Microsoft Virtual PC (Virtualizing Windows 2000)

[Steven Wabik]

well, i looked at the web page and i saw something called WinImage. I think
that may work. i'll tell you how it goes.

 

[Steven Wabik]

not 100% in detail. does it really say that u cannot do that?

since when is sharing an ISO of an installation CD of an operating system
illegal?

It always has been. Ever read the EULA.?

 

[Gary S. Terhune]

Since as long as I can remember. Possession of the Activation Key is not
equal to legal license to the software, just like possession of the files
does not constitute legal license. It's a package deal. Files, Activation
Key and license. That's why your files don't work. Because they are OEM
files with an OEM license that MS does not permit to be installed in VPC.

I'm sure I could eventually find the provision in Microsoft's Windows 2000
Pro Retail EULA that prohibits distributing the software in any manner not
covered by their exceptions, and I'm fairly certain that your "exception"
does not qualify. I might be wrong, especially in the case of that multi-PC
incense, but a simple call to the contacts already provided would settle the
question. Why don't you call?

 

[Mike Brannigan]

not 100% in detail. does it really say that u cannot do that?

You may not distribute unauthorized copies of Microsoft operating systems.
So no one (other than Microsoft) can legitimately provide you with an copy
on CD or an ISO of a CD, irrespective of if you have the certificate of
authenticity for your original Windows 2000 CD etc..
If you have such a close relationship with Microsoft that you are already
engaged on the Windows "7" joint development program then just talk to your
internal contacts and they will be able to sort you out.

 

[Mike Brannigan]

Steve,

as an appendix to my last post.
It should be worth noting that Microsoft can non longer supply Windows 2000
"due to the terms of Java-related settlements Microsoft made with Sun
Microsystems. This product is no longer available from Microsoft in any
form, but may be available through third-party resellers or Web sites." <--
from the MSDN download site.
So your only option is to buy one on e-bay or elsewhere. Microsoft cannot
provide you with an ISO or media (legally).

Mike Brannigan