Windows 8 has become a very popular operating system among Windows users. However, Microsoft has done things a bit differently for its users. Previously, the product key on a computer that had an operating system preinstalled was printed on a label. For laptops, the label was placed on the bottom of the laptop near the battery compartment. On desktop computers, this label can be found on the side of the computer. However, Microsoft has decided to do things a little differently by embedding the product key for the new Windows 8 operating system into the computer’s BIOS. This move will affect the user in several ways, as there are various advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages of Embedded BIOS Product Key
The first advantage that the user will get from this is that he does not need to search for the product key every time he needs to reinstall Windows. In the past, when reinstalling the operating system, the user had to find the original key and enter it before continuing with the installation. This can sometimes be difficult for some users. The Authentication Certificate label may wear off and the digits may be difficult to read. In fact, the digits were sometimes too small to read. However, since the key is now embedded in the BIOS, the operating system will immediately recognize it and proceed with the installation without prompting for this activation information.
Users can now be sure they are getting genuine Windows products. In the past, people sold pirated OS and used a generic product key. However, after some time, the user would receive a notification that their product is not genuine. This means that they would not receive support or updates from Microsoft. However, if it is set in the BIOS, they will not need to obtain a generic product key from an untrusted source.
Microsoft itself will benefit greatly from this. In the past, people used to share product keys. This increased the opportunities for copyright infringement and piracy. However, if the activation details are built into the BIOS, they cannot be used by another computer. This will reduce cases of hacking and sharing of activation details.
Disadvantages of setting product keys in the BIOS
The fact that the activation details cannot be used on any other computer could be a disadvantage for some users. For example, in case the PC or laptop dies or the motherboard stops working, the Operating System dies with it. This means that they cannot try to reinstall the system after replacing the motherboard. This is because the activation details were locked in the original BIOS.
Also, each key is linked to a PC. Therefore, if a PC dies and the owner is forced to buy a new one, he will also have to buy another operating system. They will not be able to use the installation disc they already have on this new computer.
This new route that Microsoft has taken has advantages and disadvantages. However, unless one damages their computer or motherboard, they will be able to enjoy using the operating system without any problem.