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Protecting Your Business: New Anti-Piracy Efforts & Licensing for System Builders (February 04, 2005)

Published: February 17, 2005

Please note: Portions of this transcript have been edited for clarity

Introduction

SteveWin [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Welcome to today’s chat: “Protecting Your Business: New Anti-Piracy Efforts & Licensing for System Builders.”
Thank you for joining us.

Start of Chat

LGP (Expert):
Q: I have used the piracy hotline, 6 months later the company is still using the illegal software, how long does the whole process take?
A: Hi David - Here is a link that might help http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/Reporting_FAQ.mspx

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I have used the piracy hotline, 6 months later the company is still using the illegal software, how long does the whole process take?
A: Unfortunetly, for all those involved, the process can take a very long time. We have an active test-purcase program, but often these resellers are very smart and will sell a mix of genuine and non-genuine so that when our test purchasers buy, they may be given genuine. They may have received a cease and desist letter, and, if they are still selling illegally, hopefully we'll get them soon with a test purchase!

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: What happens when I have a long time client the rquests service and I find (upon WGA process) that his OS is not legal?
A: We realize that this can be a difficult topic to raise with your client. We'd suggest that you simply be open and honest. Then tell them what you suspect and why. They can use the report that they'll receive from the failed authentication process and take that back to the reseller where they purchased the software to demand resolution. Report the reseller via the piracy@microsoft.com alias. Also, the kit you will receive if you attended the webcast will include some objection-handling best practices. Good luck! We appreciate your support.

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I just realized my "OnePlus" distributiuons do not have a cola sticker, so the case has no sticker. Should I be concerned?
A: Hi Steve, yes, you should be concerned. If you purchase OEM Microsoft software it should include 1) media, 2) COA, and 3) documentation. If it doesn't include those three things, you've been had. Selling any of those three things alone is in violation of the new Anti-Piracy Act and as criminal penalties. Does the reseller that you purchased offer a return policy? In the future, remember the only ASSURED source of genuine is to go to one of our 13 authorized distributors, "OnePlus" is not one of them.

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Where can I get for assistance with the OPK tools?
A: Please visit http://oem.microsoft.com/script/ContentPage.aspx?pageid=552859

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Do I need to use the OPK to install WinXP OEM in a whitebox?
A: Yes, you have to use the OPK tools to Install OEM Products.

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Q: I work on alot of Dells,HP,Gateways ETC. that are preloaded. When these systems harddrive crashes How do we as techs legally reload these systems?
A: If the systems come with recovery CDs for the PCs, you may replace the hard drive and use the CD to recover the system. Frequently, these systems ship with Hard Disk based recovery systems, so if the Hard Drive goes bad, you/your customer has to contact the manufacturer to obtain a CD for recovery purposes. They usually need a serial number for the PC and purchase details like Invoice number, etc to authenticate that the PC was one of theirs.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Is there a way to purchase a legal replacement COA for damaged or removed COA's?
A: System Builder
Option #1 Call 800# (800) 227-6197 and follow the Prompts
OR
Option #2 send an email to sysbuilder@qmsfife.com and follow the directions. Both of these options will require the system builder to fill out a form and Fax it in. Qmedia will then check the COA and send out a replacement copy. System Builders will not be charged.
End User
Option #1 Call 800# (800) 227-6197 and follow the prompts.
Option #2 Send an email to enduser@qmsfife.com
End Users will be charged $45 per copy of the software and will be able to pay by credit card.

LGP (Expert):
Q: What happens when I have a long time client the rquests service and I find (upon WGA process) that his OS is not legal?
A: A.If your customer failed validation - Microsoft recommends the following steps to customers: First, turn on Automatic Updates to make sure your customers system is being protected while you are resolving the problem. Second, use the resources on the Windows Genuine Advantage pages to learn how to recognize genuine Windows software. You can also look at a print out of the validation report to see what happened. (Assume that your customer got their PC from another source?)

