Windows licenses from Ebay

[Terry Kennedy]

I thought OEM keys were predicated on having a matching BIOS signature and cert.

The OEM key (generally just one for any combination of version + platform + feature set, like Win 7 x64 Ultimate) is checked against "magic footprints" in the system. However, the key shown on the COA sticker on the system is unique to that system. Users are expected to use the key from the COA sticker if they ever need to re-install Windows.

 

[Ellwood]

Microsoft Partner program only applicable if you work for a company that is already in the program or you have a business that can be enrolled.
Need more than just an MCP and a credit card.

Not exactly, you literally just need a website and email address to put into their form fields, plus the name you call yourself/business. You can get the cheapest web address you can find and go from there.

You don't even have to be an MCP, it doesn't get you any additional discount (unless my CA tax ate up the additional discount)

 

[Evan]

I think they look to make sure you have a DUNS number, or an entry at least for your business with Dun & Bradstreet, they use their DB to confirm your type of business etc I read in one of their documents.

 

[Ellwood]

I think they look to make sure you have a DUNS number, or an entry at least for your business with Dun & Bradstreet, they use their DB to confirm your type of business etc I read in one of their documents.

Ok, I only have a single point of evidence. I literally made up my business name and website (registered with Google domains), and had no problem. But, it's possible I was a fluke. I'd say it couldn't hurt too much to try, or just take the eBay route, since there you can at least get Datacenter licenses.

 

[Evan]

Ok, I only have a single point of evidence. I literally made up my business name and website (registered with Google domains), and had no problem. But, it's possible I was a fluke. I'd say it couldn't hurt too much to try, or just take the eBay route, since there you can at least get Datacenter licenses.

If you have a business it's highly likely that D&B has a record for you as well but may not be a mandatory check.

 

[T_Minus]

D&B just wants to extort $ once their data shows you're a real business... o.k back on track

 

[NetWise]

Man, how is this passing anyone's smell test?

You're buying keys, not licences. Nothing going on is legal or would hold up if audited. Yes, the keys activate. Yes, you can download updates. That doesn't give you a licence.

Additionally if you have MSDN or Technet or any of the other programs, they're _subscriptions_. So the "just register, download it all, and then cancel" still won't be "licensed". Neither is "oh, I still have some unused keys from a few years ago. You can use the keys and licences so long as you have a subscription, but after you need to stop using them - it's in the EULA.

Now, I don't _care_ what anyone here chooses to do. But you all may as well be using a keygen, if you're using these pay for codes that are _clearly_ not passing any sniff test - or audit.

 

[Fritz]

 

[AFisher]

Microsoft Partner program only applicable if you work for a company that is already in the program or you have a business that can be enrolled.
Need more than just an MCP and a credit card.

Actually, All you need is an MCP, and a Credit card, there is only an address validation of the "business" and not EIN check...I know this because I had to set up the partner program for myself, I have no real business and defiantly no EIN