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Below you will find a list of frequently asked questions about the benefits of buying
genuine software, how to tell if you have genuine software, the software validation
process and Microsoft’s genuine advantage programs.
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What is genuine Microsoft software?
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A: Genuine Microsoft software is published by Microsoft, properly licensed and fully supported by Microsoft or a trusted partner. Using genuine Microsoft software offers you greater capabilities and easy integration with the widest variety of hardware, software and services. It also provides confidence that you will receive the latest product features, updates, and ongoing improvements to keep your PC performing at its best.
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Q:
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Why is genuine Microsoft software better than non-genuine software?
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A: By using genuine Microsoft software, you can be confident that you will have access to the latest the features, security and support that will help to improve your productivity and expand the capabilities of your PC. You will also have access to new innovations and offerings available only to genuine software customers.
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Q:
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What are the benefits of genuine Windows?
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A: Microsoft is committed to driving education and awareness of the benefits to businesses and consumers of using genuine software. We also work closely with government to help strengthen IP laws, and we provide tools and information for consumers and businesses to help them determine whether the software they are using is genuine. By using genuine Microsoft Windows software, you can be confident that you will have access to the latest the features and support that will help to improve your productivity and expand the capabilities of your PC. You will also have access to new innovations and offerings available only to genuine Windows customers.
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Q:
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What are the benefits of using genuine Microsoft ® Windows Vista ®?
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A: A genuine copy of Windows Vista means your PC can always be up to date. Genuine Windows Vista helps protect your PC by automatically providing access to the latest updates and enhancements, which ensure your PC is running the latest technology. There is also a set of premium features that uniquely distinguish the genuine Windows Vista experience. These include Windows® Aero™, which offers a rich visual interface and innovative ways to navigate your desktop, and Windows® ReadyBoost™ which can speed up a PC using easy to find USB 2.0 memory devices.
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What is Windows Aero?
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A: Windows Aero builds on the standard Windows Vista user experience and offers Microsoft’s best-designed, highest-performing desktop experience. The Windows Aero experience includes the translucent effect of Aero Glass, featuring dynamic reflections and smooth animations. The glass windows create an open, lightweight environment ― and more importantly, help you to better focus on your content, rather than on the surrounding interface.
Two exciting new Aero features, Windows Flip and Windows Flip 3D, provide a new way to confidently manage the windows on your desktop, so you can see them in a new visually striking, yet convenient way. Beyond the new graphics and visual polish, the Windows Aero desktop experience performs as elegantly and professionally as it looks, with smoother window handling, increased graphics stability, and glitch-free visuals. All of which give you a simple, comfortable, and high-quality experience.
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Q:
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What is Windows ReadyBoost?
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A: Windows ReadyBoost lets users use a removable flash memory device, such as a USB 2.0 thumb drive, to improve system performance without upgrading the computer. Windows ReadyBoost can improve system performance because it can retrieve data kept on the flash memory more quickly than it can retrieve data kept on the hard disk, decreasing the time you need to wait for your PC to respond. Combined with SuperFetch™ technology, this can help drive impressive improvements in system responsiveness.
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Q:
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What are the Microsoft Genuine Advantage programs?
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A: Microsoft has launched the Windows Genuine Advantage Program referred to as WGA, and the Office Genuine Advantage Program referred to as OGA. Both programs allow customers to validate their Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office as genuine; this in turn provides genuine users with access to genuine only downloads, complimentary offers and tools. For more information on
WGA
click here and for more information on
OGA
click here.
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Q:
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What are the benefits of WGA and OGA for small businesses?
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A: Both WGA and OGA enable small businesses to enjoy the capabilities they expect, the confidence that their software is authentic and ongoing system improvements which help them do more with their PCs - something critical to meeting their customers' needs. Additionally, small businesses that validate their systems and software as genuine have access to a range of genuine only downloads, complimentary offers, tools and content to help them be more productive.
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Q:
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How do I know if my Microsoft software is genuine?
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A: Microsoft has a variety of tools and resources to help customers identify whether their Microsoft software is genuine or counterfeit. For Microsoft Windows and Microsoft Office you can validate your copy using the online validation tools, ‘Validate Windows’ and ‘Validate Office’. The validation process for the Windows operating system and Office application is easy to use and only takes a few moments to run, and once completed, enables you to have access to a range of complimentary downloads and offers.
To find out, how you can tell if other Microsoft products are genuine, visit our
How to tell page or look through our Counterfeit Gallery.
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What is validation?
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A: Validation is a process that helps you to verify that your Microsoft software is genuine. Microsoft will ask you to validate Windows when requesting a genuine Windows download from the Microsoft Download Centre or Windows Update and to validate Office when requesting a genuine Office download. Validation is quick and easy:
| Step 1:
Click on Validate Microsoft Office or Validate Microsoft Windows . If you have both, you’ll need to validate each separately.
Step 2:
Install the ActiveX control (you only have to do this once).
Step 3:
View your validation results. If your software is genuine, you can start enjoying the additional benefits of genuine right away. If your software isn’t genuine, not to worry – Microsoft has options designed to help you get genuine software.
