Bill D -

I haven't seen an official update on their policy, but as of a few months ago they indicated they will provide Critical Updates (Security fixes) even if your copy isn't an original. You have to validate your copy to get the optional stuff.

The pages linked above seem to imply that the same policy remains in effect.

They imply that the "checker" will come with updates from now on, and will be updated each time you get a new patch download. You can turn off the popup notice that your copy is a counterfeit, but it will be turned back on when you get the next update.

If you don't validate a new installation within 30 days of first boot, I believe it will continue to run but you don't get full performance or "all the good features." I intended to look for a description of what happens if they figure out you're counterfeit; but I ran out of time and energy.

Separate subject:

In a previous thread, there was discussion of the license for the Windows (esp. WinXP) that comes on a new machine (OEM version) being not transferable to another machine. Microsoft considers a new motherboard "building a new machine" that requires a new license.

After a ridiculous amount of searching, I finally found what I think are copies of the EULA for the FPP (Full Package Product) that you buy at retail; and for that method of acquiring WinXP you can transfer the FPP version of WinXP to a different machine, as long as it's on only one at a time. The shrink-wrap version usually will cost you about 50% more than what the OEMs will knock of if you buy a mchine without an OS, but for people who might want to do major surgery it might be worthwhile getting the transferable version from the start.

A possible other consideration in the OEM vs FPP choice is that Microsoft provides no direct support for the OEM version. You have to go to the machine builder. Microsoft will provide direct support for the FPP version. (For a price, after a short warranty period.) If your builder is likely not to be around to support you, you might want to buy your own retail FPP WinXP up front at the beginning.

John