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billwharton

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Windows 2003 license keys - URGENT

What's the risk of using an illegitimate license key when installing windows 2003 R2? Here's the deal:

I have a customer who applied for the license key yesterday but would not receive it for another 48 hours. However, the server has to be built today as the application which is going to be installed on top of the OS has to be ready by end of day.

Now, I know that Microsoft doesn't care what license key you use as long as you have a valid license to back it up.


1) I'm wondering if by using an illegitimate key, would I be banned from windows updates or any other things? Any other things I should be careful of?

2) Is it possible to change the license key after the customer receives his own?

Thank you
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Jay_Jay70
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well using an illegit key is illegal.....no ways around that small fact :)

you will be barred from activation, you will also be barred from downloading windows updates, there is a way to change the key but i havent used it, no doubt someone with the know how will comment i just wanted to point out its illegal n that you probably want to avoid it.....
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Netman66
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The proper way to do this would be to use a Trial Version of the software.  You can register for that and get a trial key immediately at http://www.microsoft.com/windowsserver2003/evaluation/trial/default.mspx

You will need to download the Trial Version of the software to use for your installation.  Then when you get the actual key you can upgrade the version and input the new key.

Jeff
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billwharton

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I don't understand why Microsoft only provides the 'enterprise' versions of their trial software and not standard
That way, I cannot upgrade to a 'standard' license since that's what the customer is purchasing


BTW, what's the difference between an OPEN and VOLUME license?
Nothing with respect to software.  Open allows you to continually buy small groups of CALs to add to your exisiting contract while maintaining a volume price.

Volume is just that, you must buy a minimum number of licenses to qualify for Volume licensing.

I'm not sure, but I would think you can downgrade Enterprise Trial to Standard.

Jeff
TechSoEasy