"The next version of Windows is just around the corner, so the next time we discuss software licensing in my course, the EULA for Vista will be front and center. You can read the Microsoft Vista EULA yourself by going to the official Software License page from Microsoft page and searching for Vista. I know many of you have never bothered to read the EULA - who really wants to, after all? - but take a few minutes and get yourself a copy and read it. I'll wait. Back? It's bad, ain't it? Real bad. I mean, previous EULAs weren't anything great - but the Vista EULA is horrendous."
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Member since:2005-07-17
no, because Dell MOBOS come with BIOS keys for the version of windows they distribute. Also, they will usually send you exactly the same model so windows would be OK with that.
On the other hand, a company like Alienware may not be able to get you the exact same keyboard because they use high-end retail models. In that case you'd have issues with Microsoft trying to say your replacement was bogus. In that case, you'd have the recipt of warranty to send to MS and they would probably reactivate for you.
If you build your own though, you'll usually just take the board back to the store or RMA it to the online retailer. In that case, MS would probably give you run around thinking you're scamming them. You could have a local shop do the replacement for you because they have a "line" to microsoft to qualify it as a repair.
Remember, a while back MS clarified that the "hardware" piece windows would key to was the motherboard... even though you can get it with something else, that's their control point. Microsoft's position is that the motherboard "IS" the computer, so they want their "Microsoft Tax" for every one sold... that's how they calculate piracy! I figured with Vista they'd require the Mobo Trusted Computing key to be tied to the OS key by the OEM directly... espically as draconian things like HDMI require trusted hardware chains... talk about good for business.
Member since:
2005-07-22
So What if DELL Replace my MOBO under Warranty? Do I have to stump up to MS for a new Vista License?
It is a pretty solid bet the the Dell Warranty will cover the H/W and even the Labour costs but A new Vista License? Get real.
Please not that I use Dell here as an example. I am pretty sure the same would apply to many other PC Makers and I don't want to single out Dell.
If MS start charging for new Licenses in these cases then I will regard this as them shooting themselves in the foot with both barrels. I am not a lawyer but I can imaging a number of Law Suits heading MS way pretty quick.