TechNet Activation Keys: First There Were 10, Then 5 And Now A Mere 3
Author of many Microsoft reference books and blogger, Ed Bott, has reported that Microsoft is slashing the number of keys handed out to TechNet subscribers for the second time in two years, because of piracy. For around 230 ($350) TechNet Professional subscribers get to download ISOs of nearly every release of every operating system, including servers, Office suits and many other high-priced products. The licences are valid only for evaluation purposes, but the products are actually fully functioning retail products, just without the disc, box and the official fancy paper licence with the key printed on it. However, it appears that piracy of these products is rampant, with dishonest subscribers flogging them on the likes of eBay and to friends.
In an effort to reduce this, two years ago, Microsoft cut the number of keys issued from 10 to 5. However, it appears that this wasn’t enough, so they will now be reducing the number of keys to a mere 3. Additionally, the number of keys claimed, is now reduced to 44 in any 24 hour period. Unsurprisingly, there is no mention of a price cut for the subscription to sweeten the deal. So, will this achieve the desired effect, or just annoy their loyal, honest customers and drive them away, some to Linux? Presumably, the ultimate deterrant will be to issue no keys at all.
See the TechNet FAQ about keys and activations (doesn’t mention number of keys issued).
Beginning in mid-March 2012, subscribers to TechNet Subscriptions (excluding TechNet Standard which are entitled to 2 keys per product) may access a maximum allocation of three (3) product keys for Microsoft Office and Windows Client products in connection with their subscription. The allotted keys may only be used for software evaluation purposes. Once the maximum keys have been activated, no more keys will be made available. Additional product keys may be acquired through the purchase of an additional subscription.
Why has Microsoft limited my access to product keys?
We are acting to protect the value of your subscription. If we did not act to prevent abuse of subscriptions we would eventually have to either limit the products available in a subscription or raise the price of your subscription. We believe that this is the best compromise to continue to deliver the highest value to you while limiting abuse at the same time.
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