Can Windows Ever be Yours?
Microsoft is getting more serious with genuine copies of Windows being owned by its users. The windows genuine advantage is a program that checks to see if you are using genuine copy of Windows. You are not bound to receive any updates (and special offers) without passing the genuine advantage. It is a software that installs on your computer and connects with the Microsoft server to check the validity of the installation key used. Watch an online demo of the validation process.
So, even after purchasing Windows for an exorbitant price and even after paying that amount, the Windows that you install is still not yours until you pass the genuine advantage and seek updates every other day.
Microsoft’s Digital Rights Management (DRM) is designed to protect Microsoft from piracy. Evoking memories of RealNetworks efforts to protect themselves from their loyal customers, innocent Microsoft officials explained to the discoverer, Lauren Weinstein, that this constant DRM enforcer is obviously not a constant DRM enforcer.
Microsoft admits that during the process of validation, they record the IP address and timestamp along with date. Thus Microsoft knows your computer’s geographic location when you are online and YOU ARE BEING TRACKED. So, in essence Microsoft still owns your Windows and not only Windows but also your privacy. BEWARE.
James Dunlop Said:
on June 16, 2006 at 11:45 am
What on Earth do you mean by “YOU ARE BEING TRACKED”? Anytime your computer contacts Microsoft’s servers for an update, with the EXISTING structure, they’ll get your IP address. Anytime you browse a website, that website knows your IP address. Any time you contact any other computer, anywhere on Earth, they know your IP address.
They can just associate it with a client account now.. but again, the same is true on ANY website you give your personal information to. And you can still work offline, with no access to updates, patches, or the Internet, if you’re really scared that Microsoft will “own” your copy of Windows.