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Transcript: Chat with the Chief of Windows XP

Published: October 23, 2001
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Please note: Portions of this transcript have been edited for clarity

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

Welcome to today's chat. Our topic is Windows XP and today's host is Jim Allchin, Group Vice President for Windows. Questions, comments and suggestions are welcome.

Host JimAll says:

Hi good morning

I was asked about what I do at MS. I run the platforms group...this includes OS, servers, tools, etc.

QUESTION:Guest_holmes says:

Will you advertise for people to use Windows Update for getting updates ( similar to MSN standalone machines ) ?

Host JimAll says:

WU has 3 basic capabilities: dynamic setup, AU, and user controlled. We will move more to AU (automatic) over time. Once we move past 10/25, expect to have lots up on WU.

QUESTION:DocD:

If we are happy with Win2K Pro why should we upgrade to XP?

Host JimAll says:

Remote Desktop, Remote Assistance, checkpoint for drivers, much greater security, etc.

QUESTION:Guest_DicksieUK says:

How do you think the general public (and current Windows users) will react to the new Luna interface?

Host JimAll says:

From what I have seen, people love it! We know it is much easier to use from tests. I'm super proud of it. You all should try a clean desktop... That way you can cover your desktop with windows (or a single one maximized) without having to minimize to get to your data.

QUESTION:Terri asks:

Jim, there seems to be some confusion as to the number of activations that the retail allows. Please state what MS' policies are regarding reactivations.

Host JimAll says:

The End User License Agreement allows for an installation on one PC.

QUESTION:mbrunes@microsoft.com says:

Certified partners have additional license rights that are similar to volume license customers. Because of this, Microsoft will be sending certified partners the volume license version of Windows XP Professional in their product media kits.

Host JimAll says:

It's one activation on one PC.

QUESTION:Guest_hammer says:

Why do I need a MS Passport with XP? We will not be upgrading to XP because of this.

Host JimAll says:

First, you don't have to use passport if you don't want to. Just don't fill in the request for the passport. Without a passport you can't use WM on the Internet until there are SiP providers on the Internet. Note that WM CAN be used within a company using Exchange as the presence system OR using our new SIP server which is in beta testing. WM is super cool so you should consider it. Note that with passport all it takes is your email name (necessary to verify [loosely] that you are who you say you are. It takes the state and a secret question in case you lose your password. Passport is a great thing. There will be many authentication services in the world though.

Host JimAll says:

More on activation... If you buy a new machine from a large computer manufacturer, you'll be able to reinstall on that machine forever. There is a lot of information on our Web site. I'll get the URL for you. The activation pointer is at: www.microsoft.com/piracy/basics/xp_activation.mspx

QUESTION:Guest_Macro says:

Are the main differences between XP Pro and Home version just in Network administration and control or what?

Host JimAll says:

There is information on the Web site. I'll get the URL. Net net: if you're in a business, you'll want PRO. There are minor things like no MP support in HE, but the core is additional domain support, centralized management, etc. Check out: http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/home/howtobuy/choosing.mspx

QUESTION:chrisearl:

What activation methods are available for those who purchase a new machine (non-XP) to activate XP on the newly purchased machine? (After removing it from the older machine of course.)

Host JimAll says:

New machines that are manufactured by major OEMs will be pre-activated at the factory. Machines that you load retail Windows XP on will support both online activation as well as telephone activation. This is all explained online in the URL that I sent earlier.

QUESTION:Guest_damnames says:

Good morning, I heard if I buy a copy of Win XP, that I can't download it on my wife's computer, but there is an option to pay an additional 410.00 licensing fee and then be able to download. Is this the true fact?

Host JimAll says:

This is not true. You can purchase additional licenses from our retail partners for $10 off Home upgrade/full. $10 off Windows Pro Upgrade, and $30 off Windows XP Pro Full. If you wish to purchase more than 4 four licenses, you can purchase an Open Agreement form our retail partners.

