Activation

May 28, 2007 06:52 GMT  ·  By

In response to customer feedback, Microsoft has presented the main reasons why it requires Windows Live OneCare activation. In the Redmond Company's view, activating the product is much more than simply keeping track of its usage across a number of machines. Currently, users can install the same copy of OneCare on no more than three computers. And because Windows Live OneCare is a subscription based service, in contrast to a traditional software package, Microsoft has also integrated Windows Live ID into the activation process.

The company has explained this initiative as designed to deliver customers with an effortless method to interact with the OneCare account. Multi digit product keys, are in this manner no longer required when it comes down to activating additional machines or accessing support.

Activation - believes Microsoft - is necessary: "for verification that (users) want to begin their OneCare service and to the start the subscription. To ensure that all continuous servicing happens including daily malware signature updates, weekly firewall policies, and updates with new features and enhancements. Finally, to allow our support teams to provide you with better support and the right level of support. For instance, one of the benefits of a paid OneCare subscription is phone support."

By associating a Windows Live ID to a Windows Live OneCare subscription, Microsoft is also making the process of setting up the remaining two installs, on top of the main deployment, as effortless as possible.

"So how exactly does activation work? After installing OneCare, either a free trial version or a paid version you will find an action item in the main interface that asks you to "Activate your OneCare Subscription." To activate you just need to click on the "Activate" button. You will then be asked to name your computer. Next, you will be asked to provide a Windows Live ID. If you do not already have one then you can create one on the spot. Finally, if you purchased the product in a retail store you will need to provide your Product Key, this is a 15 character code that is provided to you with your software purchase that you will need to type in. Once you are finished you should close the browser and remember to click "Finish" in the OneCare client," a Windows Live OneCare Program Manager explained.