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Everyone remember to hit the submit as question radio button before submitting the question so it will make it into the cue

Sherri (Expert):
Q: what is the easiest way to identify a pirated software
A: Go to www.microsoft.com/howtotell to determine if what you are seeing is likely to be counterfeit. You may report piracy from this site as well.

randbru (Expert):
Q: What should I do when I find that a new client has OS that is not legal - he has COA for all machines but COMPLETE Media for about half the machines? Does the client suffer consequence even though he was led to believe he was bying Genuine?
A: The customer will need to acquire new licenses. He would need to go back to the person he acquired the suspicious SW from to see if he can get a refund

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I have a business locally that deals continually illegally and I then end up making my end-users repurchase legit software. I have reported this business; however nothing has been done to rectify this situation what is my next step?
A: That is so frustrating! Unfortunetly things can often take a long time to make happen. We have an active test purchase process in place and if a reseller sells non-genuine Windows, they're sent a cease and desist letter that often will rectify the situation. We like to think that most people are honest and like to do the right thing. However, if they continue to sell non-genuine, I bet you can imagine how long it takes to build a legal case. Be patient, continue to send their name to piracy@microsoft.com. We thank you for your support and advocacy in protecting Intellectual Property rights. Keep at it!

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Where can I find the correct information on preinstalling XP SP2
A: Please visit http://oem.microsoft.com/script/ContentPage.aspx?pageid=552859

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: What should we do with pirated software when presented too us for reinstall?
A: We realize that this can be a difficult topic to raise with your client. We'd suggest that you simply be open and honest. Then tell them what you suspect and why. They can use the report that they'll receive from the failed authentication process and take that back to the reseller where they purchased the software to demand resolution. Report the reseller via the piracy@microsoft.com alias. Also, the kit you will receive if you attended the webcast will include some objection-handling best practices. Good luck! We appreciate your support.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Could you elaborate on the internet activation disabled statement please?
A: Microsoft will disable internet activation for all Microsoft Windows XP product keys located on the Certificate of Authenticity (COA) labels from the large, direct OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturer). This will stop the activation of ID keys on taken from a large OEM system and resold to a PC not licensed for the license

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: What is the exact hardware that OEM versions of software can be sold with? Is it mainly any internal hardware?
A: Any non-peripheral hardware qualifies.

randbru (Expert):
Q: i have a customer who has slip streamed sp2 into his win xp install and made a backup cd. he has asked me to make sure he is still legal for updates. and if now why not
A: An end user may make a back up copy, and yes SP2 can be slipped in if they have a genuine license for Windows XP Pro

Sherri (Expert):
Q: About WGA. I'm seeing questions in a newsgroup I answer queries in from users who feel they have legit software but fail the WGA check. Give me some phrasing I can use in a newsgroup context to suggest next steps for these folks?
A: Many customers are genuinely unaware that what they have is not legit. Customers are instructed to go back to their OEM/System Builder reseller with a copy of the WGA report that says it is not genuine. The OEM/SB reseller would need to work with the customer to correct the situation by providing legit software. It is possible that the OEM/SB reseller was also duped -- if they did not purchase from an Authorized Microsoft Distributor there is more risk, and if they bought standalone components online there is high risk.

randbru (Expert):
Q: I have used the piracy hotline, 6 months later the company is still using the illegal software, how long does the whole process take?
A: Sometimes it could take a while. Each lead is followed up on, and a process is followed to ensure a fair opportunity for all. Stay tuned, as each lead is followed up on.

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: What about using the Action Pack software? There are no COA's with that software.
A: The only legal use for the Action Pack software is for running your internal business. As part of the action pack you are granted a certain number of internal-use licenses. Since the Action Pack software is not for resale, it would not include COAs.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Is there any difference or restrictions on selling a preinstalled software package and having the client register and activate the software, or doing it for them when requested to?
A: The end user should activate, an accept the EULA. HOwever, the System Builder can pre-activate for the end user-

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Submitting for Butch: What do people who bought what they thought were computers with legal Windows XP and now find that they have pirated software?
A: We are looking at options, but don't have an official answer for you yet. If this happens in the meantime, the customer should go back to the SB and figure out what happened.

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Q: I have a question I'm about to purchase a dual processor server with SQL standard do I need to buy SQL Server 2000 for each processor kind of confuse?+
A: There are currently two ways to license SQL Server. On a CAL basis and on a Per CPU basis. In other words, if you expect thousands of connections, then Per CPU may be cheaper, but if there are smaller finite connections, then the per CAL licensing is better dollar wise. You can do the math easily at www.ms-gearup.com with the new configurator.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Where can I find more information on authentication and when does it start
A: www.microsoft.com/genuine Great site, lots of great info

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: is there a reason I am not seeing any activity in here?
A: There is a ton of activity...quit out and come back in

randbru (Expert):
Q: Is there anyway to secure the OEM info file (txt) so it connot by alterd by third party software?
A: There is no method for that

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: This is very confusing with all the questions being tossed about I like the inline questioning being answered through the event broadcast much better.
A: Thank you for that feedback, this is the first time we tried it this way, we will review all the feedback and decide how we do this for next week's webcast. All of the questions and answers will be posted on the technet transcript site so that you can review at your leisure. You may also want to look over the content on the OEM website, go to www.microsoft.com/oem/licensing.

