The high degree of piracy associated with volume license keys has necessitated a more prudent approach to product activation from vendors. Volume Activation 2.0 is Microsoft's answer. While likely to be a bane for software pirates, Activation 2.0 also presents IT decision makers with a variety of options and requirements that are confusing and add complexity to IT procedures. Failure to comply with Activation 2.0 will also have dire consequences in the form of Reduced Functionality Mode.
Volume Activation 2.0
Volume Activation 2.0 currently pertains to Windows Vista and the Windows Longhorn Server. However, Microsoft has stated that it is likely to apply these terms to more products going forward. The new scheme presents enterprises with three options for product activation:
- OEM Activation
- Multiple Activation Key
- Key Management Service
The terms and conditions of these are described briefly in the following table...
