Ever since I heard that all versions of Vista will be available on the same DVD provided by Microsoft and that any version can be installed without a Serial Key for 30 days, I have been wondering why they added this option, the 30 days trial specially. Is it possible that Microsoft would offer Buying and Downloading Vista Online option? Just like hundreds of Softwares out there. You download the Demo/Trial/Shareware version, use it, if you like go to their website, pay online for it and receive a Serial Key by e-mail. May be offer it online, a 30 days trial just like they are offering a free 60 days downloadable trial of Office 2007!. I cannot confirm this bit as I am on a dial-up, but as of today it does say “a 60 days downloadable trial”.

I decided to look in this matter more. Checked out Windows Vista’s EULA [End User License Agreement] and I found the following bit in it,

4. MANDATORY ACTIVATION.
Activation associates the use of the software with a specific device. During activation, the software will send information about the software and the device to Microsoft. This information includes the version, language and product key of the software, the Internet protocol address of the device, and information derived from the hardware configuration of the device. For more information, see http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?linkid=69497. By using the software, you consent to the transmission of this information. Before you activate, you have the right to use the version of the software installed during the installation process. Your right to use the software after the time specified in the installation process is limited unless it is activated. This is to prevent its unlicensed use. You will not be able to continue using the software after that time if you do not activate it. If the device is connected to the Internet, the software may automatically connect to Microsoft for activation. You can also activate the software manually by Internet or telephone. If you do so, Internet and telephone service charges may apply. Some changes to your computer components or the software may require you to reactivate the software. The software will remind you to activate it until you do.

Notice the bold part? It says, “You have the right to use the version of the software installed during the installation process. Your right to use the software after the time specified in the installation process is limited unless it is activated”. Now, what about a person who downloads Vista off a torrent, installs Vista Ultimate for 30 days, buys a legal license of it and enters that Serial Key provided to him instead of waiting for the legal disk to arrive and then installing or re-installing from that very disk . . . You can call me a dumb when it comes to this, I am sorry if I sound awkward with this. If someone can clarify then please!

I e-mailed Microsoft Support about it and received a reply from them too. To put my question in simple words, “Is it legal of a person to get Vista through Pirated/Illegal means but install it without any Serial Key, getting a 30 days trial instead of using the Serial Key/Crack/Work around provided by Illegal means to active Windows Vista?” I received the following answer which to me is not exactly reply to what I asked them, instead the guy told reason for why Microsoft offers such an option, selecting any version of Vista for a 30 days period. May be it’s the answer, I don’t know.

Thank you for contacting Microsoft Online Customer Service.

I understand from your message that you wish know why a customer is provided the right to use Vista software during installation period. I realize the importance of your concern.

Please be informed that, this facility is given to the customer, in order to provide a hands on feel and make them familiar with the new helpful features before they decide to purchase the full version.

The goal of Product Activation is to reduce a form of piracy known as “casual copying” or “softlifting.” Casual copying is a form of piracy characterized by the sharing of software between people in a way that infringes on the software`s end user license agreement (EULA).

Abul, if you come across any information on the sales of Microsoft Products which you believe is a pirated one, I recommend you to contact the piracy Hotline, which you can reach at 1-800-785-3448 or write to:
piracy@microsoft.com

If you would like to get more information about piracy, we do have a piracy support website that provides information about this serious issue. You can visit this web site at:
http://www.microsoft.com/piracy/ReportingUs.mspx

I hope the above information is helpful.

Thank you for using Microsoft products and services.

Any one wants to clarify? I have contacted a few who have a lot knowledge of EULA’s than me. Looking forward to their answer.