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: OPK Tools will support Sata when?
A: If it doesn't see the SATA drive you have to create custom WinPE

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: look up above
A: Ahhh...the sky is falling!!! :)

LGP (Expert):
Q: Is the "genuine check" 100% accurate? How can I be 100% sure I have genuine software?
A: Hey SoCalDave - Yes - if a computer goes thru the Windows Validation process it is recognized by Microsoft as being a genuine copy of Windows. You can see more info here: http://www.microsoft.com/resources/howtotell/ww/default.mspx

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: The action pack has 2 conflicting pieces of info associated with it...one is it is a NFS licence....other is it has 10 licences included...COAs of ae those 10 licence the NFS licenses
A: So, you have the right to copy and use the software on up to 10 machines inside your business. None of the software is for resale.

LGP (Expert):
Q: Is the authentication process any different with Not For Sale (NFS) releases?
A: I do not it should be -- as there should be a Product key that would be used for the validation process

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: As System builders do we have too install through OPK ar is there an option at customer request?
A: As a system builder you have to use the OPK Tools to load the OEM OS.

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: "Attend the webcast and receive a free Genuine Windows Licensing Kit including the sought after Genuine Windows t-shirt!", Is that true? Saw it in this webcasts write up?
A: If you attended the webcast and entered your contact information, yes, we will send the kit to you in about six weeks.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Could someone define "support"? How long and what exactly must we support when we pre-install an OS? Is it the standard 7 years support cycle of OSs? Legal wording/formulation would be great here.
A: Support would be for the life of the PC, or your warranty for OS support. The 7 year support is for QFE and updates, which is Microsoft's job. Yours would be to ensure the customer recieved windows support. Please see the SB license for actual wording, which is on www.microsoft.com/oem/sblicense

randbru (Expert):
Q: Is a mouse considered non peripheral for oem OS?
A: Yes

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Q: "Attend the webcast and receive a free Genuine Windows Licensing Kit including the sought after Genuine Windows t-shirt!", Is that true? Saw it in this webcasts write up?
A: Yes, it is true. As long as you provided all required information during your webcast registration, you should expect the kit in the mail in 4 to 6 weeks. Enjoy! :)

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I do a lot of PC repair where I have to reformat the HDD and reload the OS. On Dells, Gateways, etc. how will I be able to re-activate the OS after Feb?
A: You will have to call in to the 800 number...Internet activation will be prohibited...:)

Sherri (Expert):
Q: Is the "genuine check" 100% accurate? How can I be 100% sure I have genuine software?
A: Unfortunately (and realistically) no technology is 100% accurate. We have, however, found no evidence of inaccuracies in the "genuine check" to date. If you suspect that you may have non-genuine software, you can check www.microsoft.com/howtotell to see if yours appears genuine or not. You may also work with your reseller to see if they are buying through Authorized Microsoft Distribution channels. If they are not, you are at risk of obtaining non-genuine software. If they are, and you do not see evidence of non-genuine on the How to Tell site, it is likely that you are. If your concern is large and you want to submit your software to Microsoft for product ID verification, you can discuss this with your account manager or partner.

LGP (Expert):
Q: With all systems, do we have to have the COA actually attached to the system? Or could we leave it with the CD?
A: Every new PC preinstalled with Windows should include a Certificate of Authenticity label. The Certificate of Authenticity should be affixed to the PC chassis. For tablet PCs and other small devices, the Certificate of Authenticity label may be affixed under the battery. COAs cannot be purchased separately.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Could someone define "support"? How long and what exactly must we support when we pre-install an OS? Is it the standard 7 years support cycle of OSs? Legal wording/formulation would be great here.
A: Did we cover this?

