MICROSOFT HAS started implementing features in upgrades to Windows XP which specifically prevent users of pirated keys from upgrading parts of the operating system. We reported on Microsoft's plans at the Dublin System Builder Forum a month ago. Then, Microsoft said its Genuine Advantage scheme would prevent pirated copies of XP from downloading anything but the most critical downloads. Owners of pirated keys in Western Europe tell the INQUIRER that scheme has now kicked in. What this means, for example, is that if you upgrade the Media Player to version 10, and you're using a pirated copy of XP, you'll lose functionality on your machine. Microsoft said in Dublin that it would launch the scheme in China at the end of October, and throughout Europe early next year. But it appears to have implemented it early. Pirate users are being invited to either validate their copies of the operating system, or to download and pay for a full version of Windows XP. Souce: The Inquirer
*:swear: * Assuming that was the case, I can assure you that I have had no problems using WMPX...eheh... :swt:
I'm not sure if they'll ever be able to stop this. I mean, the only easy way for them to implement a cd-key system, is to do it through a logical sets of letters and numbers which can be verified by a complex algorithm (like they're doing right now). Imagine how time-consuming it would be to strap one single cd-key to a cd (Only this cd-key would work on this cd).
I don't think you could every stop people from using pirate versions of software, it would require a complex system. cd-key system could work but people will find a way around it...
People forget that what is constructed can always be de-constructed. Especially computers. They can merely make it very hard to bypass.
Actually it wouldn't be that hard. All MS has to do is what they were talking about a few years ago and make Windows & Office a web service. If you want to use their software pay a monthly or yearly fee and always have the latest version of the software.
The web service idea is interesting. But its no use to people with dial up or no internet at all. Waffle is getting a bit stressed and ninja is getting sweaty about this.
Let's just hope the cd key I have keeps working, I don't know if it's a pirated one for my friend gave it to me...He has like 9 copies of winXP pro he got for free from his dad's work... :dog: runaWAAY
Arrr.. Heh, I know this perfectly legal shop, that for some reason get given like a couple hundred copies of things like XP, Flash, Dreamweaver etc, and all the Offices 2003 for free. And as I'm friends with the owner, guess who get's dirt cheap legal software??
Not stressy, paranoid! And a sweaty ninja reminds me of that deodorant advert on TV. Any one seen it yet?
I have over 75 Legit Cdkeys that will never be used.. at work we brought machines with XP Pro on and Office 2003 however we also brought enough windows 2000 licenses to cover the new machines.. XP will never be used at company.. However obviously i would never divolge such information.