QUESTION:Jaymz:

Will users have access to the service packs for Windows XP Home Edition, or is that for Pro only? (Fresh install of Windows ME = Day and a half of rebooting due to 'updates')

Host JimAll says:

Service packs are for everyone.

QUESTION:

Jim, does the home version support Remote Desktop?

Host JimAll says:

No. It does support Remote Assistance.

QUESTION:

Can you install XP full version OVER win/me?

Host JimAll says:

Yes

QUESTION:

Jim when is the next release of Windows. I mean as soon as we start to use a stable OS (drivers, service packs etc) then MS releases a new version and generally this doesn't take too much time

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

For those new to the chat - this is a chat with Jim Allchin, Microsoft Group Vice President for Windows, about Windows XP and what's ahead for Windows. Questions, comments and suggestions are welcome.

Host JimAll says:

We are currently listening to what you are telling us you want beyond Windows XP. Now is the time to tell us what you want!

QUESTION:

Jim, If I buy 3 Home upgrades to load on my PC's, can I just use the CD from one of the computers to load all of my PCs, or do I need to use each separate CD to be "legal"?

Host JimAll says:

The CDs are all the same. Use any CD. It is the activation that is different.

QUESTION:

Jim, off topic, will Madonna perform during the launch on the 25th in NY?

Host JimAll says:

No... keep guessing...

QUESTION:luvbug:

If I buy XP Pro and I have to reinstall it several times do I need to reactivate it each time?

Host JimAll says:

If you do a clean install, yes. If you upgrade or repair you do not.

QUESTION: faithless:

Volume version of Windows XP is already in warez and it occupied all world underground markets. In this case why do you insist on WPA if it is that much easy to use pirated WXP?

Host JimAll says:

Good question, and a common misconception. There are many different types of piracy, each one is unique, and each one requires a specific strategy to curtail. The purpose of activation is to reduce casual copying, not counterfeiting. We have other strategies and tactics to address counterfeiting and other types of piracy.

QUESTION:ILoveXP :

I do development at home. I am setting up extensive wireless network at home for personal/business use. Would Pro be the best, or could I accomplish with Home?

Host JimAll says:

Windows XP is great for wireless home networking! We have built in the ability to automatically see all available wireless connections and allow the user to choose which one they would like connect. Windows XP Home allows up to five concurrent connections and Windows XP Professional allows up to ten concurrent connections.

QUESTION:Tony :

How much input did you have in the overall look, feel, and features of Windows XP

Host JimAll says:

The team deserves all the credit for Windows XP.

QUESTION:ClubStew :

Are ACL's still supported on the Home Edition since it does have NTFS?

Host JimAll says:

Customers who want ACLs should use Pro. There is security protection in HE, but not visible ACLs.

Host Guide_PamS says:

The transcript of this chat will be available on http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/default.mspx

QUESTION: Hey Jim why are you all making the operating systems of today so big brothery?

Host JimAll says:

I'm a HUGE promoter for privacy. We ARE trying to protect your privacy. Activation has NO personal information. Passport uses about as little information as possible in order to do presence, etc. And even there as I said you don't have to use passport if you don't want to.

QUESTION:Guest_XPuser says:

I've seen all over the press that Larry Ellison and Scott McNealy have proposed a national ID card (e.g. smartcard+fingerprint). Do you foresee Passport (optionally) being used to help national security in this way?

Host JimAll says:

I expect each government will want their own systems. I expect there will be several systems in the US. If the US government wants to create a national ID system, then yes. Passport (the new kerberosed version) should be considered. Obviously, it would be run by the government though and not Microsoft.

Host Guide_PamS says:

XP Newsgroups -- lots of activity and smart folks in microsoft.public.windowxsp.general (..windowsxp.network_web for those specific issues)

QUESTION: nigelengr:

Will there be any update that allows Home to connect to a domain? For example, some college students have no need for Pro except that their ethernet connections at school use domain logon.

