TechNet "is" ok for use on home computers

pparks1 · 11 Aug 2009

So, after debating this issue with several on this forum and discussing the technet licensing agreement over and over again, I finally picked up the phone and called MS directly to get the official response on this.

They said, the use of TechNet software for a single individual across multiple machines in a home environment for testing purposes was not a violation of the license agreement and would not be considered a problem in the event that you were ever audited by Microsoft. He said as long as you aren't running, supporting, operating a business with the TechNet software, you are within your legal rights to use and evaluate the software however you see fit and for as long as necessary.

So, for anybody that has been concerned about this or considering the purchase of a Technet subscription to get Windows 7 Ultimate (or other software) installed for a cheaper price than standard licensing as long as you aren't sharing with your friends and using the software in a business environment...you are good to go.

Just wanted to share...since my understanding has always been different on this program.

If somebody else feels the need to call for clarification, the number I dialed was 1-800-344-2121.

Zidane24 · 11 Aug 2009

Thank you very much...that ought to get folks to hush who keep complaining about it...MODs please sticky this

masterB · 11 Aug 2009

Antman · 11 Aug 2009

You will NEVER see MS put that in writing.

Don't ask, don't tell.

This cannot really be "stickied". That would constitute legal counsel.

Good work though. But, of course, I can't tell you that. Pparks who?

Zidane24 · 11 Aug 2009

Antman said:

You will NEVER see MS put that in writing.

Don't ask, don't tell.

This cannot really be "stickied". That would constitute legal counsel.

Good work though. But, of course, I can't tell you that. Pparks who?

If anything let it be stickied that the argument about the use of technet is very grey...arguing either way is neither correct nor incorrect. Moral of the story: if you got it use it...if you don't well don't. If you want to make money off of it be prepared to be contacted by Microsoft

24c · 11 Aug 2009

Good job -

banderz777 · 11 Aug 2009

That is how i see it also, Thanks pparks1.

pparks1 · 11 Aug 2009

While Microsoft is not likely going to put this directly into writing, it's quite clear from the person that I spoke with today that they would never pursue a legal issue against somebody using Technet software for themselves in their own home as long as they aren't running/supporting a business endeavor.

I was always a believer that you couldn't use the software long term because of the way the agreement read. That's why I called them to hear exactly what they would say. They said, well technically you would be evaluating our software and testing various applications and scenarios and that's within the license provided. We state specifically that there are no time limits, so it can be evaluated indefinitely.

Since there is nothing more clear in the agreement, then we have to go based on what is stated in there. Just don't share this with others and don't run a business and I don't think they actually have a leg to stand on.

I'm certain that if this was a violation the MS guy would have had NO ISSUES whatsoever telling me to buy a license another way and that I could not do this. But he never suggested once that another license would be required. He just warned to not attempt to use this software in a business endeavour.

DataMan47 · 11 Aug 2009

pparks1 said:

He just warned to not attempt to use this software in a business endeavour.

That's because the BSA only audits businesses; they couldn't audit homes because they would have no legal grounds to do so (they're already on shaky grounds with auditing businesses) and because it would simply not be worth the resources needed.

And no, MSFT will never put this into writing. The EULA and the accompanying FAQ has always been pretty clear in its prohibition, but there's always been a sort of tacit acknowledgment that people do use it at home for general use, and MSFT doesn't (and can't) enforce it. There have been MSFT employees whose blogs have more or less suggested the same thing (there was one a couple of weeks back suggesting "install parties").

My understanding has always been that it's de jure prohibited, but de facto okay, and whether or not it's okay boils down to whether or not you care about the distinction between the two.

darkassain · 11 Aug 2009

pparks1 said:

I'm certain that if this was a violation the MS guy would have had NO ISSUES whatsoever telling me to buy a license another way and that I could not do this. But he never suggested once that another license would be required. He just warned to not attempt to use this software in a business endeavour.

this is good news as most were trying to find a straight answer to this question all along

as with most companies as long as you don't profit from their software you are fine...:)
and since you are saying that at no time did he offer you to buy a license of Windows, this further straightens the argument that is not in violation of the EULA...

I was always a believer that you couldn't use the software long term because of the way the agreement read. That's why I called them to hear exactly what they would say. They said, well technically you would be evaluating our software and testing various applications and scenarios and that's within the license provided. We state specifically that there are no time limits, so it can be evaluated indefinitely.

if i had to justify why i would use it for home use i would say the same thing...