Microsoft Corp. is cracking down harder than ever on software piracy as it tries to boost profits, but some say the harsh repercussions facing people who use unlicensed versions of its new Windows Vista operating system could spur a backlash.

The world's largest software maker said Wednesday that people running an unlicensed copy of Vista that it believes is pirated will initially be denied access to some of the most anticipated features of the operating system. That includes Windows Aero, an improved graphics technology.

If a legitimate copy is not bought within 30 days, the system will curtail functionality much further by restricting users to just the Web browser for an hour at a time, said Thomas Lindeman, Microsoft senior product manager.

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Actually I could live with that. Sounds like a perfect kids computer.

XP often says we only have 3 days left to activate. Don't know how many times the computers had to call and get 500 numbers right.

And M$ call this MS Software Protection Platform (SPP) (a.k.a. XP WGA). When SPP detect your copy of Vista as pirated, your new OS will end up in Reduced Functionality Mode, consisting of the followings:

1) 1 hour of IE
2) Buy a key online
3) Phone in for activation
4) Enter your key

CLICK ME to read M$ Press Q&A interview with the Director of MS Genuine Software Initiative.

Psst...the good news is that M$ will not do anything to implode Vista right on your PC.

i_XpUser

Typo...

(a.k.a. XP WGA)

should read

(a.k.a. XP WPA)

The Reduced Functionality Mode takes effective on the 30th day of installation.

i_XpUser