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Q:
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Do all Microsoft Windows users need to validate, or is validation limited to particular versions of Windows?
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A: Update and the Microsoft Download Centre for users of Microsoft® Windows XP® and Microsoft® Windows ® 2000 (client, not server). Security updates are accessible to all users via Automatic Updates. Genuine Windows downloads are available, without validation, to customers running Microsoft Windows 98, Microsoft Windows ME, Microsoft Windows Server 2003, and Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 3. Genuine Windows downloads are not available for older versions of Windows operating systems (Microsoft Windows 95, Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 2 and earlier), and non-Microsoft operating systems.
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Q:
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What is Product Activation?
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A: Product Activation is a software-based anti-piracy technology that Microsoft implemented several years ago in a number of product releases, including Microsoft Office solutions. Product Activation is designed to prevent a common form of software piracy called casual copying, in which a consumer shares the software he or she has acquired with others outside the terms of the license agreement.
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What does Product Activation require of the user?
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A: Product Activation requires users of Microsoft software to follow a simple and anonymous process to sustain access to the software. When customers activate their software via the Internet, they provide a product identification code to generate an installation ID number (hardware identifier) to confirm Activation. No personally identifiable information is required. Activation over the Internet takes a few seconds; Activation via a Microsoft customer service representative over the telephone requires a couple of minutes.
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Q:
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Am I required to activate and/or register my Microsoft software?
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A: Activation is required for many users of Microsoft Windows and Office in order to enjoy the benefits of the software. If Windows activation is required, you will be asked to activate during Windows setup and required to complete activation within the first 30 days of initial use. If Office activation is required, you will be asked to activate the first time you run an Office application and required to activate within the first 50 launches for Office XP and Office 2003, or within first 25 launches for Office 2007. Registration is recommended, but not required.
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How does activation differ in Windows Vista compared to Windows XP?
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A: Product activation in Windows Vista ™ is similar to that of Windows XP, and requires little to no effort on the part of our customers. Activation requires users of Microsoft software to follow a simple and anonymous process to sustain access to the software. When customers activate their software via the Internet, they provide a product identification code to generate an installation ID number (hardware identifier) to confirm Activation. No personally identifiable information is required. Activation over the Internet takes a few seconds; activation via a Microsoft customer service representative over the telephone requires a couple of minutes.
The only exception is for Microsoft Volume License customers, who will utilise elements of Volume Activation 2.0 in Windows Vista, depending upon their deployment scenario.
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Q:
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Is there re-checking after initial Activation or any additional data transfer to Microsoft?
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A: The product checks itself from time to time to see if it is activated and on the same PC where it was originally activated. At no time after the initial process is information transferred to Microsoft as a result of product activation.
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What about false positives? Will they need to reactivate as well?
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A: A false positive occurs when a customer attempts to validate their genuinely licensed copy of Windows, but is incorrectly given a “non-genuine” result. False positives are a relatively rare occurrence. During these situations, Microsoft works closely with customers via our support lines and customer forum to help the user recover. In the event of a mistake, customers will have a grace period in which they will have full functionality and Microsoft support. Even if their system enters reduced functionality mode, users can enter a genuine product key at any time to activate and return to full functionality, and at no time will users be prevented from accessing their personal data.
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Q:
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What are some of the common causes of WGA validation failure?
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A: Often, users have no idea that their copy of Windows is counterfeit. The most common cause is the "repair shop" scenario. In this scenario, a genuine Windows customer takes their PC to be repaired. Unbeknownst to the customer, the repair shop installs an unlicensed copy of Windows. The customer has a genuine product key, but a non-genuine key was used to install the system. Another common scenario is someone purchases a new PC from a dishonest business that charges them for genuine software but installs a pirated copy of Windows. The user knows they have paid for a copy of Windows, but they are actually running pirated software. Microsoft provides assistance, including in some cases, a free replacement copy, for customers who experience these issues.
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Do security updates require validation?
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A: Security updates are not part of WGA. Security updates can be installed using the Windows XP Automatic Updates feature, or downloaded from the Download Centre.
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Is Microsoft able to spy on customers through the validation scan?
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A: Not at all. No personal data is collected during the validation process and it remains completely anonymous. Windows Genuine Advantage can be used safely on sensitive systems and that it does not interfere with any software programs and, therefore, it does not conflict with data protection laws.
Microsoft has commissioned TüV-IT, an independent German security auditor to test how well Windows Genuine Advantage protects customers' data. TüV-IT conducted both a legal audit of Microsoft's policies, specifications and statements, and a technical audit to determine if the program's databases, source-code and implementation respect privacy concerns.
TüV-IT has confirmed that Microsoft does not collect any personal information or process any data that would allow Microsoft to identify or contact a user. It has also confirmed that Windows Genuine Advantage can be used safely on sensitive systems and that it does not interfere with any software programs and, therefore, it does not conflict with data protection laws.
For more information on TüV-IT and their methodology, see http://www.tuvit.de.
