Windows licensing question

[DaFinn]

Hi,

planning to build a test system for my office. A server running xenserver, allowing multiple OS installations. Can I LEGALLY install 1 copy of XP multiple times, as its on SAME COMPUTER??? Or do I need multiple licenses?


Thanks in advance!

 

[MrChad]

You need multiple licenses.

 

[nerp]

A "virtual" machine still counts as a machine.

 

[g8wayrebel]

If it is a test system and you don't mind the hassle , set it up on virtual and remove /reinstall before it times out.
That doesn't legally violate the the TOS and protects the primary install from any issues.
Most of the magazine editors do this very thing to test new programs and compatibilities.

 

[oog]

the same isn't true of server licenses. you can install multiple instances of the server OS as virtual machines. the number you're allowed to install depends on which edition you get.

 

[DaFinn]

Thanks guys for the repplies! Now, whats the situation with Vista versions. I have Vista business and Vista ultimate editions. Could these be intalled multiple times? My buddy at IBM said you could install ultimate version up to 4 times, but wasn't sure of business. Where are we with this? I just want to be sure.

 

[VirtualLarry]

Originally posted by: nerp
A "virtual" machine still counts as a machine.

Windows is licensed per PHYSICAL computer. Running software that simulates multiple computers on top of one physical computer doesn't change that fact. Regardless if MS's activation scheme causes issues actually implementing that.

 

[mechBgon]

Originally posted by: DaFinn
Thanks guys for the repplies! Now, whats the situation with Vista versions. I have Vista business and Vista ultimate editions. Could these be intalled multiple times? My buddy at IBM said you could install ultimate version up to 4 times, but wasn't sure of business. Where are we with this? I just want to be sure.

Read the End User License Agreement from start to finish. From the Vista Ultimate retail EULA, you have a proviso allowing you to run your Ultimate license inside itself (you'll find this under "MICROSOFT WINDOWS VISTA ULTIMATE SERVICE PACK 1: Additional License Terms"):

6. USE WITH VIRTUALIZATION TECHNOLOGIES. You may use the software installed on the licensed device within a virtual (or otherwise emulated) hardware system on the licensed device. If you do so, you may not play or access content or use applications protected by any Microsoft digital, information or enterprise rights management technology or other Microsoft rights management services or use BitLocker. We advise against playing or accessing content or using applications protected by other digital, information or enterprise rights management technology or other rights management services or using full volume disk drive encryption.

I suspect the same is true for Business, just check and be sure.