In general, Microsoft software is obtained through three main channels: retail, original equipment manufacturer (OEM), and volume licensing agreements. The IP address is used only to verify the location of the request, because some editions of Windows (such as 'Starter' editions) can only be activated within certain geographical target markets. Microsoft doesn't use this information to identify or contact the user or the organization. The gathered data confirms that the software is a legally licensed copy, and this data is used for statistical analysis. The activation methods that Microsoft uses are designed to help protect user privacy, and they can't be used to track back to the computer or user. This information may include the software version, the product key, the IP address of the computer, and information about the device. For online activations, this information is sent to a server at Microsoft. Activation also establishes a link or relationship between the product key and the particular installation.ĭuring the activation process, information about the specific installation is examined. Activation confirms that the product is genuine-not a fraudulent copy-and that the product key or serial number is valid and hasn't been compromised or revoked.
Product activation is the process of validating software with the manufacturer after it has been installed on a specific computer. Are you looking for information on retail activation?
