Microsoft windows 10 home license agreement. License agreement - what is it? Terms of license agreements. Basic principles of Microsoft licensing policy

The rules have changed dramatically.

Windows licensing has always been opaque and nebulous. For example, Windows 7 had a retail version, an OEM version, and enterprise editions. In theory, the OEM version (that is, when the OS shipped with new computer hardware) was tied to the hardware it shipped with. Retail retail versions were “portable”, and the user was able to carry his copy of Windows 7 from one computer to another, provided that the system will no longer be used on the old machine. Most retail versions were used specifically for installation on modernized machines or computers with manual assembly of individual components. Typically you would have to re-authorize your copy of Windows to new system, but in most cases this procedure was only a formality.

In the long term, portability is not a feature of the free version of Windows 10. When you install Windows 10, Microsoft's activation servers create and store a unique identifier based on the old key and the current machine's hardware configuration. New Windows 10 will be tied to the updated system, and the original Windows key 7/8.1 will no longer be valid. (This way, you will be able to roll back to Windows 7, but you will not be able to run the original OS and Windows 10 at the same time, for example, in virtual machine or in multi-OS mode at boot).

Comment from a Microsoft official: “ After the first year, you will no longer be able to transfer the copy to another device, because... the update is tied to a specific computer, and not to a license or account Windows entries. A year after Windows release 10, if the device has not been updated to Windows, the user will need to separately purchase a copy of Windows 10 from the Microsoft Store or from authorized Microsoft product distributors”.

The best part is that if you end up buying the retail version of Windows 10, you will be able to freely move it from one computer to another - this version comes with a portable feature.

However, you can still upgrade your Windows 10 system. Just as with previous versions of Windows (usually tied to the Windows Genuine Advantage program), you will need to call Microsoft to reactivate your license if you change the main components of your computer after upgrading to Windows 10 (many users find this annoying, but in reality it is not a very painful process).

Unfortunately, the criteria for changes that require system reactivation are quite vague. For example, when adding RAM, reactivation is not required, but when replacing motherboard it is needed (in OEM versions, replacing the motherboard is allowed only if the PC is still under warranty).

Other general questions about updating Windows 10

Many users ask if it is possible to reserve a free upgrade now and upgrade later. The answer is very simple: if you update before the end of July 2016, consumer versions of Windows 10 will be free for you. After July 2016 you will need to purchase a Windows 10 license.

Some Windows users are wondering if they can buy a copy of Windows 10 for free now and start using the new OS after July 2016. As a rule, these users are waiting for the moment when developers third party applications will add support for Windows 10 to programs for corporate needs. To defer a Windows 10 migration, users must create backup copy Windows 7/8.1 system, then install the free update and roll back to Windows 7/8.1. This way, they can upgrade to the free version of Windows 10 whenever they want.

However, on older systems you may need to enter the Windows 10 license key. You can find it using special key viewers, for example, the NirSoft Producey utility (oddly enough, Google search displays a large number of sites selling keys for free this moment Windows 10).

New systems with UEFI and Microsoft Data Management support will store the Windows 10 key in the motherboard firmware. If you restore Windows 10 to its original state or perform a clean installation, the operating system will find the license key on its own.

In any case, your system should be successfully upgraded to Windows 10. Only then will it be added to the whitelist of Microsoft products as genuine. Are you currently being asked for a key during re Windows installations 10, You can use a shared key (Figure 1).


Upgrading from 32-bit Windows to 64-bit

Retail versions of Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 8.1 included two installation media - one for 32-bit systems and one for 64-bit systems. Free Windows version 10 only allows you to upgrade to a system with identical original system bit depth. In other words, you can only upgrade a 32-bit Windows 7 to a 32-bit version of Windows 10. Assuming that no one wants to upgrade a 64-bit system to a 32-bit system, then to upgrade from a 32-bit system to a 64-bit system you need will perform a clean install original Windows 7/8.1 using the 64-bit installation media, and then upgrade to Windows 10.

Upgrade only to similar versions

The Windows 10 Free Update does not allow you to upgrade your version of Windows. If you own a Win7 Starter, Home Basic, or Home Premium license, you will receive Windows 10 Home, and if you have Windows 7/8.1 Pro, you will receive Windows 10 Pro respectively. Owners Windows licenses 7 Ultimate will also receive Windows 10 Pro due to the lack of an Ultimate version of Windows 10.

Some Windows users are complaining about the lack of Media Center in Windows 10. The corresponding page on the Microsoft web portal notes that on some systems you can get a DVD player application for free from Windows Store. Other users will be able to purchase this application. Of course, there are a large number of good third-party players on the Internet.

