A sneaky change in Windows licensing terms
,----[ Quote ]
| With a retail version of Windows XP, there are no restrictions on the
| number of times you can transfer the software from one computer to another
| in your household or office. That's about to change for the worse in
| Vista, with only one lifetime transfer allowed. It makes the outrageous
| price difference between retail and OEM copies even more difficult
| to justify.
`----
http://blogs.zdnet.com/Bott/?p=156
Further analysis here:
Important Windows Vista Licensing Changes
http://www.windows-now.com/blogs/robert/archive/2006/10/11/Important-Windows-Vista-Licensing-Changes.aspx
http://tinyurl.com/nemr9
Also see the XP EULA in 'plain English':
,----[ Snippets ]
| You may install and use Windows XP Home on one computer.
|
| [...]
|
| If you share files or printers with other computers in your house, you
| are not allowed to share with more than 5 other computers.
|
| [...]
|
| You agree that at any time, and at the request of "content providers"
| (eg. media giants such as Sony and BMG), Microsoft may disable certain
| features on your computer, such as the ability to play your music or
| movie files.
|
| [...]
|
| You agree that Microsoft can automatically and without your consent put
| new software on your computer.
|
| [...]
|
| Microsoft may collect information about your computer and may share it
| with other companies, but this may not include personal information
| about you.
|
| [...]
|
| You may not rent, lease, or lend your computer with Windows XP Home on
| it.
|
| [...]
|
| Microsoft is not responsible for any damages. This includes loss of
| profit, the release of confidential information, or the loss of your
| privacy.
|
| Microsoft is further not liable for failing to use "good faith,"
| "reasonable care" or for negligence.
|
| Microsoft is not liable even if they break the terms of this agreement.
`----
http://linuxadvocate.org/articles.php?p=1
Know what you are getting into and what you commit yourself to.
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