Host JimAll says:

These customers should upgrade to Windows XP Pro to access a domain.

QUESTION:Guest_Rick says:

How has the feedback from OEM's been...and when do you anticipate the first Service Pack for XP?

Host JimAll says:

FANTASTIC! Come on... we haven't even launched it yet!... We will continue to improve the product over time via WU and SPs. Keep checking WU. This is our key vehicle for improvements.

Host Guide_PamS says:

We're about halfway through the chat now and would like to thank all of you for joining us today. It's great to see so many questions, keep them coming. Jim will answer as many as he can.

QUESTION: OnymPro :

Will the majority of software companies come up with new drivers to resolve compatibility issues by Oct. 25th? I can't use my dsl and many other applications with XP, it worked well with win2000.

Host JimAll says:

There will be 1000s of drivers available at launch and they all will be accessible through Windows Update as will any created after launch

Host Guide_PamS says:

For those new to the chat - this is a chat with Jim Allchin, Microsoft Group Vice President for Windows, about Windows XP and what's ahead for Windows. Questions, comments and suggestions are welcome.

QUESTION:Jim:

I have a question that I know thousands of people want to know the answer to, are the XP development team going to make an update that (goes through Windows Update) that will detect if someone is using a hacked version, or an often "used product key"?

Host JimAll says:

I hope people use legal licensed software.

QUESTION:Guest_ILoveXP says:

Jim, I like the product. But I use a VPN from home (checkpoint software), would XP Home still work to connect to the 2000 domain at work, or would XP Pro be required.

Host JimAll says:

Yes... but it will be slightly painful in that every time you need to connect to a resource within the domain you will be asked for credentials, etc.

QUESTION:Doug :

How does Windows XP fit into the new .Net strategy?

Host JimAll says:

Windows XP is one of the most significant smart clients for .NET. It provides a terrific environment for users and businesses to run compelling, highly valuable applications. Since Windows XP has built-in support for the SOAP and XML standards as well as for .NET services like Passport, it's very easy for developers to create interesting .NET solutions for deployment on Windows XP, and for end users to take advantage of those solutions.

QUESTION:Widetire asks:

How is Microsoft with XP addressing the security issues that seem to hound Windows NT and 2000.

Host JimAll says:

1. We used new source automation tools that removes any potential buffer overflow attacks. 2. We added a personal firewall. 3. Targeted penetration testing 4. Source code reviewed by others.

QUESTION:JohnB :

Jim what about all the honest people who own Windows XP. Myself I am a tester for your XP and .NET line of products. And I reinstall a lot, and upgrade a lot, would I be red flagged for possible piracy or would the clearing house know the difference?

Host JimAll says:

If you are re-installing and upgrading a lot I would recommend not activating. You can use the grace period to do your testing and hardware modifying. If you are just re-installing on the same PC, you could activate an unlimited number of times.

QUESTION:Guest_Pollux says:

Open source Windows is the future?

Host JimAll says:

Our views about the pros and cons of open source are on our Web site. We REALLY believe in community though. Let me say right now. THANK YOU for spending the time with me this morning.

QUESTION:Guest_ColdFuzion says:

What about giving out the source for WIn9x series when MS starts getting into 64-bit OSes like longhorn and blackcomb?

Host JimAll says:

Interesting idea. Not planned right now...

QUESTION:Guest_nilbast says:

Does XP support the true Intel P4 processor? (dual processor)

Host JimAll says:

There is a new technology in the P4 that does something called hyper threading. Yes. Windows XP supports this. It is not available from Intel on all P4's yet. Windows XP has the support in it!

Host Guide_PamS says:

Hang on folks, Jim just got dropped from the server - attempting to get him back in

QUESTION:Guest_brotherjay says:

What about netware support to XP machines? What about Linux support to XP machines? Can they play nice together?

Host JimAll says:

Actually everyone can play nice together.