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: I spend some of my time refurbishing donated systems. Some of the systems come from Large OEM manufactures that do not attach COA's to the computers. They come in with OS installed. Can I reinstall using the Prod ID that is in the registary and is it legal
A: No, please look at this website http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentpage.aspx?PageID=552847

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Is a mouse considered non peripheral for oem OS?
A: Yes

Sherri (Expert):
Q: What if a users machine is now defunct, (Trashed), can he use his xp pro licence on a new machine?
A: The answer is "no" if the Windows license was installed by the OEM and is an OEM version of the software. The Windows license stays with the computer if it was an OEM installed OS.

randbru (Expert):
Q: If a customer bought a copy of Windows XP and put it on one of their old machines and a week later that machine dies, can we build them a new one and use that copy of XP?
A: If a defective motherboard is replaced, the OS can be reinstalled. OEM software cannot be tranfered to a new PC for upgrade.

Sherri (Expert):
Q: What if a users machine is now defunct, (Trashed), can he use his xp pro licence on a new machine?
A: (I wasn't done answering and hit "send") However, if you have a retail version of Windows that was purchased as "Full Packaged Product" you do have some transfer rights. Please refer to your EULA to understand what these rights are.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Why do several of the Microspft listed ditributors not list OEM pricing for their software?
A: It is up to the distributors how they market Microsoft products. Some opt to have a call for price listing for Microsoft OEM products

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: If a customer bought a copy of Windows XP and put it on one of their old machines and a week later that machine dies, can we build them a new one and use that copy of XP?
A: If the motherboard is defective you can replace it and reload it with the original OS and COA. If you replace the motherboard as an upgrade then they have to purchase a new OS.

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Why Am I not seeing any activity
A: Let me know via private chat if it doesn't clear up.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I know it's a "different," licensing agreement for the big guys, but that sure gives the smaller system builder a disadvantage. These guys started out in garages also. My2cents
A: We hear you. All the experts on this chat are here to fight for the System Builder. We are trying to help...:)

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Can we get a copy of all these Q&A's ...this is great.
A: sure, email us at bobtalk@microsoft.com and we'll email it to you.

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I spend some of my time refurbishing donated systems. Some of the systems come from Large OEM manufactures that do not attach COA's to the computers. They come in with OS installed. Can I reinstall using the Prod ID that is in the registary and is it legal
A: The machines from large OEMs ALL should have the COA sticker on them. It's a requirement of the OEM agreement. There is a possibility that the COA sticker was removed and resold or used illegally. No, you can't reinstall with the key in the registry, it'll fail. You need a valid COA. If it's a non-profit, you can go to Techsoup.com and make a request for a software donation, Microsoft is a partner with Techsoup.

Sherri (Expert):
Q: What happens to customers who thoght they bought a legal version of xp on there pc.... but now find it's not and have no one to return to , to complain about ?
A: It sounds like that customer has been duped by the seller. Unfortunately, they may not have recourse with the seller if they cannot reach them, but the customer would be able to purchase a retail version of Windows as Full Packaged Product and install it on the PC to become legit.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I have used my "One Plus" distributions (received from attending a TS2 seminar) as figts to my valued customers or free give-aways to attend one of my security seminars, am I violating anything by doing this ? I do no resell it.
A: As long as you are not selling it you are good to go. We refer to it as seeding...:)

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: I know some people are slipstreaming the original SP-1 CD with the SP2 service pack. If this is the only way to reinstall the operating system, why does MS not allow it?
A: Using the OPK Tools to slipstream updates is ok to do. What's important is that the customer recieves the manual, original CD, and the COA is affixed to the side of the computer.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Why are Dell,Gateway, Hp ETC not required to issue CD's with their systems this would make it easier on all parties envolved to restore systems at field level. It may also cut down on some of the pirating if the end-user already had software in hand.
A: Large OEms have the option of supplying hard disk recovery or restoration disks. They do not provide fully installable Windows media. It is up to the OEM

LGP (Expert):
Q: What about the e-mails with sites that will let you download windows or office OEM? Are you going after them?
A: I do know that our legal teams do track the sites that they are aware of, but if there are more that are impacting your customers & business please report them to the piracy reporting (piracy.microsoft.com)

randbru (Expert):
Q: I bought a legitimate copy of windows xp professional. Will I be able to use the same copy in one of my other machines or what is the proper procedure for that.
A: Each system needda Windows license, so you would need to acquire a license for each PC using Windows. OEM license is not transferable

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: So is it correct to assume that the action pack software does not require activation because it has now COA?
A: It still requires activation, the software does have product keys. COAs are for OEM software only.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: "OnePlus" is a distribution from the TS2 program; I assume that is Microsoft. The Windows XP package contains the CD in a full size CD case, with inserts and the product key on the back. The CD hologram says Version 2002, so I presume it pre-dates SP1.
A: I would think so as well. Once it is installed you can go to Windows Update to find out for sure.

