Microsoft is using its patch release process to crack down on pirate copies of the Windows operating system. Only valid copies of the ubiquitous software would be able to receive updates and security patches.

Software piracy is endemic in parts of the world, China in particular. Unfortunately China and the rest of the world is seen as the future growth engine for Microsoft. Lost sales in China amount to $2bn per year according to the company.

One executive stated that China is the second largest PC market in the world but only 25th by value of legitimate sales.

From 7th February, users in China, Norway and the Czech republic will have to demonstrate that they have a valid product key when downloading updates from the Microsoft website. Additionally a series of discounts would be offered to entice users to move to legitmate sources. The rest of the world will follow in the second half of the year.

Resellers and other suppliers of Windows products would might be at less of a disadvantage because of the move,

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