There is a whole list of functions that are no longer available on the corresponding page on the Microsoft website.

Yes, it's free, but with some caveats. As has been repeatedly reported, this free update will be available until July 2016. After this period, if you did not have time to take advantage of the free update, you will need to purchase Windows 10.

Everything can change. Apple users free OS updates are also always expected. For example, an iPhone can be upgraded for free until the new OS stops supporting older hardware. In some cases, you may still get the new OS, but the smartphone will not use some of the new features. At that moment, users usually change the phone to a new one, because... The old device won't hold a charge, but the larger screens and new features look tempting.

After all, Microsoft could adapt a similar business model: the operating system is just a platform for highly profitable services and software. But as the TechNet UK blog points out, the current free version Windows 10 has no expiration date - you won't have to pay for it in two or three years. Be that as it may, Microsoft plans to add new features to Windows 10, and at some point, some features may not work on your computer, or your device may stop receiving future updates altogether.

Is it possible to run Windows 10 in a virtual machine in dual boot mode?

Many cautious users tend to leave it on their Windows machines 7 or Windows 8, installing Windows 10 on a second drive or logical partition. Typically, they want to copy or image a Windows 7 installation, upgrade to Windows 10, and then restore the system to its original state on a different drive or partition. Sorry, but such actions are not allowed. If Windows 10 is installed, it takes over the original Windows 7/8.1 license. Within a month after Windows updates 10 allows you to downgrade to Windows 7 or Windows 8.1, but in this case the new OS is removed.

As always with Windows, virtual copies must have their own licenses, separate from the host systems. As mentioned on the TechNet UK blog, the Windows 10 license “allows you to install only one instance software for use on only one device, it does not matter whether it is physical or virtual. If you want to use the software on multiple devices, you need to purchase separate OS licenses for each of them.”

Windows as a service

The old Windows update model (XP, Vista, Windows 7 and Windows 8) seems to have fallen into disuse. New model is confusing for the long term Windows users. It assumes that for a specific machine you will only need to pay for Windows once - when you buy a new PC, order a retail version, or register for volume licensing. The main features of the “Windows as a Service” concept are:

  • You don't have to pay for Windows multiple times when using the same hardware - you always have latest version;
  • No more erasing and reinstalling updates;
  • Vendors and software developers can ensure that 90 percent of users have the same build.

Microsoft expects that the vast majority of users using the same version of the OS will simplify the process of developing third-party applications.

Enterprise customers should note: To upgrade to Windows 10, you must have a valid Software Assurance contract. If you simply purchased a Windows 7 Enterprise license, you do not have the right to upgrade to the new OS. Clients with a signed contract will be able to log in to the license Microsoft Center and download the Enterprise version. You will also need to renew your current Software Assurance contract to receive future Windows 10 updates.

Free does not mean without some costs. It probably comes as no surprise to many that the free update comes with limitations. Some may find them not too onerous, but you should familiarize yourself with them before upgrading. Whether you can work under these restrictions is up to you. If they are too critical, let us remind you that despite the fact that Windows 7 will not receive new improvements, Microsoft will fix errors and security problems of this OS until January 14, 2020, and the deadline Windows support 8 expires in 2023.

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Lawyers read the Windows 10 license agreement and grabbed their heads

Problem No. 1: Microsoft collects and stores the history of web pages visited by the user, passwords to sites, names of access points to which the user connected, and passwords to them. The problem is that the data is tied to a Microsoft account, the password for which can be hacked or stolen. In this case, the attacker will be able to find out literally everything about his victim. In addition, US law requires IT companies to disclose information about their clients at the request of the court and intelligence services. It turns out that in fact the user himself collects and sends a dossier on himself, which can be used against him.

Of course, data synchronization can (and should) be disabled. Microsoft decided to enable this option by default. Apparently, in the hope that most Windows 10 users are unlikely to become interested in the details of the implementation of this so-called synchronization.

Problem No. 2: the virtual assistant Cortana, which many have already called the virtual spy Cortana. By license Windows Agreement 10, Microsoft for the operation of Cortana has the right to collect Various types user data:

  • user coordinates;
  • fragments of mail correspondence and SMS;
  • data on calls made: who called whom, how often.
  • data about scheduled events from the user calendar;
  • data from the contact book;
  • and etc.

In addition, for the service to operate, information about the use of your device will be collected: what time the alarm is set, what music is on the device, what programs have been installed, what search queries have been made, etc. Of course, user voice samples will also be transferred to Microsoft servers for processing.

Don't forget to disable advertising ID sharing on all your Windows 10 devices!