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Q: SO DELL CD OS need to be installed on DELL systems
A: Direct OEM Licensed OS CDs should be system-locked, ie will only install in hardware manufactured by the Direct OEM it was licensed to.

randbru (Expert):
Q: I have noticed that some of the "large distributors" have split the 3 pack into individual SKU's, is that cool with Microsoft. Is is OK for me to purchase a single copy with a COA?
A: Yes, as long as individual COA/CD/manual packs are accompanied with non-peripheral HW

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Is it also correct to assume now that the OEM system builder cannot reinstall an OS but the end user can with a full retail copy then does that not discurage the consumer from purchasing a OEM build?
A: No really. A retail pack is typically more expensive. You can reinstall OEM OS for the end user if the system requires repairs.

LGP (Expert):
Q: What web site can I direct My clients to make sure their products are legal is it like the update site IE automatic
A: You can point your customers to www.microsoft.com/genuine the site has info on how to tell genuine windows. The site will also point customers to the Windows Genuine Advantage validation process so that people can get additional offerings (e.g. PhotoStory 3 for free) & check to see if they are genuine users

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I had one client bring his sony in with the restore kit (self made by thier instructions) wanting me to re-install his software. Is this legal for me to do?
A: Yes, if the Sony machine has the COA and came with a restore CD, it is okay for you to reinstall as a service..hope you charge for it! :)

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: 8-| LOL.... What about the "FREE T-Shirt (G) "
A: If you attended the webcasts and filled out your contact info, you will rcieve in 4-6 weeks...:)

randbru (Expert):
Q: I cannot validate products loaded with PC because they have OEM as part of product key. I called HP on that and their only response was 'never mind'. I do not have any other product key for brand new XP SP2 64-bit system I just purchased from HP. Don't ha
A: The validation site is looking for the 25 digit alpha-numeric number on the COA (Certificate of Authenticity) sticker, not the PN the OEM may have included on the invoice. You cann see this on www.microsoft.com/genuine

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I see alot of OS questions is there provisions in place for other MS product verification?
A: What exactlydo you mean? Sorry, I am confused...

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Did I misunderstand? A customer may purchase WinXP PRO (not home) to be able to install Win2K?
A: Yes they can. It's called down grade rights. Only the customer can request it. Please visit http://oem.microsoft.com/script/ContentPage.aspx?pageid=552836 for more information.

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Q: 8-| LOL.... What about the "FREE T-Shirt (G) "
A: We do give away a kit for registering and attending one of our WebCasts. For example, if you attended the one just before this and provided the required registration information, you should receive the kit in 4 to 6 weeks.

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: whats this reregisting xp evertime you change CD drives or type?
A: If you change several hardware components it will cause you to have to reactivate. I'm not familiar with changing a CD drive causing that though.

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: : I had one client bring his sony in with the restore kit (self made by thier instructions) wanting me to re-install his software. Is this legal for me to do?"
A: Yes, as long as he has the COA on the side of the computer. Typically Sony uses a restore disk.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Will all internet activation be turned off??
A: Internet activation will not be tuerned off. Certain ID keys will be reset so they are not able to be activated, but this only affects large OEMs proeuct, and there is an alternative for those end users

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: On occasion I have had to purchase and install a retail version of the OS to install on a clients' system. I have two questions: 1. Is the OPK available outside the SB packs? and 2. How would I install the software without accepting the EULA for the client
A: 1. The OPK is available in Action pack as well as the OEM 3 packs. 2. Have the client write you a letter of permission, keep on file. In general, you know it will always be less expensive to pre-install with the OEM version.