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What information is collected from my computer?
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A: The genuine validation process will collect information about your system to determine if your Microsoft software is genuine. This process does not collect or send any personally identifiable information that can be used to identify you or contact you. The information collected in the validation process includes:
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Microsoft Windows product key
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PC manufacturer
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Operating System version
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Microsoft Windows XP product
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PC BIOS information (make, version, date)
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BIOS MD5 Checksum
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User locale setting
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Language version of the operating system
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Microsoft Office product key (if validating Office)
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Hard drive serial number
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Validation and installation results
- IP address
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How does Microsoft use this information?
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A: We may use the information collected about your system to improve our software and services, help prevent improperly licensed use of the software, and develop aggregate statistics for the following purposes:
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Microsoft Windows product key
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PC manufacturer
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Operating System version
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Microsoft Windows XP product
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PC BIOS information (make, version, date)
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BIOS MD5 Checksum
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User locale setting
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Language version of the operating system
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Microsoft Office product key (if validating Office)
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Hard drive serial number
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Validation and installation results
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IP address
To learn more about Microsoft Genuine Advantage Privacy Policy, please visit
http://www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/PrivacyInfo.aspx |
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Q:
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Will the validation process work with non-Microsoft Web browsers?
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A: Yes, you can complete the validation process using a non-Microsoft Web browser. Mozilla Firefox users: although the instructions for the validation tool executable file say to open or run the file from its current location, Firefox will not present you with either of those options. Instead, save the file to your PC and then double-click on the file to run it.
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What should I do if I have a problem with the Windows validation process?
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A: If you cannot resolve your problem using this FAQ, please use the Contact Us link at the bottom of Microsoft Download Center pages to request additional assistance. For English users, you may also access the WGA newsgroup for additional discussion and user-to-user support.
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Do I have to revalidate if I reinstall Microsoft Windows on my system?
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A: Yes. You will need to revalidate each time you reinstall the Windows operating system software. However, you will only need to validate once per reinstallation.
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Will Microsoft Windows XP Starter Edition require WGA validation?
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A: Yes, customers using the Windows XP Starter Edition operating system will be asked to validate when they request a genuine Windows download or service. System requirements for downloads vary. Some download are not supported with Microsoft Windows XP Starter Edition. See the system requirements for each download for more information.
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Do Volume License customers need to validate?
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A: Yes. Customers using a copy of Windows with a valid Volume License will be validated and given full access to all genuine Windows downloads. Volume License keys have been a source of counterfeit in some instances; therefore the WGA validation service is able to recognize and block a Volume License key that is being used improperly.
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What happens if a corporation's volume license key is stolen, and as a result fails validation?
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A: If your corporate system fails the validation process, you should contact your system administrator as soon as possible. The system administrator will know how to contact Microsoft to report the problem if necessary.
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What happens to systems with product keys that are blocked by Microsoft?
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A: Systems that were installed using a blocked key will fail validation and will be required to activate with a genuine key in order to continue working properly. New attempts to activate using blocked keys will fail.
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If a key is blocked, should the customer re-key their entire environment?
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A: Depending on the kind of block applied (global blocking, geo-blocking or subnet-level blocking) a re-keying may be required. If the underlying key is of type Multiple Activation Key (MAK) then all the systems that were previously activated using the blocked key will need to be re-keyed and re-activated. If the underlying key is of type Key Management Service (KMS) key then only the KMS host needs to be rekeyed and reactivated.
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What might cause a non-genuine state on systems running volume editions of Windows Vista in a managed environment?
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A: There are two possible root causes for a system to enter into non-genuine state on systems running volume editions of Windows Vista namely 'tampered files’ indicated through error code 0x8004C40B and ‘invalid or blocked product key’ indicated through error code 0x8004C465. For detailed instructions on how to recover from these non-genuine states, refer to Volume Activation 2.0 Technical Implementation Step-by-Step guide.
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Q:
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What triggers Online Genuine Validation for systems running volume editions of Windows Vista?
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A: Online validation is required in order to access certain content on the Microsoft Download Centre. Anti-piracy components of Windows Vista may also detect if the operating system has been tampered with or is not properly licensed. For example, discovery of tampered licensing components could require that the operating system validate, activate or be repaired or reinstalled.
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Q:
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Can enterprise customers access and distribute content that requires genuine validation without having to perform online genuine validation checks on each client system?
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A: Yes, an administrator can download updates through the Download Centre and Windows Update and then redistribute those updates via managed services such as Windows Software Update Services (WSUS) or Systems Management Server (SMS). In this scenario, only the administrator would have to validate, and if they are downloading from Download Centre, validation would only be required for the first download in the session.
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What is Windows Genuine Advantage?
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A: WGA is part of Microsoft's commitment to protect its customers and partners from counterfeiters through education, engineering and enforcement of policies and laws. WGA differentiates the value of genuine Windows software from counterfeit software enabling customers to enjoy the capabilities they expect, confidence that their software is authentic, and ongoing system improvements which help them do more with their PC.
