Product authentication

  • Thread starter Thread starter Guest
  • Start date Start date
G

Guest

edI have recently heard that when you are installing as an example Windows XP
professional, your computer first authenticates your copy of the operating
system to see if it valid or not. Does anyone know if in fact this is true
and if so how is it done?
It would make sense to check that you have a valid copy after being
installed because it checks your key against already registered keys.
However, this is what would take place as the operating system is first being
installed.
This will put a workplace discussion to rest (hopefully)
 
Not that I know of. The only times XP contacts Microsoft is when activating
the serial number, or if you allow it to perform automatic updates. Both
actions require your confirmation.

There have been in-depth analyses by 'hackers'of the data sent during
activation, and the consensus seems to be that it does not disclose any
personal data.
 
Yes. The link below explains how and why this is done to reduce piracy and
make sure that the operating system is not installed on more computers than
the license allows. --- Steve

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/evaluation/features/activation.mspx

Product Activation Overview
Microsoft Product Activation is an anti-piracy technology designed to verify
that software products have been legitimately licensed. This aims to reduce
a form of piracy known as casual copying. Activation also helps protect
against hard drive cloning. Activation is quick, simple, and unobtrusive,
and it protects your privacy.

Product Activation works by verifying that a software program's product key
has not been used on more personal computers than intended by the software's
license. You must use the product key in order to install the software and
then it is transformed into an installation ID number. You use an activation
wizard to provide the installation ID number to Microsoft either through a
secure transfer over the Internet, or by telephone. A confirmation ID is
sent back to your machine to activate your product.

The installation ID number includes an encrypted form of the product ID and
a hardware hash, or checksum. No personally identifying data is included or
required. The confirmation ID is simply an unlocking code for the Windows XP
installation on that particular PC.

If you overhaul your computer by replacing a substantial number of hardware
components, it may appear to be a different PC. You may have to reactivate
Windows XP. If this should occur, you can call the telephone number
displayed on the activation screen to reactivate the software
 
Back
Top