TechNet "is" ok for use on home computers

[pparks1]

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]

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

 

[masterB]

 

[Antman]

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]

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]

Good job -

 

[banderz777]

That is how i see it also, Thanks pparks1.

 

[pparks1]

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]

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]

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...

 

[Dorfdad]

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.

And why would they pursue you? You paid! I mean the whole point is they got something from you. If they were serious about cracking down on the whole Piracy thing they would have to look hard at China and others who have 90% pirate rates..

I payed 300.00 and I'm using this at home and I'm educating myself on Microsoft products. Thats what it's for..

It sounds to good to be true but so many people do not know about these deals.

 

[Airbot]

I hear a JohnGalt a coming.

 

[pparks1]

I hear a JohnGalt a coming.

That's perfectly fine. I was going back and forth with him yesterday and I had to find out for myself and I'm 100% willing to admit when I am wrong. And that is why I bothered to start another thread and let other people know exactly what Microsoft told me.

I had heard differently in the past, but after speaking with them tonight, I would have no reservations whatsoever about buying Technet instead of 3 individual licenses for Windows 7 Ultimate on my home machines.

 

[zrtom]

Good job pparks1!
I, personally, think everything necessary to decide already is in writing.
MS provides definitions for live operating and staging environments. Those are the prohibited uses. Res ipsa loquitur.

I've been a TechNet subscriber for several years but all the Hoodoo of late got me to review the license agreement again and in fact, get a legal opinion on it.
The opinion for my particular case was to keep buying it and keep using it....the way I always have.
Tom

 

[BishopLord]

It sounds to good to be true but so many people do not know about these deals.

And even more people don't realize that there is a promo code discount every month of the year for 25% off or more for the TechNet subscription.

I find it funny reading posts on various forums where people say that paying $200, $300 or whatever for a TechNet subscription is too much or a rip off. Hmm, pay $199 for a single license, or pay $260 for the first year "subscription" to access the entire Microsoft Library. Perhaps it may not be "worth it" if you subscribe during an off year, but this year, you get first crack at Windows 7 RTM months ahead of the general public.

 

[pparks1]

Of course, some people only have 1 computer in their house and my be just fine with windows 7 home premium and could obtain for $109. It's entirely possible they would have no need for anything else that comes with TechNet...thus making it a bit of a bad investment for them.

 

[Dark Nova Gamer]

I think I will get TechNet somewhere in the near future. After of course, I get my own WIFI. Tired of moving around to keep my signal good with my neighbor.

 

[tw33k]

I was always under this impression but I am glad that this has clarified.

 

[Stranger]

And even more people don't realize that there is a promo code discount every month of the year for 25% off or more for the TechNet subscription.

I find it funny reading posts on various forums where people say that paying $200, $300 or whatever for a TechNet subscription is too much or a rip off.

what I find even funnier :roflmao:is that many of those using the discounts could qualify for BizSpark

 

[pparks1]

what I find even funnier :roflmao:is that many of those using the discounts could qualify for BizSpark

I'm not sure how many of us enthusiasts here are running our own software business startup company. But if you are, and you're making less than 1 million annually, are privately held and have been around for less than 3 years...definitely check out BizSpark.