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Q:
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Why is Microsoft doing this?
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A: WGA is part of Microsoft's commitment to protect its customers and partners from counterfeiters through education, engineering and enforcement of policies and laws. Microsoft expects that this program will cause customers to ask for, and sellers to be more likely to provide, genuine Windows XP software.
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How does WGA for Windows XP currently work?
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A: The process for WGA is designed to be quick and simple. It does not collect any personally identifiable information that can be used by Microsoft to identify or contact the user. The validation process includes the following steps:
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Upon their first visit to the Microsoft Download Center, Windows Update, or Microsoft Update, users will receive a message requiring them to validate their Windows.
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Users will be prompted to download an ActiveX control which checks the authenticity of their Windows software and, if successful in validating Windows, stores a special license file on the PC for future verification.
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The validation process electronically checks for several known counterfeiting methods. Users do not have to manually enter information in most cases.
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After successful validation, users may continue their download.
WGA Notifications is an anti-piracy tool which performs the WGA validation check and notifies users if they are not running genuine Windows.
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Q:
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What is WGA for Windows Vista?
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A: With Windows Vista, Windows Genuine Advantage is built in. WGA for Windows Vista is enabled by the Software Protection Platform (SPP), a new set of anti-piracy technologies to help Microsoft make software piracy harder and to help protect consumers and business against the risks of counterfeit software.
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What is “tampering”?
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A: There are a set of Windows system files and processes that are protected by Software Protection Platform (SPP) in order to prevent licensing hacks and work-arounds. Because changes to these files and processes can destabilise the system or open it up for further attacks, Microsoft requires tampered systems to be reinstalled from original media. Some forms of piracy may trigger the tamper response and cause Windows to require reinstallation.
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Q:
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What happens to customers who have mistakenly purchased a counterfeit version of Windows?
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What is Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) Notifications?
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A: Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications is a program that helps Microsoft fight software piracy and helps you validate that the copy of Microsoft Windows XP installed on your computer is genuine and properly licensed. By confirming that your copy of Windows XP is genuine, you can take advantage of all the capabilities, support, and continuous improvements-as well as the peace of mind-that come with using genuine Windows. If your copy is not genuine, WGA Notifications will provide periodic reminders to help you take the appropriate action. It's part of Microsoft's commitment to fight software counterfeiting and help you avoid problems before they happen.
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Q:
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Will there be WGA Notifications program for Windows Vista?
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A: WGA Notifications is a mechanism in Windows XP for notifying customers that their system might be non-genuine. By implementing new policies and technologies in the product development of Windows Vista, we hope to ensure that our customers get a genuine version of Windows Vista. WGA Notifications will not be a part of Windows Vista at the beginning, but may be considered later.
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Q:
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Why did Microsoft decide to launch a new WGA Notifications feature?
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A: Since Microsoft launched WGA worldwide in July 2005, we have validated more than 500 million systems and investigated many user enquiries. Based on this feedback and to continue to assist our honest partners drive greater awareness of the value of genuine Microsoft Windows,, Microsoft is enhancing the WGA program with the new Notifications feature. Every year, millions of consumers and businesses are hurt by counterfeit software which they have acquired unwittingly, and many companies that license legitimate software have difficulty competing with low prices offered by software pirates.
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Q:
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What changes are you making to WGA Notifications for Windows XP?
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A: We are making changes to WGA Notifications in Windows XP to make the experience similar to the Notifications experience in Windows Vista Service Pack 1. The release will only affect Windows XP Professional users. We’ve removed the installation wizard to offer a streamlined installation experience. Additionally, a new End User License Agreement (EULA) allows users to receive future updates to WGA automatically. Users who are notified that their copy of Windows XP may not be genuine will receive notifications prompting them to validate it. If a user fails to validate Windows XP after 30 days, the desktop will revert to a plain black background after 60 minutes. Additional notifications prompting the user to validate Windows XP will be given.
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Who will receive this new version of WGA
Notifications?
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A: This update will be delivered to Windows XP Professional users who download the
update from Windows Update (WU) or Automatic Updates (AU).
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| Q: | Why is this new version of WGA Notifications being delivered only to Windows XP Professional users? |
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A: Windows XP Professional is much more frequently pirated and counterfeited than other editions of Windows XP.
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| Q: | Will users of non-genuine Windows XP have their computers shut down? |
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A: No. Users whose copy of Windows XP fails validation will receive frequent notifications that they may be victims of software counterfeiting. Additionally, their desktop background will change to plain black every 60 minutes.
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| Q: | I understand that changes have been made to the WGA licensing agreement? What’s new? |
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A: The new EULA states that updates to WGA will be made automatically, so that users with genuine Windows XP software can obtain future updates without having to review them first.
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| Q: | Once I’ve agreed to the EULA, can I turn off Automatic Updates? |
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A: Because Microsoft delivers a number of updates via Windows Update, we recommend that you keep Automatic Updates running.
