New technology has been built into genuine Windows Vista that will detect non-genuine versions and alter the user experience on those non-genuine versions by disabling enhanced features and restricting downloads and updates. These changes make it more important than ever for system builders/OEMs to preinstall only genuine Windows Vista.

The Software Protection Platform detects non-genuine versions and disables enhanced features, such as Windows Aero and Windows ReadyBoost, on non-genuine versions and will ultimately put the PC into reduced functionality mode.

Q. My customer is requesting a PC without an operating system – what do I tell them?

A. The only way to acquire genuine Windows software on a new PC is via the OEM channel (preinstalled on a new PC) or via full packaged retail product. Getting Windows preinstalled via OEM is your customers most cost-effective option. If they are planning on using Windows on this PC, you should tell them: There are limited options for getting it later. It is more cost-effective to get it preinstalled. They are more likely to acquire a counterfeit version which puts their PCs at greater risk for spyware, malware, and viruses.

Q. What will the customer experience if they have non-genuine Windows Vista on their PC?

A. Non-genuine copies of Windows Vista lose access to key features, have limited access to updates and eventually stop working. First, they will have a constant reminder on their screen that says they are not running genuine Windows software. Second, they won’t have access to all available updates and downloads. Third, they won’t have access to the great new features available in Windows Vista, such as Windows Aero and Windows ReadyBoost. Eventually, Windows Vista will go into reduced functionality mode.

Q. What is reduced functionality mode?	A. In reduced functionality mode, users will experience no desktop, no start menu or task bar, and Windows Vista functionality will be limited to the default browser for 1 hour periods.

Q. How does Windows Vista activation differ from Windows XP?

A. Volume license activation has changed and volume license keys cannot be used to circumvent the activation process. The new Software Protection Platform built into Windows Vista, identifi es non-genuine versions or versions that have been tampered. During original installation, or as updates and enhancements are installed, Windows Vista can identify and block stolen, leaked, false or abused keys at any time. If a system is determined to be non-genuine, key features will be disabled and the operating system will go into a reduced functionality mode.

Q. How does Windows Vista activation work?	A. The product activation process has changed with Windows Vista. After initial installation, product activation with a genuine product key is required. If activation fails, there is a 30-day grace period. If activation does not occur, Windows Vista will go into a “non-genuine” state with reduced functionality.

Q. What is validation?	A. Validation is required for many valuable and popular downloads and updates. Validation is a quick, easy, and confidential online process that enables customers to verify whether their Windows Vista software is genuine. Once validated as genuine, customers can gain access to valuable downloads, updates, and more.

Q. What is Microsoft doing to help fight piracy?	A. In addition to broad-based education on piracy and new engineering of products and tools that make piracy harder, Microsoft is continuing to increase its enforcement activity against counterfeiters to help protect our honest channel.

Click here to visit our Vista family page and purchase Genuine Microsoft Vista products