Problem #4. The encryption key is also stored by Microsoft. This is surprising, but if you encrypted your data on the device using the standard BitLocker program, then Not only will you have the data access key, but Microsoft will also have it. The Windows 10 license states that the password will be copied to OneDrive servers controlled by Microsoft. As mentioned earlier, the company will be obliged to issue this key upon request of the authorized authorities, which deprives encryption in Windows 10 of any meaning.

Don't forget to install third party program encryption you can trust.

Problem #5. Microsoft may control your data. This is just an amazing clause in the Windows 10 license:

We will access, disclose and preserve personal data, including your content (such as the content of your emails, other private communications or files in private folders), when we have a good faith belief that doing so is necessary to protect our customers or enforce the terms governing the use of the services.

Personal correspondence, local files and other personal information may be disclosed not only at the request of the authorities, but simply if Microsoft shows up that this is necessary for some protection of their clients.

Add-ons

August 6: after the lawyers the fans read the agreement computer games. They found out that they will be releasing for Windows 10 automatic updates who will clean your computer from unlicensed games. In addition, the license contains a very strange clause that gives Microsoft the right to disable certain unauthorized devices on your computer. Perhaps we are talking about computer peripherals that are not certified by Microsoft. For example, third-party controllers for Xbox.

Microsoft has presented a license agreement for the new OS, which will apply to all users without exception. Ed Bott, an American journalist and IT specialist, analyzed the main points of the presented document and concluded that the company offers acceptable conditions for cooperation and work, so numerous clients can switch to a new version of Windows without any problems.

Transferring a license to another personal computer

The user is allowed to transfer the licensed version of the OS to any other device if he deleted it from the previous one. If the device has an OEM license, then transfer is not possible. Similar rules applied to previous versions of the system.

Downgrade to older version

If purchased Personal Computer with an OEM license, you can downgrade the Pro version to any other OS, if it is still supported. It is worth recalling that version 7 will be available until 2020, 8.1 until 2023. The rollback process, as Bott notes, can be significantly complicated on the software side of the issue.

Security updates and changes

The terms of the agreement provide that the average user does not have the right to refuse or delay installing updates. Moreover, this process will be completely automatic. The installer will check for new files on the servers, then download and install them. After acceptance, the PC owner automatically agrees that updates will occur without his knowledge. It is worth noting that updating your operating systems corporate clients can do it manually.

Commercial use of MS Office

Some editions of 10 (most likely meaning Mobile) have MS Office programs that can be used by users exclusively for non-commercial purposes. If otherwise required, you must purchase Office 365 Business.

The American expert is convinced that Microsoft is unlikely to ever require payment for downloading new files: “It’s hard to imagine that the corporation is giving out billions for free licensed copies to then demand money for updates. The company has such a solid image that this is simply ridiculous and impossible in principle.”

Many of us have at least once installed any programs on our computer, and so at the beginning of installing any application, we are asked to read some text with subparagraphs and check the box below “I have read and agree with the requirements.” This text is called a software license agreement. Most people don’t even read this kind of information, and this happens because it would be much easier for a modern person not to pay attention to it than to devote 10 minutes of his time to reading. Let's take a closer look at this issue and make sure that reading and understanding the essence of such texts is mandatory for every software user.

General concepts

Let's start with the very concept of a license agreement (hereinafter referred to as LS) - on the transfer of rights to use licenses, know-how, trademarks, etc.

The owner of the invention who gives his consent to the use of the patent is called the licensor, and the one who receives permission is called the licensee.

Let us briefly outline the responsibilities of both.

The licensor is responsible for:

  • ensuring the opportunity to exercise the rights transferred to them;
  • novelty and relevance of the invention;
  • economic efficiency patent under the contract;
  • timely payment;
  • transfer of all innovations developed during the validity of the agreement.

The licensee is responsible for:

  • timely payment of remuneration;
  • compliance with technical and quality standards in order to maintain the reputation of the licensor;
  • immediate notification in case of patent infringement;
  • safety of secret data, in case of loss of which the licensee is obliged to compensate for all damages associated with this situation.

Classification

The following types of agreements are distinguished:

  1. Patent licenses. Agreements of this type are often used in industrial production, during the transfer of certain technologies with subsequent rights to use them. Often these types of arrangements are legally protected. Also, licenses of this type can be divided into several - trademarks, inventions, industrial products and others...
  2. Licenses for "know-how". Here, patents can be Newest technologies, technology that is at the development stage, but has prospects, unique information about a particular invention. Since know-how refers to patents that can be created by any person, both its registration and the transfer of rights are formalized as separate drugs. For example, in the USA, it is customary for many companies to transfer their developments through an agreement rather than in the form of a patent. Because in the case of a patent, you have to reveal the essence of the technology.
  3. Mixed licenses (complex). In the world, licensing in its pure form is rarely used in any industry. To use this or that invention, you will have to make every effort to pass checks, etc. It is in such situations that the advantages of a mixed license appear. The essence of this agreement is that first the “know-how” prototype itself is completed, and only then, after checking its performance, a deal is concluded. From a legal point of view, this approach is ideal, since in case of failure, you can cancel the previously agreed upon situation, and also, under the contract (if it is stipulated in it), receive compensation for incorrectly invested funds. On the other hand, the disadvantage is that this procedure will take a long time and is costly on the financial side.