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| Q: | Will you notify me if you make changes to the EULA again? |
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A: Yes. If the terms of the current EULA change, you will be notified and asked to accept it. However, upon acceptance of this EULA, you will not be asked to accept modifications to the WGA Notifications program for Windows XP; they will be delivered automatically.
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| Q: | What happens if my copy of Windows XP fails validation and I want to get a genuine copy of Windows XP? How can I do this? |
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A: From any screen notifying of a failed validation, a user will be able to obtain more information on why the copy of Windows XP is not genuine, as well as resources for getting a genuine copy. Visit www.microsoft.com.au/genuine for more information. Specifically a consumer can purchase a license for a genuine copy through the resources Microsoft provides, or can purchase a Get Genuine Kit for Windows XP from a reseller. Businesses that need to purchase a significant number of licenses should contact their resellers and ask about the Get Genuine Windows Agreement, or work with their local Microsoft account team.
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| Q: |
Why does Microsoft send Windows Genuine
Advantage software through Automatic Updates?
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A: We have received feedback from customers that they appreciate the ability to
determine whether or not their reseller sold them a genuine version of Microsoft
Windows. Providing WGA through AU simplifies the validation process for customers
since they will automatically receive a notification to learn whether they are running
genuine software. Also, for customers who opt in, no personal data is collected
during the validation process and it remains completely anonymous.
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| Q: | How does Automatic Updates (AU) work? |
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A: When customers turn on Automatic Updates, Windows routinely checks the Windows
Update Web site for high-priority updates that can help protect your computer from
the latest viruses and other security threats. These updates can include security
updates, critical updates, service packs, and other important updates. Depending
on the chosen setting, Windows automatically downloads and installs any high-priority
updates or notifies users as these updates become available.
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| Q: |
I thought Automatic Updates was only to
be used for security fixes. How can you justify using AU for this?
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A: Automatic Updates is a service intended to keep customers secure by delivering
software updates and drivers that help protect against the latest publicly known
security threats and reliability issues. Because non-genuine systems have been shown
to have a greater incidence of threats, Microsoft considers WGA Notifications to
be a high-priority update that should go to all users. Also, because it does not
fit the strictest definition of a security update - the update has an anti-piracy
role as well - it is provided as optional, so users can choose whether or not to
install it.
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| Q: | What are the specific threats? |
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A: Studies indicate that pirated software can install Trojans, spyware, or other
malware, and some enable installation of Windows software but leave the system vulnerable
to take over of administrative rights so that it can be controlled or watched remotely.
IDC research, commissioned by Microsoft, shows that systems running counterfeit
software have a 17% chance of getting a virus or Trojan that can slip through current
anti-virus software. 25% of Websites that offer Windows software at prices “too
good to be true” attempt to install unwanted software such as viruses, spyware or
Trojan Horses, many of which are too sophisticated for current anti-virus software.
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| Q: | How often does the Notifier appear? |
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A: Customers running genuine Microsoft Windows will be unaffected by WGA notifications.
Users running non-genuine Windows software will see the notifications at boot and
login times, as well as periodically via a system tray bubble notification. Notifications
are displayed until the system is running genuine Microsoft Windows. Users can choose
to temporarily suppress the notifications.
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| Q: |
If I click on the hyperlink in the Notifier,
where does it take me?
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A: The Notifier directs users to a customised Web page on the Microsoft Website
where users can learn more about why their system failed, the benefits of genuine
software and how to take advantage of the genuine Microsoft Windows offer designed
to help victims of counterfeit software.
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| Q: |
Can customers remove WGA Notifications permanently?
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A: Customers will be invited to opt-in to the program. Only users who accept the
license terms will have WGA Notifications installed on their machines. Once installed,
participants will have the option to suppress notifications for some length of time.
Users will not have the option of uninstalling WGA Notifications.
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| Q: |
How will users know the WGA Notifications
are valid from Microsoft and not a spoof?
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A: Upon first reboot after installation is completed, an installation awareness
dialog box will be displayed informing users that their system has received an update
from Microsoft, which will display logon notifications and reminders if their system
is not running genuine Windows software. Users who have any questions or concerns
should contact Microsoft support.
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| Q: |
Will PCs still check back with Microsoft
every day?
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A: The daily configuration file check was removed in June 2006. It is important
to note that WGA Validation still collects information that is used to determine
whether the version of Windows software is genuine and this information is communicated
back to Microsoft. Neither validation nor notification process collects any information
that can be used to identify or contact a user.. More information on this can be
found in the privacy statement located here www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/PrivacyInfo and at www.microsoft.com/genuine/downloads/FAQ . As stated, Microsoft
will be releasing Updates to the validation tool every 90-120 days. When a customer
opts-in to the Update, a PC will run the validation check again.
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| Q: |
Will users of non-genuine Windows be blocked
from receiving security updates?
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A: No. Users will not be denied access to critical security updates. Users who have
not validated their machines as genuine, however, will not be able to install many
updates, including Internet Explorer 7.0 and Windows Defender. Microsoft strongly
recommends that users of non-genuine systems correct their problem immediately.
