Glossary

 

Did you come across an unfamiliar term while validating your software or while searching for other information? Use the Glossary to find definitions of common terms used on the Genuine Microsoft Software Web site.

Activation is an anti-piracy technology designed to verify that Microsoft^® software products are genuine. Activation works by verifying that the product key—the 25-character code located on your Certificate of Authenticity (usually affixed to your computer) or proof of license label (usually affixed to the installation disc case)—is authentic and is not in use on more personal computers than are permitted by the software license.