QUESTION:dkoch :

Is it possible to clone a workstation on which XP is installed?

Host JimAll says:

Yes, certainly it is possible. There is some documentation to be published shortly on this.

Guest_Tony says:

Does the machine your on now have XP on it?

Host JimAll says:

DOS. And no my machine didn't crash! The connector to the net is having problems on the machine I was using.

QUESTION: Pollux :

So is it true that passport ident's will cost in the future?

Host JimAll says:

Microsoft has no plans to charge end users for Passport identities.

QUESTION:Guest_faithless says:

Jim are you using dial-up connection (y)

Host JimAll says:

No...

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

We are going to have to wrap up this chat in a few minutes. If you asked a question a long time ago and it wasn't answered, please re-post now. We will get to as many as we possibly can.

Host JimAll says:

Let me ask YOU a question: So... what is the feature you guys like the most in Windows XP?

QUESTION:Guest_oldawg says:

I have a Dell 8100 running me. Can I do a clean install and use the dell oem disk to verify with the XP software that I am eligible for the upgrade?

Host JimAll says:

YES

QUESTION:Guest_tranquil says:

Is SQL 2000 Server able to run on XP?

Host JimAll says:

Windows XP is a client OS. SQL 2000 is a server. It is designed for the server family

QUESTION:Guest_DicksieUK says:

How many times has XP "Blue Screened" on you Jim (Seriously!) :-)

Host JimAll says:

From RTM final --- none. During development ... a lot. USE SIGNED DRIVERS! Tell vendors to get their drivers signed. We KNOW the quality is higher once they use the driver verifier.

QUESTION:Spiro :

Jim, what advice would you give to project managers? I'm currently managing a team for a software application, but we've delayed our RTM for a long time now. What advice do you have?

Host JimAll says:

First NEVER decide that shipment is more important than quality. No matter how much pressure you're management gives you. Second, focus on the basics. Once the basics are in place you can improve the application over time.

QUESTION:Leo :

How does it feel to finally wrap up the works of one of MS's most stable OS's?

Host JimAll says:

AWESOME

QUESTION:Guest_Doug says:

What is your response to Steve Gibson's "Raw Sockets" security hole in Windows XP?

Host JimAll says:

I think it is overblown. Anyone who wanted to send corrupted packets could do it before. Security was critical before and it is critical now.

QUESTION:Guest_faithless says:

Does Bill (Gates) have too much influence on you while creating XP. He has been chief architect then you started XP code.

Host JimAll says:

Bill is involved in the broad strategies of the company. Individual teams drive features, customer interactions, etc.

Host JimAll says:

We have only a few minutes left. I wanted to take the time to thank everyone for their time and for your insightful questions. I really enjoy talking with our customers - your thoughts, ideas, and criticisms are invaluable to us here at Microsoft. Get out there and try WindowsXP - you will love it!

QUESTION:Guest_Leo says:

How did the events of September 11th hurt the advertising of XP

Host JimAll says:

We reviewed all the information we were going to use in order to be sensitive to the sadness around our country now.

QUESTION:Guest_Tony26 says:

OH, I have not got answer from you, please, What different between the MSN Messenger and Windows Messenger in XP?

Host JimAll says:

We are creating a platform for RTC -- that is WM. Think about MSN Messenger as an add-on to Windows XP that will work on top of WM.

I need to go.. Thank you.

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

Thanks for joining us today! You've asked some great questions. Unfortunately, it's time to go.

You can find the transcript of this chat soon at the Expert Zone at

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/default.mspx

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

For more information on Windows XP visit http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/default.mspx.

The Windows XP Launch will be Webcast from http://www.microsoft.com on October 25th at 9:00 Pacific Daylight Savings Time.

Host Guide_MS_Michelle says:

Please join us for our next Windows XP chat with Windows Corporate VP Chris Jones, on November 6th from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM Pacific Standard Time. Chris will be eager to hear how you are doing with Windows XP since the launch.