Microsoft has finalized their license terms for Windows 10, and there doesn’t appear to be any surprises. As Terry Myerson has stated time and time again, the “Windows as a service” only refers to Microsoft’s new update method for Windows 10. Here are some things you should know.
- The transfer rights are just the same on Windows 10 as was on Windows 7 and 8.1. So if your PC is running a retail version of Windows 10, you can still transfer your Windows 10 operating system to another PC provided Windows 10 has been uninstalled on your other PC. Of course, if you’re running an OEM version of Windows 10, then it’s locked on that device.
- If you have an OEM edition of Windows 10 Pro, your downgrade rights remain largely the same. In the new agreement, you may only downgrade to a supported version of Windows under the 10-year lifespan. So your downgrade rights for Windows 7 end on 2020, and Windows 8.1 ends 2023.
- Windows 10 delivers automatic updates without users being able to delay or reject updates on consumers’ and small business PCs. According to the terms “The software periodically checks for system and app updates, and downloads and installs them for you…. By accepting this agreement, you agree to receive these types of automatic updates without any additional notice.” Luckily for business customers, they have advanced options for Windows Update, and enterprise users can assign mission-critical devices to the Long Term Servicing Branch, including only security fixes, but no feature updates.
- As per usual, Windows 10 does require activation. The new agreement states that upgrading a PC from a non-genuine copy of Windows does not make your final version genuine, and as such, you are not licensed to use the software.
- And finally, some editions of Windows 10 come with Microsoft Office programs that are to be used only for personal and non-commercial purposes. Businesses will need an Office 365 subscription to use the software commercially.
Like I said, there’s really nothing surprising in the new EULA. What do you think about the Windows 10 licensing terms? Tell us what you think in the comments below.
Further reading: EULA, Microsoft, Windows 10
