Installing Windows XP on other computers

I really hate Microsoft for the reason that you can purchase an OS and not really own it. What I mean is that you cannot install the same software on multiple computers on your home network without purchasing additional licenses. I understand that there must be some control so one person doesn't use the same CD and give it to all his buddies, how would Microsoft turn a profit?

That's not the point here though. Two computers, one router, one IP, should translate to all the installs I need. Anyone know of a solution to bypassing the account activation for Win XP SP 1 Home?

I hope this doesn't come across as a warez or pirating post because I don't feel it is. If I have to purchase an additional license then I guess I'll have to bend over. If you do have a work around then I'd appreciate knowing it.

Thanks,

Ken

[stealthhosts]

Originally Posted by Duke

I really hate Microsoft for the reason that you can purchase an OS and not really own it. What I mean is that you cannot install the same software on multiple computers on your home network without purchasing additional licenses. I understand that there must be some control so one person doesn't use the same CD and give it to all his buddies, how would Microsoft turn a profit?

That's not the point here though. Two computers, one router, one IP, should translate to all the installs I need. Anyone know of a solution to bypassing the account activation for Win XP SP 1 Home?

I hope this doesn't come across as a warez or pirating post because I don't feel it is. If I have to purchase an additional license then I guess I'll have to bend over. If you do have a work around then I'd appreciate knowing it.

Thanks,

Ken

Legally you must purchase another license, it isn't a debate mate, it's the way it is.
You never own software, you own a license enabling you to use it. With the exception of certain types of licencing (such as GPL) where you can change the code enough to make it your own and thereby own it.

Yes you can get around product activation and it is easy to find out how by searching. You should be aware that by doing so you are breaching your original license thereby making both copies illegal. If you ever do get found out (v.unlikely) then you will be expected to buy a further two copies due to your breach (plus fines up to £100,000).

Officially, if the two machines are never in use (turned on) at the same time then it is totally legal to have multiple installs on one license, the reason being that the license enables one install to be used at any one time.

Hope that helps

Ya I see your point, I just think it sux is all because additional licenses aren't exactly cheap.

[temi]

Originally Posted by Duke

I really hate Microsoft for the reason that you can purchase an OS and not really own it. What I mean is that you cannot install the same software on multiple computers on your home network without purchasing additional licenses. I understand that there must be some control so one person doesn't use the same CD and give it to all his buddies, how would Microsoft turn a profit?

That's not the point here though. Two computers, one router, one IP, should translate to all the installs I need. Anyone know of a solution to bypassing the account activation for Win XP SP 1 Home?

I hope this doesn't come across as a warez or pirating post because I don't feel it is. If I have to purchase an additional license then I guess I'll have to bend over. If you do have a work around then I'd appreciate knowing it.

Thanks,

Ken

Ken,
Oranges are not the only fruit, there are other OS such as Linux and other, not licensing palaver involved.

Ya but I was hoping to have a home network setup the quick and lazy way. If I have to pay an extra 100 bux to do it I guess I have to cough it up.

[temi]

Umm,
You will be amazed how user friendly Linux is this days but if you are bent on Windows you will have to buy a second license

I don't know anything about Linux, if you say it's that easy then maybe I'll give it a try.

Are you telling me that I can use a complete version of Linux for free?

[temi]

Originally Posted by Duke

Are you telling me that I can use a complete version of Linux for free?

Absolutely, that is why Linux is about, its free. Some vendors charge you just for the postage and burning it on a CD for you but you can actually download if free of charge from most vendor website.

I use RedHat but most people tell me that RedHat is the least user friendly of Linux distributions, speak to Ovi, he a is a great Linux buff and he will probably send you CDs of a more userfriendly Linux you can install legally and free of charge

Thanks for the tips temi, I can't wait for ovi to actually read this topic.