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| Q: |
Will non-genuine Windows Vista users be
able to receive critical security updates?
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A: Yes. Microsoft will make critical security updates available to non-genuine users
via Automatic Updates and the Download Center.
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| Q: |
What is the user experience for someone
running non-genuine Windows with WGA Notifications?
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A: Users running genuine Windows XP will see no effect after the initial installation. Users running non-genuine Windows XP will see the notifications at login time, and periodically via a system tray bubble notification, a persistent desktop notification as well as the desktop background changing every 60 minutes to a plain black background. Messages are also displayed until the system is running genuine Windows XP. Users can choose to suppress the messages. WGA Notifications will run on computers that are not running genuine Windows and direct users to the microsoft.com.au/genuine Web site, where they can learn more about the benefits of genuine software and take advantage of the offer designed to help victims of counterfeit software.
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Q:
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What is the genuine Windows offer?
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A: The Microsoft genuine Windows offer is designed to help customers who unknowingly purchased counterfeit versions of Microsoft Windows XP (Professional or Home Edition), by offering those who qualify a complimentary copy or electronic license key for a genuine copy of Microsoft Windows XP.
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Q:
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Who can participate in the genuine Microsoft Windows offer?
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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. Microsoft Windows XP upgrade purchases and purchases made under volume license agreements are not eligible.
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Q:
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What are the details of the genuine Microsoft Windows offer?
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A: To help customers who unknowingly purchased a counterfeit version of Windows XP, Microsoft has created two genuine Windows offers for those who qualify:
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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.
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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 online for a price of $158 (inclusive of GST) for Windows XP Home edition or $238 (inclusive of GST) for Windows XP Professional. 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.
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What do customers receive when they order the genuine Windows offer from Microsoft?
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A:
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Customers who qualify for the complimentary offer will receive a copy of Microsoft Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP in the mail within four to six weeks of their order. The Windows Genuine Advantage Kit contains a CD with a new 25-character Product Key. Customers should reinstall their Windows and reactivate their PCs using the CD and the new Product Key.
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Customers who request the electronic license offer will receive via email, upon confirmation of payment, their new 25-character Product Key and instructions on how to download the Windows Product Key Update Tool. Customers will also receive a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD via postal mail within two to four weeks of their confirmed order.
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What happens if a user fails validation and wants to get genuine Windows Vista software? Is there a special Windows Vista legalisation offers similar to Windows XP?
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A: Users with a non-genuine copy of Windows Vista can return to the point of purchase for a refund or a genuine copy, purchase a full retail version of Windows Vista from a local retailer or contact Microsoft to see if there are additional solutions.
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I purchased an electronic license and received the product key in email; what do I do?
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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://www.microsoft.com/genuine/selfhelp/PKUInstructions.aspx
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.
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How does the electronic license work?
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A: A complete scan of the user's PC will take place with the help of the Windows Product Key Update Tool which will be downloaded to your PC. The Tool will perform a scan of the approximately 6,000 files which make up the original Microsoft Windows XP distribution. If the files are unchanged from the original, then the scan will pass, and the genuine Windows software conversion will continue.
Any differences from the original would indicate a potential vulnerability, and will cause the scan to fail. If the scan fails, the customer will not be able to complete the online conversion to genuine Windows software. The customer will be instructed to store their genuine Windows Product Key in a safe place and wait until their genuine Microsoft Windows XP backup disc arrives via postal mail. They should then use the backup disc, along with the Product Key, to perform a clean installation of the Windows operating system.
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Why is the system scan necessary?
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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 operating system files are present and undamaged so that you can have full confidence in your future experience with genuine Microsoft 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.
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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?
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A: The user receives 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.
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As the message states, the correct action for the user to take is to re-install Windows XP operating system software from a new CD, which will be shipped to customers within four to six weeks of the order.
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Can I install updates for Microsoft Windows XP if am using Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP?
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A: Yes.
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How many PCs can I install using Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP media?
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How is the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP different from the product available from resellers?
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A: Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP is packaged differently, and is distributed directly by Microsoft only to customers who qualify for the genuine Windows offer. It is not intended for resale.
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What can I use for proof of purchase?
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A: Because purchase documentation varies widely, we are flexible. Proof of purchase can be a purchase order, the original supplier invoice, or other store receipt. The proof of purchase needs to show the supplier's name and address, date of purchase, and must include a reference to Windows.
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What must a customer provide on the counterfeit report?
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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 as follows: was the copy of Windows software preinstalled, where was it purchased (Web, street vendor, store, etc), reseller name, did you receive a CD and a Certificate of Authenticity (COA), price paid, and date of purchase. The customer must also provide their shipping address so Microsoft can send them a Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD.
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Why does Microsoft need this information?
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A: Microsoft is collecting information on counterfeit sellers in order 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 toward fighting software counterfeiting, and customers can be assured that we will take appropriate action in response to their report.
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Will Microsoft return the counterfeit software submitted by customers?
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A: Microsoft cannot return the documentation submitted by customers, including the counterfeit software.
