How to get Vista for free or cheap?

[elkinm]

I got Win XP Pro for $50 with the sparcle lamp through the partnet program when it came out.

Well I can't do that now, but I was wondering if there is any other MS programs that would allow me to get Vista and maybe some other things for cheap.

Thanks

 

[geekender]

YHPM.

 

[magomago]

You will probably have to wait until it comes out late next year first 😉

Also, in the long run of things while Windows is expensive...its not something that will kill the wallet. WinXP will have six years as Microsoft's main operating system. Even if you paid 300 for for WinXP, that is only 50 dollars per year. Assuming you are employed and making atleast minimum wage, it shouldn't be something that will kill you financially (yeah its 300 you to pay at that initial instance, but its a one time fee) In the long scheme of things its not that exepensive.

If you really don't want to pay, then I suggest you take a look at Linux

 

[elkinm]

Isn't there some subscriber program with wich for something like $300 (or $100 with hot deals) a year I can get multiple licenses of any MS software even the server?

 

[spyordie007]

It wouldnt surprise me if there were opportunities to get Vista for much less at trade-shows, events, promotions, etc.

However you're putting the cart way before the carriage here; It's probably going to be at least a year and a half before they begin pushing anything like this...

 

[spyordie007]

Originally posted by: elkinm
Isn't there some subscriber program with wich for something like $300 (or $100 with hot deals) a year I can get multiple licenses of any MS software even the server?

I think you're thinking of the Action Pack:
http://search.microsoft.com/search/resu...x?st=b&na=88&View=en-us&qu=action+pack

I dont know if it will be the same after Vista is released, but considering the Action Pack includes software assurance if you buy it now you should be able to upgrade to Vista without paying anything extra once it is released.

-Erik

UPDATE: Looks like new action pack subscriptions are currently $299 (retail); I believe renewals are $100 less. You can probably find coupons/promotions to find them for cheaper.

 

[elkinm]

Thanks, will see what deals pop up.

 

[BornStar]

Originally posted by: spyordie007

Originally posted by: elkinm
Isn't there some subscriber program with wich for something like $300 (or $100 with hot deals) a year I can get multiple licenses of any MS software even the server?

I think you're thinking of the Action Pack:
http://search.microsoft.com/search/resu...x?st=b&na=88&View=en-us&qu=action+pack

I dont know if it will be the same after Vista is released, but considering the Action Pack includes software assurance if you buy it now you should be able to upgrade to Vista without paying anything extra once it is released.

-Erik

UPDATE: Looks like new action pack subscriptions are currently $299 (retail); I believe renewals are $100 less. You can probably find coupons/promotions to find them for cheaper.

They send you 3 quarterly updates when you sign up. You don't have to do anything to get them. I just got my first Action Pack so I don't know what the renewal is like.

 

[Brazen]

Originally posted by: geekender
YHPM.

You Have the Pen is Mighter? 😕