Sherri (Expert):
Q: Not long ago it was impossible to locate information at the Microsoft site regarding Stand Alone COA's - so we might have put some out there - some of us were duped - what recorse do we have as system builders?
A: It has never been legal to sell standalone components; the COA serves only to authenticate the software that it accompanies. We have listened to partners who say they need better education, and there is now a page on www.microsoft.com/piracy/partners/YourPC_COAs that explains the risks of buying standalone. Your best recourse is to return to whomever sold you the standalone COAs and demand a refund. You may also report them to piracy@microsoft.com. Fortunately, the US now has a law that makes selling genuine components a criminal offense so Microsoft can now do more to go after infringers on behalf of honest partners. the best course of action going forward is to purchase from Microsoft Authorized Distributors.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Did the session after the 3pm est Protecting your business end or was I just bounced out of the chat
A: Session ended

randbru (Expert):
Q: I see alot of OS questions is there provisions in place for other MS product verification such as Office, Works ETC.?
A: We will continue to expand the www.microsoft.com/genuine site for other products as appropriate

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Then how do we get the good software with action pack operating systems?
A: Not sure what your question is, Marty, but you can find more information on Action Pack at www.microsoft.com/partner/actionpack

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: If a machine was activated 6 months ago, is it's activation going to be "turned off", or is this for new installs only?
A: It will work as long as you don't have to reinstall the software. It will fail if it’s not legitimate software.

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: I lost my opk tools cd, how can I get another one? I have the reciept from Amax for the 3 pack.
A: It's part of the Action Pack if you have a subscription.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: hola
A: hola right back at you :)

randbru (Expert):
Q: My customer lost his windows xp oem media. Can I sell them the media only? Would this be considered illegal according to the new anti-counterfeiting law that just passed?
A: There is no replacement for "lost" media, only defective or broken media. However, if they have the legal COA they can use standard OEM media for image, use the ID key and activate the SW via telephone with the legal media and their COA (on the same PC)

LGP (Expert):
Q: Can MS Office be install on 1 Clients personnel computer and laptop at the same time?
A: Yes you can maintain 2 copies of Office running on 2 separate computers

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I asked this question at a TS2 event. I like to see a website or tool that we can type in the product ID or COA code to verify that Windows or Office is legit. is there such a tool or website at this time?
A: We are looking at something like this, but the issue is figuring out a way to prevent people from phishing to get legit numbers. We heard the pain and are trying to address...thanks.

randbru (Expert):
Q: Can MS Office be install on 1 Clients personnel computer and laptop at the same time?
A: OEM can only be used on one PC. In your scenario, two licenses would be needed for OEM products

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: for us small sys-buiders OPK comes with bundled 3 packs or 30 packs .. How does one obtain the OPK without having to puchase a 3-pack?
A: Another way to get it is by getting the action pack

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: for us small sys-buiders OPK comes with bundled 3 packs or 30 packs .. How does one obtain the OPK without having to puchase a 3-pack?
A: D&H sells single OEM software but you have to puchase with a non-peripheral piece of hardware. We are looking at a solution to offering single-packs more broadly, but don't have it locked yet.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
DOes anyone have some ice?

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: where are the answers?
A: You can find transcript of questions and answers on the TechNet transcription page.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Dave, was that a question for the experts?

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: I build customized systems, therefore, no two computers are ever the same. Instead of making system builders use the opk tools, why can't we just run a dos based program that will "SEAL" the software and give the user an "out of the box" experience?
A: On the OPK Tools that you receive with the 3 packs, there is a tool called Sysrep. This is the tool you use to reseal a computer so that it boots up to the Windows Welcome Screen. Check out this article! http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentpage.aspx?pageid=554041

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: Can 1 copy MS Office be install on a personnel computer and laptop at the same time?
A: Yes, as long as you are the primary user. For example, if your son uses the desktop and, at the same time you use the laptop, then you should purchase two licenses.

randbru (Expert):
Q: I had to replace only the motherboard of DELL with a generic one. All the equipment is the same but the MB. The system wont boot.. Halts on error.. any advice?
A: The OS is locked by the BIOS. The end user (or on their behalf) will need to call the activation line for a manual activation. If it is a technical issue such as MB ill not work, contact the HW vendor.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Thanks Claire
A: :D

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: I had to replace only the motherboard of DELL with a generic one. All the equipment is the same but the MB. The system wont boot.. Halts on error.. any advice?
A: Yes, The reason is because the HAL doesn't match. You have to reload from the Original Windows CD and an image CD.

randbru (Expert):
Q: any luck on slipstream building out there? 8-)
A: For OPK support on slipping in SP2 or updates, either go to the www.microsoft.com/oem site or email SBST@microsoft.com

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: If you make that tool available to registered partners and they have to login to be able to use it, that will limit the phishing problem
A: Yep, however, unfortunately some of our registered partners are big pirates as well...:(

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Can you explain more about downgrade rights and what XP OS's have this or give me a page for reference?
A: Here is a great site that explains downgrade rights http://oem.microsoft.com/script/ContentPage.aspx?pageid=552836

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: Thanks for all the great info!!
A: Thanks so much! Hope it was useful.