Types of agreements according to the scope of transferred rights

  1. Simple - also sometimes called non-exclusive. Here the licensor can either use his knowledge and developments himself or transfer them to licensees. Multiple transactions with the same agreement on the relevant market are allowed. That is, the transaction that was completed does not have the nature of attaching one license to a specific owner. The licensor retains the right to sell its development to anyone other than those whose names are indicated in the agreement. It follows that it is possible that the seller and buyer of technology may meet in the same market and face competition.
  2. Exclusive - this type of license vetoes the licensor’s use of its own technology, and in turn, the licensee has every right to enter the market after concluding an agreement. In this case, the risk of meeting between them on the same market is reduced to zero, but if one of the participants breaks the rules, the violator will have to compensate for the damage.
  3. Complete - the licensor’s refusal of his idea, all rights to own it are transferred to the licensee for the duration of the contract.
  4. Open - the license is issued in a special patent office. Any interested person has the right to it, and the patent fee is two times lower than the original value.
  5. Compulsory - transfer of rights to use the object to other interested users through the competent authorities.

Now let's talk directly about drugs in computer field. The essence is no different from the usual agreements described above. With the help of a license, the creator of the software (hereinafter referred to as the software) sets ultimatums, subject to which the user is given the right to use the application.

Basically, they can be divided into two large groups: free (free and open) and non-free (commercial, that is, paid). There is also a type that belongs to both the first and second groups, this is a shareware license, the trick is that you can use the product, but not the full range of its capabilities until you pay full version.

  • Free - Freeware, GPL, Adware, Postcardware, Donationware, Nagware/Begware.
  • Open - programs with Open source open source, which are subject to modification and change
  • Shareware - ShareWare, TrialWare, Demoware.
  • Commercial - the purpose of such is to benefit, to make a profit from the user and to issue him a product key with which he can work with the software.

Types of licensing

OEM (from English: Original Equipment Manufacturer - original manufacturer of the product). This type is often used in relation to the Windows operating system. Its peculiarity is that it is available only to collectors and sellers computer equipment. The price is an order of magnitude lower and it comes with the computer itself. That is, when purchasing a computer, the user can work with a specific program that is already registered. It can only be used on one computer.

Full Package Product is the so-called “boxed” version of the product. It is a complete set of software for further installation and use. It includes:

  • packaging with a COA certificate of authenticity attached;
  • EULA license agreement documentation;
  • installation disk BY;
  • 25-digit product registration key.

This version is suitable for all categories of users. Among all types of licensing, FPP is considered the most expensive, but the cost depends on the version you want to purchase. For example, a business will be much more expensive than a home or academic one. But the peculiarity is that the “boxed” version can be installed on different computers, but a certain number of times.

Volume Licensing is a very convenient way out of the situation when you have a headquarters of a hundred people, and everyone has a PC. When ordering one such version, a certain number of devices, which were specified in the application, receives a license. Everything is registered to a specific person, and he is also given keys for the purpose of activating products on computers.

Often, with such orders, companies try to make all sorts of discounts for customers and provide them with high-quality technical support. This The best decision at the moment for any company. There are two types of such licenses:

  • Company-wide (purchase of rights for all devices listed in the enterprise in installments, in other words, standardization of the enterprise).
  • Noncompany-wide (purchase for several groups of computers).

The difference between them is that the first type most often provides discounts and benefits. The advantages of this type of licensing:

  • General electronic license for the entire enterprise, which allows you to place new orders.
  • Reducing costs for purchasing original software.
  • Timely and high-quality technical support with the ability to call a specialist.
  • Free software updates, the ability to install Office products on other devices with the ability to transfer data and retain the product license.

An advantageous version that is suitable for large companies that from time to time need high-quality technical support and a non-standard solution to a particular situation.

Subscription - the user buys his product and pays for it, figuratively speaking, on credit. Subscription to this type of purchase requires monthly or annual payments. This type is convenient for companies that buy more than ten licenses. Advantages:

  • Ease of managing all licenses.
  • Ability to use all software updates immediately after their release.
  • Discount from 5% for registering more than 250 PCs, or for purchasing all three types.
  • 50% discount on the first payment if older versions of software are already installed on the devices.
  • Advantageous program for government agencies.

