Piracy has become commonplace in the virtual arena, particularly for Microsoft. It only took two days for the company to have to strengthen the activation policy of it latest OS, Windows 8 because as soon as the finalized version of the program went public, its code leaked onto the internet. The copy that leaked, which is an “N” version of Window 8 (which means it does not include Windows Media Player) , was instantly available across a spectrum of file sharing sites – and although Microsoft hesitated to comment on what happened, it is probably that someone working at an OEM partner is the culprit.
This is not an isolated incident for Microsoft – however, that does not mean that the company is yet equipped to deal with – and cease – such a thing from happening again. One measure Microsoft is taking is to home in on some of the loop holes that may have fostered easy access for pirates and rogue OEMs. In particular, Microsoft plans on altering the way they handle OEM activations for Windows 8, which can read more about here.
What is OEM activation (OA)? Essentially, OA permits computer manufacturers to ship our systems with preinstalled Windows programs that are pre-activated, relieving clients of the need to take any extraneous steps to set up their systems. Microsoft plans on changing this procedure. Whereas in the past, manufacturers needed only a single activation key in order to activate their to-be-shipped machines, Microsoft will now manufacturers to write a special product key into the BIOS of each new machine, customized according to that particular system’s hardware. As another level of protection, the now-required key will not be automatically generated by OEMS. Rather, manufacturers will need to request one directly from Microsoft – which will be delivered electronically – and then file a report with Microsoft to document their compliance with all licensing terms for the new system.
While the new protocol is still in-the-works and not officially verified by Microsoft, there are deeper details about the new system all over the web, including here, where you can read more deeply into how the new process should proceed.
Once the hullabaloo is a thing of the past, you’re gonna want to get your hands on a new Windows 8 machine – so start preparing now by researching for the very best extended warranty for your system at CPS.