LGP (Expert):
8-| cheers y'all & let's stop the pirates

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: Trying but need Help for from bigger assests to stop all the piracy I see in a week
A: We're working hard to help!

randbru (Expert):
Q: Trying but need Help for from bigger assests to stop all the piracy I see in a week
A: Please forward the leads to piracy@microsoft.com, or call the 800 RU LEGIT number. We are doing great thigs to help with piracy...stay tuned and watch the announcements

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Is there an e-mail address we can forward spam e-mails to, that are trying to sell "dirt-cheap" software?
A: piracy@microsoft.com

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: can someone tell me why I get the error 0x800706d9 when I try to access my Windows Firewall????
A: This may help you. http://support.microsoft.com/?id=839880

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: When I service a major manufacturers computer, i.e. Dell, HP, Gateway, why is it that the COA on the chasis does not match the COA in the Windows OS
A: Yep, the major manufacturers use one key for a whole run of computers and then they put the individual ones on the side of the box if it ever needs to be reinstalled.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Bah, ignore that. Just saw the answer.
A: Consider it ignored

randbru (Expert):
Q: PC's with just the COA (no CD, or manual) activated a year ago... will they continue to work... ?
A: If they are "stolen", counterfeit or pulled, there is a good likely hood they may not work in the future.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Can I sugguest that MS use an email forwarding address to forward all of the pirates emails ..thus giving MS an actual count of who is really doing the mass pirating/distrobution?
A: send to piracy@microsoft.com and cc: mswish@microsoft.com

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: Thanks Steve :P
A: :D

Tracy-MSFT (Expert):
Q: sorry, 2 things- is office online activation affected, and is this are all the dell machines I've sold in the past not going to be able to activate online when customers go down, even like from a year ago or more?
A: Office activation will not be affected right now. DELL machines you sold will be affected if they came preinstalled with Windows XP DELL software. If your client reinstalls their software, they'll simply need to call the activation center. Very easy process.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Thank you to everybody for joining us today on a Microsoft Community Chat to talk about “Protecting Your Business: New Anti-Piracy Efforts & Licensing for System Builders.”
If you would like further information on this topic please visit the following URL(s): http://oem.microsoft.com/licensing_ap_main

rogergoh [msft] (Expert):
Cheers! nice chatting! See you next time.

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
thanks everyone for joining us today! Cya next time.

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Thanks for tning in!!! Hope this helped...see ya!!!

Bret [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Well that's my time, all. Come hang out with us again, it was fun. Until then... Elvis has left the building

Victor aka BOB (Expert):
Q: Since all computers are not equal, is it ok just to change the winnt.sif file to preload a legal XP OS?
A: Yes so long as you provide the support information and reseal the computer for your customer. Please check out http://oem.microsoft.com/script/contentpage.aspx?pageid=554041

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: so if there is a unactivated dell COA on these machines, the customer will still have to call in instead of just punching in the code?
A: yes

Kristiba msft (Expert):
Goodbye!

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: PC's with just the COA (no CD, or manual) activated a year ago... will they continue to work... ?
A: Yes...until reinstall

randbru (Expert):
Q: PC's with just the COA (no CD, or manual) activated a year ago... will they continue to work... ?
A: They will not have access to updates and downloads

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: hmmm now OK I remember the question in the meeting that was not re-asked here. What do I do if one of my NFS cds produced an authentication error (not that it has yet but some of my disks have wanderd from their Jewel cases and I dont have the key so they
A: send to BOBTalk@microsoft.com

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: So if a customer buys a mouse and a oem copy of windows xp does the system builder need to install it or can the customer as they have bought the qualified hardware?
A: send to BOBTalk@microsoft.com

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: I mostly buy my Windows XP OEM from an internet company called "New Egg" I am sure you have heard of them. They are not on your list of authorized distributors. Are they buying it from an authorized dealer and the reselling it?
A: send BOBTalk@microsoft.com

Steve [aka BOB] (Moderator):
Q: oh, and yes I do have to buy it with a piece of hardware.
A: BOBTalk@microsoft.com

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