- Activating and registering Windows are two separate actions that people sometimes confuse, according to Microsoft's Windows FAQ. Activation of Windows is a mandatory process to validate a legitimate purchase of the software. Users are not required to register Windows, which merely gives Microsoft information about the user and computer usage habits.
- The types of problems activating Windows usually involve the user not properly reading the product key number that comes with their copy or not following the procedures Microsoft sets for activating their products, reports the Windows activation FAQ. More specific problems exist, but they are mostly related to specific versions of Windows.
- Microsoft only allows one installation per copy of Windows. Installing a copy of Windows on multiple computers violates the terms of use, and only the computer with the latest install will have full use of Windows, reports Windows FAQ. Current versions of Windows require that the user activate the product within 30 days of installation; after 30 days, the user loses several important features of the unactivated version of Windows.
- Problems with activating Windows can occur after an illegal and/or improper installation, according to Microsoft. Window's Genuine Advantage, a piece of security software developed by Microsoft, checks to ensure the legitimacy of each activation. Failure to activate Windows properly or using an illegal copy results in annoyances such as constant requests for an activation correction, background changes and warnings that you are using an illegal copy.
- You can prevent most Windows activation problems by immediately entering in the product key after purchasing your copy, or a new computer. Product keys are either printed on the computer hardware or on the CD case that comes with hard copies of Windows, reports Microsoft. Sometimes the user may have to reactivate Windows after updating hardware.
Misconceptions
Types
Common Problems
Considerations
Prevention/Solution
SHARE
