Update: No WinXP SP2 for Pirated Copies

[Julio Franco]

For a moment I almost convinced myself that Microsoft was acting in good faith by letting pirated copies of Windows XP use the upcoming Service Pack 2 that includes many security enhancements. The good news didn't last long however, Microsoft has now corrected previous reports and confirmed that SP2 will only install on licensed copies of the Operating System.

"Recent press reports indicating Windows XP Service Pack 2 will install on pirated or illegal copies of Windows XP are not entirely true," said a Microsoft spokesperson. "Instead, prior to installing, SP2 will check the OS' product ID [PID] against a list of known pirated PIDs. If a PID is found to be invalid, SP2 will not install." This behavior is essentially similar to that of Windows XP SP1.

This come as a surprise because of previous reports quoting Microsoft employees, in the other hand, I can already hear the voices of many blaming Microsoft for this decision.

To round things up... SP2 being offered even to pirate copies would have shown a lot of sensitivity from the software giant (who holds a large and wealthy bank account, btw) however we should admit that they are not doing anything wrong in protecting its flagship product from pirates in a large scale... aside from any issues you may have with MS, it's common business practice IMO.

 

[EvilKernel]

Yeah, those measures worked out great for SP1

 

[erickdj]

Well, we'll see if they can keep me from getting my hands on sp2. I'll only get it if it's worth the download.

 

[Spike]

Soooooo,

What about the untold millions of pirated copies of WinXP that look like the genuine product, and have been installed with valid product keys???

Personally, I think they'd do more for their reputation if they allowed pirated copies to install sp2.

 

[BrownPaper]

i do not think it would matter if microsoft does not allow sp2 to be installed on pirated copies. someone will find a way to install sp2 anyways.

 

[Masque]

I agree. We'll just have to see if they've gotten any smarter. If memory serves me correctly, the hack for XP prior to the SP1 install was out within about 24 hours of it's release by some Aussies. I wouldn't be surprised if somebody releases something 24 hours prior if their bad-copy catch system is different just to make them look bad (as if they haven't already).

 

[agissi]

Ha, there will be a crack for that in 2secs.

 

[Rick]

.. Probably even before it is released.

 

[Moimit]

Note by moderators: Piracy is strictly forbidden! Only do this if you actually own a real copy of windows