What Is Volume License Activation?
Volume Activation is a new requirement in order to use Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008, even if purchased under a volume license agreement. This was not the case with Windows XP, as you only needed to enter a volume license product key in order to use it. It is likely that future Microsoft products will also need to be activated.
There are two methods you can use to activate Microsoft volume license products:
- Key Management Service (KMS) - This service is provided by OIT for all of NC State University to use
- Multiple Activation Key (MAK) - You must check with your software coordinator in order to use this method
Vista activation requirements can be confusing. Our Vista Activation Timeframe & Deadlines page tries to help you sort out the details.
For detailed information regarding Volume Activation, see:
Windows Vista Volume Activation 2.0 Step-By-Step Guide
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/windowsvista/plan/volact1.mspx
Windows Vista Volume Activation 2.0 FAQ
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/windowsvista/plan/faq.mspx
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