of Windows XP.
Q: How does the electronic license key work?
A:
If you pay for the electronic license key, you will receive an email confirmation with a new 25-character Product Key and instructions on where to download the Windows Product Key Update Tool, which will perform a complete scan of your Windows system files. The update tool will perform a scan of the approximately 6,000 files which make up the Windows XP distribution. If the files are unchanged from the original, the scan will pass and the genuine Windows conversion will continue.
Any differences from the original would indicate a potential vulnerability and will cause the scan to fail. If the scan fails, you will not be able to complete the online conversion to genuine Windows. You will be instructed to store your genuine Windows Product Key in a safe place and wait until your genuine Windows XP backup disc arrives via postal mail. You should then use the backup disc, along with your Product Key, to perform a clean installation of Windows XP.
Q: Why is the system scan necessary?
A: The system scan is necessary because the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit converts a counterfeit Windows XP system to genuine. Microsoft wants to take every precaution possible to ensure that the original Windows XP system files are present and undamaged so that you can have full confidence in your future experience with genuine Windows. The system scan cannot guarantee with absolute certainty that your system is safe. Re-installing your operating system from a CD provided by Microsoft as part of the transaction will provide a higher level of protection against threats associated with counterfeit software.
Q: What happens if the scan performed by the Windows Product Key Update Tool determines that one or more system files have been compromised, corrupted or tampered with?
A: You will receive the following error:
"One or more Windows files are modified or corrupted. This tool cannot be used to perform an automatic product key update. Please reinstall Windows using the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit CD."
As stated in the error text, you must re-install Windows XP from a new CD, which will be shipped to you within two to four weeks of your order.
Q: How many PCs can I install using Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP media?
A: Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP contains a Microsoft Windows XP End-User License Agreement (EULA) that limits the installation of the software to a single computer, such as a workstation, terminal, or other device ("Workstation Computer"). Please refer to the Microsoft Windows XP End-User License Agreement at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/eula.mspx (Home) or http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/sp2/proeula.mspx (Professional) for details.
2007-06-06 05:40:02
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answer #7
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answered by Joe TKU 1
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