The scheme asks visitors to the Download Center, Microsoft
Update or Windows Update to check that the Windows XP or Windows
2000 operating system installed on their machines is a legitimate
and licensed copy.
A program is downloaded to visiting PCs (in the form of an
ActiveX control) to perform a scan.
If a counterfeit copy of Windows is detected, users are given
two choices:
- The user can complete a piracy report, provide proof of
purchase, and send in his counterfeit CDs – in return for which he
may receive a free copy of Windows XP; or
- The computer user can complete a piracy report and buy a copy
of Windows XP Home Edition for the discounted price of $99, or
Windows XP Professional Edition for $149.
If a legitimate copy is found, Microsoft stores a special
download key on the PC for future use.
Microsoft stresses that the validation process does not collect
any information that can be used by Microsoft to identify or
contact the user.
The company also confirmed that security updates will still be
provided to all computer users, regardless of whether or not they
have validated their Windows software. This is to prevent viruses
and other malware taking advantage of non-updated computers.
Microsoft says WGA is part of its ongoing battle against
software counterfeiting and will allow genuine users to have easy
access to updates, added-value software offerings and confidence
that their software is authentic.
"During the 10-month pilot of WGA, we have been very encouraged
by the large number of customers – more than 40 million in all –
who chose to participate in WGA because they were concerned about
piracy and wanted a way to determine whether their Windows software
was genuine," said Will Poole, senior vice president of the Windows
Client Business at Microsoft.
"It also became clear that customers want to take advantage of
special offers reserved for genuine users, with the peace of mind
that their software will deliver the features, options and
performance they need," he added.
