Windows License

[mkone]

This topic must have by now been thoroughly discussed before. If so, I missed it. But anyway here goes.

I once heard before that with previous Windows versions, If I purchased one copy for home use, I could use it on up to 4 computers. If this was so then it means Microsoft just increased the price of Windows at least fourfold by restricting users to just one computer.

Also, users were allowed to sell their copies of Windows if they decided they didn't need them anymore. If, for example, I bought a new Pc which came with Windows preinstalled, and already had a copy of Windows. Now, with WPA, this seems unlikely to be able to happen, since after the first activation, Windows is almost tied to the hardware.

This sort of brings me to the question, when someone buys Windows, do they buy it for themselves, i.e., it is now their property, or do they buy rights to use it, which cannot be passed on.

Is it legal for Microsoft to also make its software not resaleable buy such measures. Heck, I should be able to give away any software I do not need anymore. I mean, If I can do it with hardware, why can't I with software. It seems that we are rapidly develpoing laws that only apply in the computer world, which would not stand scrutiny in any other industry.

For example, Apple sells its rack mounted servers, Xserve, with an unlimited OS license. Why I can't install the same copy of Windows on my desktop, notepad and my other old machine still strikes me as funny.

[BWCorvus]

Windows xp can be installed on as many computers as you want, catch is that it can only be installed on one at a time, meaning to install on a second pc, you are required by law to format that other. WPA is tied into everything about your computer, so if you do install on a second computer, u just have to call them on the phone and get the new codes. They ask no questions, or atleast they didnt for me. And i have installed in about 10 times on my 2 systems. I test alot of stuff tho...haha. I have had to call m$ prolly 4 times to do over the phone.

Hope this helps,
BWCorvus

[chr1s]

I don't think that Microsoft allowed you to install Windows on up to four PC's in the past as far as I'm aware. Unless someone can prove otherwise I think that's just a mith.

Chris.