Pirated Software

Lots of these have been going on for a while already. I think I need to emphasize on this as a user and also as a seller. I also wish to use the latest Windows 10 on my home PC but alas, I'm still using Windows 7 Home. I use Google Docs and Sheets for my Word and Spreadsheet work. Of course, I can't be compared with corporate businesses where they need to use the latest application where everyone uses to ease their workflow.

This licensing products are important especially if you're in a company or doing a business either Business to Business or Business to Consumer. This is to let anyone know that your company is legit and trustworthy.

We used to have a tendency to go for pirated software. Why? Because it is cheaper. Especially for home users, they do not thing that its a wrong thing to buy pirated software. But we have to think that how did the pirated software come about? Pirated software are cheaper and to some, they might think that they do not have anything important to hide in their personal computer. But we actually do. We use our own internet line for online transactions, purchasing online, online banking, we even store important photos in our personal computers. And these information can be leaked out thru having pirated software.

To understand the clear picture of how pirated software come about, here is a link that defines the definition of Pirated Software. https://www.techopedia.com/definition/9451/software-pirate

In simple terms, hackers programs a license software until the software does not require a key to open or use the software. However, the hidden secret is that if the hacker is able to open up a licensed software, won't the hacker have a hidden key or back-door that they can also access the broken software? Think about it. You as a consumer is using a pirated software at home. And nowadays everything is connected via the internet. Don't you think the hacker can also access your computer via internet with the software that is already broken by the key (license)? You might think that "I'm only an ordinary and no one famous for them to rob me of my personal belongings". But imagine if the hackers were to steal just a cent each day or each time you log on to the internet. Not only stealing our money but also stealing our personal data.

And using pirated software in a business.. think of the consequences....

The link on this post practically explains everything. And I have seen some companies purchasing them off the online market place.

https://www.techbarrista.com/cheap-software-licence-keys-are-they-legit/

Microsoft Office Activation with Product Key

I recalling a post I made earlier, regarding Microsoft Office registration via email. It is true at some point, but unfortunately, it doesn't stop there. Somehow, email verification isn't working correctly. And at some point, Microsoft stills wants you to call and talk to the machine or a person to verify that you bought a licensed Microsoft product. 

This happened to me just yesterday. I remember registering the Microsoft Office on a new Dell desktop sometime in October 2017. The Microsoft Office comes in a small box without CD. Its instruction asks you to setup an email to link with the product key given inside the box. From the newly registered email, a Microsoft Office link is to be downloaded with the encrypted product key. Once installed, the email will act as a sign in account to verify and activate the licensed product. Which I did it.

Yesterday, I got called up by the customer, came over and surprised to find that the Microsoft Office product is showing Unverified License! I keyed in the email registered to the product key, it didn't work. No choice, I had to call Microsoft to get the Installation ID. Somehow, not all the customer service number works for me. This number is the only one I manage to get thru 1800-80-1432.

Anyway, after pressing some numbers and following the instructions, They placed me on hold for 7 minutes then the line got cut off. I had to redial and go thru the same process again. Lucky this time a customer service officer pick up the line. And manage to re-ACTIVATE the Microsoft Office product.

It appears that, even with email activation, a proper phone activation is still required now. Not as before when email activation was not implemented, only an online activation is required.

I guess its a safer way for Microsoft to keep track and protect its software usage from pirated? Nevertheless, I still prefer a simpler way of activation than to call. What are your thoughts?

Installing Microsoft Office Products needs online registration 2016

Some or many of IT personnel may have already know this. Some consumer may not know. But I just thought of sharing my knowledge anyway.

New Microsoft Office products 2016. When installing on new or old computers or laptops, its no longer easy. When you get your MSOffice product key, you will first need to Download the installer pack.

In some cases especially new computers and laptop that is pre-installed with Windows 10 already comes with a pre-installed Microsoft Office 2016 icon. Where when you double click, you will be asked if you want to test Trial the Microsoft Office, Buy online or Activate.

1- In which if you already have your Microsoft Office product key prior to buying off shelves at the computer store, you first click on the Activate button.
2- You then key in the product key
3- It will then open up the browser (https://setup.office.com) and ask you to sign in or create new id. In this case, its actually creating a new email account with outlook.com / hotmail.com / live.com
4- Once you have created or sign in, you will be given a link to download and install the Microsoft Office product based on the product you purchased. Home & Student or Home & Business.

NOTE: If you have multiple computers to install the original licensed Microsoft Office, it is advisable to have individual email account. Rather than one email account for all. (Microsoft Customer Service Officer advised me on that).

Everything has to be done online mostly now. This knowledge sharing of Microsoft Office is if you buy off the shelf. Office 365, is done all online thru the browser but with similar steps involved.