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Appendix: Information sent to Microsoft during activation

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When a computer running a currently supported version of Windows is activated, the following information is sent to Microsoft:

  • The Microsoft product code (a five-digit code that identifies the Windows product being activated).

  • A channel ID or site code that identifies how the Windows product was originally obtained. For example, a channel ID or site code identifies whether the product was:

    • Originally purchased from a retail store.
    • Obtained as an evaluation copy.
    • Obtained through a volume licensing program.
    • Preinstalled by a computer manufacturer.

  • The date of installation and whether the installation was successful.

  • Information that helps confirm that the Windows product key isn't altered.

  • Computer make and model.

  • Version information for the operating system and software.

  • Region and language settings.

  • A unique number called a globally unique identifier (GUID), which is assigned to the computer.

  • Product key (hashed) and product ID.

  • BIOS name, revision number, and revision date.

  • Volume serial number (hashed) of the hard disk drive.

  • The result of the activation check.

    This result includes error codes and the following information about any activation exploits and related malicious or unauthorized software that was found or disabled:

    • The identifier of the activation exploit.

    • The current state of the activation exploit, such as cleaned or quarantined.

    • Computer manufacturer's identification.

    • The file name and hash of the activation exploit in addition to a hash of related software components that might indicate the presence of an activation exploit.

  • The name and a hash of the contents of the computer's startup instructions file.

  • If the Windows license is on a subscription basis, information about how the subscription works.

Standard computer information is also sent, but the computer's IP address is only kept temporarily.

Use of information

Microsoft uses the information to confirm a properly licensed copy of the software. Microsoft doesn't use the information to contact individual consumers.

For more information, see Microsoft Privacy Statement.

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