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Is there a limit to how many copies Microsoft will allow customers to order?
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A: The genuine Microsoft Windows offer is limited to one order per machine. For the complimentary offer, small business customers can order up to five copies per shipping address. The offer is subject to availability.
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Will customers have to pay for shipping and handling fees for the genuine Windows offer?
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A: No. Microsoft will pay the shipping and handling costs.
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Q:
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Can customers order the genuine Microsoft Windows offer from a reseller?
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A: The genuine Windows offer is distributed directly by Microsoft to Windows XP customers who have received counterfeit Windows software and qualify for the offer. It is not available for resale.
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Can customers purchase the genuine Microsoft Windows offer without going through Windows Genuine Advantage validation?
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A: No. Only customers who discover through WGA validation that they are running counterfeit Windows software will qualify for the genuine Windows offer.
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Q:
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Can genuine Microsoft Windows XP customers participate in the genuine Windows offer as well?
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A: No. Only users of counterfeit Windows XP software are eligible for the genuine Microsoft Windows offer.
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Q:
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Does the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP CD contain Service Pack 2?
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A: Yes.
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Does the genuine Windows offer include other Microsoft products such as Microsoft Windows 2000 and Microsoft Office 2003?
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A: The genuine Windows offer is limited to Microsoft Windows XP only at this time.
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Who can customers contact for inquiries concerning their order?
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A: For contact information concerning order status, please refer to your order confirmation email.
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What technical support is available for the Windows Genuine Advantage Kit for Windows XP?
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Will customers be required to re-activate their version of Microsoft Windows via Product Activation?
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A:
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Customers who receive the complimentary offer will be required to reinstall Microsoft Windows with the CD they receive and activate their PC with the new 25-character Product Key that comes with the CD.
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Customers who use the electronic key will have their Windows operating system activated automatically by a utility, called the Windows Product Key Update Tool, provided with the offer.
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Q:
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Will people who participate in the genuine Microsoft Windows offer face repercussions for having illegal software?
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A: Microsoft will not bring legal action against the people who participate in the genuine Windows offer.
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How long will it take me to receive my replacement copy?
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A: For the complimentary offer, Microsoft will send a kit to customers who qualify in within two to four weeks of their submission. For the electronic license 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 offer will arrive by post in 4 to 6 weeks.
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How do customers whose counterfeit Windows software came pre- installed on their PCs qualify for the complimentary offer?
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A: A counterfeit disc is required in order to be eligible for the complimentary offer. This enables 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 key offer.
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What is Office Genuine Advantage (OGA)?
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A: OGA is part of Microsoft’s commitment to protect its customers and partners from counterfeiters through education, engineering and enforcement of policies and laws. OGA differentiates the value of genuine Office software from counterfeit software enabling customers to enjoy the capabilities they expect, confidence that their software is authentic, and ongoing system improvements which help them do more with their Microsoft Office software solutions.
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Q:
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So, why would a customer want to identify their Microsoft Office software as genuine? What’s in it for them?
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A. OGA Notifications is a program that helps Microsoft fight software piracy and helps customers validate that the copy of Microsoft Office installed on their computer is genuine and properly licensed. By confirming that copy of Office is genuine, customers can take advantage of all the capabilities, support, and continuous improvements—as well as the peace of mind—that come with using genuine Office. Additionally, customers who discover they have purchased a non-genuine version of Microsoft Office can submit a report to Microsoft and be eligible to receive a complimentary copy of Microsoft Office. This offer is limited to one copy per PC and fives copies per ship-to address.
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Q:
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What are the benefits of genuine Office?
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A. When you choose to buy and use genuine Microsoft Office, you choose to avoid the risks and viruses associated with non-genuine software. Genuine software is supported by Microsoft and its partners, and is always eligible for important updates and downloads. You also gain access to valuable, time-saving templates and valuable add-ins, such as the ability to save Office documents as PDFs.
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Q:
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How can you validate a copy of Office?
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A. Customers can validate their Office software here.
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Q:
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What will customers experience when they validate their software?
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A. The validation process is designed to be quick and simple and includes the following steps:
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Upon customers’ first attempt to obtain an Office Online template from within an Office application or certain downloads from the Microsoft Download Center, they will receive a message inviting them to participate in OGA.
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Customers will be prompted to download an ActiveX control which checks the authenticity of their Microsoft Office software.
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The validation process electronically checks for several known counterfeiting methods. Users do not have to manually enter information.
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After successful validation, the customer may continue their download.
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Q:
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What versions of Office are supported by the OGA validation process?
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A. Eligible products include Office XP and later suites, as well as individual Office 2002 and later applications (such as Word and Excel).
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Q:
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Can one copy of Office be used on multiple PCs?
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A: In general, Microsoft Office is licensed for use on a single PC and cannot be shared among multiple PCs. Exceptions include copies of Office licensed under a Volume License agreement, as well as some retail versions that may allow for a second installation on a portable device. If you receive a copy of Office pre-loaded on your PC, you cannot transfer the license to another PC. Refer to the End-user License Agreement for your copy of Office for more information.
