Product activation is the process of validating software with the manufacturer. Activation confirms the genuine status of a product and that the product key is not compromised, which helps ensure that Microsoft customers receive the software quality they expect. It is analogous to the activation of credit cards or new mobile phones. Activation establishes a relationship between the software’s product key and a particular installation of that software on a device. This association helps to prevent the product key from being used to activate the same copy of the software on multiple computers. Some changes to your device components or the software might require you to reactivate the software.
All activation methods that are used by Microsoft are designed to help protect user privacy. The data that is gathered is used to confirm that the software is a legally licensed copy. It is then aggregated for statistical analysis. Microsoft does not use or share this information to identify or contact the user or organization, except to prevent the unlicensed use of the software.
For example, during online activations, information such as the software version, language, the product key, the Internet Protocol (IP) address, and information about the hardware of the device are sent to Microsoft. The IP address is used to verify the location of the request to help prevent the use of stolen product keys, and because some editions of Windows such as Windows 7 Starter can be activated only within certain target market geographies.
Volume Licensing
Microsoft Volume Licensing offers customized programs that are tailored to the size and purchasing preference of the organization. These programs provide simple, flexible, and affordable solutions that enable organizations to easily manage their licenses. To become a Volume Licensing customer, the organization needs to set up a Volume License agreement with Microsoft.
There are two legal ways to acquire a full license for a new computer with a Windows client operating system. The first and most economical way is to have the license preinstalled through the original equipment manufacturer. The other option is to purchase a fully packaged retail product.
Microsoft Volume Licensing programs such as Open License, Select License, and Enterprise Agreements cover only upgrades to Windows client operating systems. A qualifying OS licensing is needed for each computer
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