by Lam Luu

Created on: April 01, 2009

All of us have had some experiences (either voluntary or not) with Microsoft Windows. Everytime we start using a new Windows, we would says "I agree" to Microsoft's EULA (End User License Agreement), right? So, here is the question: what does Microsoft actually write in that long piece of legal writing (whose English is guaranteed to break your mind if you attempt to read it)? When we use, says, GNU/Linux, we would be greeted with a big notice, saying "This software coming with ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY", how about Microsoft? Does it, the largest software company on Earth, offer us any better deal?

Well, unfortunately, not much. As a matter of fact, in its EULA, Microsoft only seeks to protect itself from any possible way you can ever get a meaningful legal protection, as well as give Microsoft as much space to deal with the government as possible, without regarding to your own privacy and/or (if you care) your freedom. Don't agree? How about this: I will walk you over the EULA (in this case, Microsoft Windows XP Profession EULA) and show you what you really pay for.

In general, 45% of the EULA is devoted for limiting your rights on the software (which, by all means, you pay for). Another good 40% is devoted to limiting your legal remedies. Only 15% of the EULA is actually talking about what you can do. Oh, don't be happy too soon, at the end, Microsoft carefully note that "Microsoft reserves all rights not expressly granted to you in this EULA." So, all you have is the little 15% of the EULA where Microsoft says what you can do. Now, those numbers should help you prepare yourself. Ready? I will quote from the EULA, and give you a short explanation. Let's go.

*Your precious rights to the product*

Quote:

"You may install, use, access, display and run one copy of the Product on a single computer"

"The Product may not be used by more than two (2) processors at any one time on any single Workstation Computer"

"You may permit a maximum of ten (10) computers or other electronic devices (each a "Device") to connect to the Workstation Computer to utilize the services of the Product solely for File and Print services, Internet Information Services, and remote access (including connection sharing and telephony services). The ten connection maximum includes any indirect connections made through "multiplexing" or other software or hardware which pools or aggregates connections."

"you may not use the Product to permit any Device to use, access, display or run other executable software

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