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Q:
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What would prevent my copy of Office from successfully completing the validation process?
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A. The validation process will not complete successfully in any of the following scenarios:
- Your operating system does not support the OGA validation tool.
- The product key used to install Office is missing or invalid.
- The product key used to install Office is misused, stolen, or false and has been blocked by Microsoft.
- You have not yet activated Office (activation can be accomplished by starting any Office application and following the instructions).
No supported Office products were found on your computer. This may be because you are using a previous version of Office or because the copy of Office you use is hosted on another computer or terminal server.
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Q:
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Does Microsoft plan to help customers who are running counterfeit copies of Office obtain legitimate software?
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A. The Genuine Office Complimentary Offer is designed to help customers who unknowingly purchased counterfeit versions of Microsoft Office XP or later versions by offering those who qualify a complimentary copy of Office. 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 Office will qualify for the complimentary offer.
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Q:
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What other options does an Office customer have when they find out that they are running counterfeit software?
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A. In addition to the complimentary offer outlined above, the customer has several options which can be viewed here.
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What is an ActiveX control, and how is it used in the validation process?
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A: An ActiveX control is a small executable code package that users of Internet Explorer
can download and run on their PCs. The Windows Genuine Advantage validation process
uses the ActiveX control to check the authenticity of your Windows software. If
the ActiveX control successfully validates your Windows software, then it stores
a special download key on your PC for future use.
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Q:
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Are ActiveX controls safe to run on my PC?
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A: ActiveX controls are officially signed with their publisher's name, which enables
you to judge for yourself whether or not they are safe to run on your PC. The official
signature is listed prominently in a dialog box that is displayed before the control
is installed on your system. If an ActiveX control does not contain a valid publisher
signature, Internet Explorer will prompt you with a security warning and prevent
you from downloading it to your PC.
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Q:
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How do I know if the ActiveX control used
by WGA is safe to run on my PC?
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A: The first time you request a genuine Windows download from the Download Center or
Windows Update, you will be asked to install an ActiveX control. The ActiveX control
used by Windows Genuine Advantage is signed by Microsoft Corp. If you do not see
sufficient evidence of this signature, then you should not download the control.
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Q:
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What if I have trouble running the ActiveX
control?
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A: If you have trouble running the ActiveX control, an alternative method is available
which entails running a small executable file. A link for the executable file is
available on the page containing the instructions for the ActiveX control.
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Q:
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Some companies do not allow employees to
install ActiveX. How does WGA validation
process work?
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A: Users can validate using the alternative method which entails running a small executable
file. A link for the executable file is available on the page containing the instructions
for the ActiveX control.
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Q:
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What is Office Genuine Advantage notifications?
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A. Customers in select countries around the world have the option to install OGA notifications to learn whether or not they are running genuine Office. People who learn they are using non-genuine versions of Office will be directed to a customized Microsoft Web page to learn about their validation results and solutions to become genuine.
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Q:
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Why did Microsoft decide to launch notifications?
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A. Every year, millions of consumers and businesses are hurt by counterfeit software. OGA notifications helps protect consumers who unwittingly acquire counterfeit software. The program helps those individuals take action to get genuine and ensure they are using Office software that is properly secured and supported. And OGA notifications helps businesses that license genuine Office software by leveling the competitive playing field.
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Q:
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What will Office customers see if their software isn’t genuine?
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A: Customers will receive a pop-up dialog box alerting them their Office software is not genuine. The customer will receive this dialog box the first time they open an Office application each day, and again two hours later for a period of 30 days. This dialog box offers two options. The customer can select “Learn More” and be taken to an OGA web site that explains their validation results and offers step-by-step options to get genuine. Or, the customer can select “Remind me later” to close the dialog box. After receiving this dialog box notification for 30 days, Office applications will be marked with a visual reminder that the copy of Office is not genuine. Both the dialog box and/or the visual reminder will disappear once the customer gets genuine Office. None of the visual cues presented will impair a customer from accessing their data or reduce software functionality.
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Q:
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Are Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) and Office Genuine Advantage (OGA) the same program?
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A: No. Though WGA and OGA are both part of Microsoft’s commitment to protecting its customers and partners from counterfeiters through education, engineering, and enforcement of policies and laws –each of the programs behave differently, with a different user experience.
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Q:
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How does OGA notifications work for customers?
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A. The customer downloads notifications via Microsoft Update (after consenting to a supplementary license terms). The customer’s copy/copies of Microsoft Office are then validated. If the result is genuine, the process is complete. If the result is not genuine, the customer will begin receiving dialog box notifications.
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Q:
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Which suites will be impacted by OGA notifications?
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A. All Office XP, 2003 and 2007 suites.
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Q:
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Can customers remove OGA notifications permanently?
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A. Customers are invited to download the notifications control from Microsoft Update. Only users who accept the license terms will have notifications installed on their machine. Once installed, participants will have the option to suppress notifications for some length of time. Customers will not have the option of uninstalling notifications.
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