This version is for those who are not sure how long they will need this product, or those who will need this software for a short period of time.

EULA Agreement

EULA (End User License Agreement - license agreement "\u003e user license agreement) - when installing the software, a window appears in which you are asked to accept certain conditions in order to gain access to a particular program. This is a document that regulates the user's rights in license granted to it, which contains information such as the number possible settings software, the ability to transfer it to another computer, the presence of Microsoft technical support, whether this software needs to be activated.

Windows License Agreement Terms

As an example, we will consider the terms of the OEM version. The rights to use such versions are controlled by the EULA. It includes the following license agreement rules:

  • Only manufacturers or those who assembled the PC should open the box with the OEM version of products;
  • in its turn. the assembler does not have the right to use the product that he installs on the device; he sells it to third parties (with the exception of operating Windows system Server, it can be transferred without installation to other persons);
  • the buyer who purchased the computer will be required to receive technical support Software from the manufacturer;
  • the assembler transfers the complete license set to the user.

The license package includes:

  • Media (disk) for restoring data on the device (in Lately major computer manufacturers are moving away from this practice, but if they require a request from Microsoft, then specific version OEM will prepare physical distributions).
  • A certificate confirming the authenticity of the operating system. For stationary PCs, it is glued either to the monitor or to system unit, for laptops or portables - on bottom part case, but if the device has a removable cover, then the license icon is attached under it and information is provided that it is located there.
  • Documents and instructions for working with the software, which include the terms of the license agreement, which must be in printed and electronic form;

In case of unforeseen circumstances, in order to ensure that your device had the official version of the product, the manufacturer may require you to show the sticker mentioned above.

Windows 10 LAN features and updates

With the exit new version Many Windows users rushed to download and install it. Indeed, the updated interface, beautiful animations, multitasking, the performance of the new operating system - all this is at the highest level. The Windows 10 license agreement has also been updated. But in fact, there are also negative qualities of Windows 10 that will make you think twice before installing it as an OS. Below we will describe the advantages and disadvantages of the new drug.

Let's start with the advantages of official agreements:

  • The right to transfer a Windows 10 license to another computer. Indeed, a very tempting feature, because previously it was impossible to transfer your system to other machines. But those who bought theirs were out of luck. operating system(OEM version) together with the PC, in this case the transfer will not be possible. The same rules apply for 7 and 8.1.
  • The right to switch to more old version. If you buy, for example, a laptop with the OEM version pre-installed, then you are in for a pleasant surprise. If you don’t like the new OS or want to see the good old seven and work with it more conveniently, then thanks to this function you have the legal authority to downgrade to previous version, unless the ten-year support period has expired. That is, Windows 7 will be available for migration until 2020, and Windows 8 until 2023.
  • According to the terms of the new Windows license agreement, the user does not have the right to cancel the download of automatic Windows 10 updates; now this process will occur automatically. Windows program Update will check your computer from time to time for updates and install them without permission. On the one hand, this approach makes it easier to work on the computer, since you don’t need to look for any updates on the Internet and then struggle with installing them; on the other hand, this can lead to some malfunctions in the device. "By accepting these terms, you agree to receive automatic updates without additional notice" - says the user agreement.

Now let's look at the disadvantages:

  • Function of synchronizing user data with the Microsoft server. To be honest, it’s not a good idea to gain the trust of users around the world. It allows you to save your personal data, such as your browser history and passwords entered in it, names and passwords wireless points access you use. Of course, synchronization can be canceled, but from the very beginning of use it is in default mode.
  • What surprised many was that Cortana is allowed to collect different types of user data, such as:

User location coordinates;

Data about phone calls, at what time and how many there were;

Fragments of correspondence by mail and SMS messages;

Events scheduled on your calendar.

  • The encryption keys that you can use to encrypt all the data on your computer using the well-known BitLocker program, as the license says, will be stored in the One Drive cloud, which, in turn, is controlled by Microsoft. These actions on the part of the company defeat the purpose of encryption in Windows 10. We advise you to install a third-party data encryption program that you can trust.
  • And the most exciting thing is that now the corporation can manage your data. Quote from PM:

We will access, disclose and preserve personal data, including your content (such as the content of your emails, other private communications or files in private folders), when we have a good faith belief that doing so is necessary to protect our customers or enforce the terms governing the use of the services.

Personal correspondence, local files and other personal information can be disclosed not only at the request of the authorities, but simply if Microsoft feels that this is necessary for some kind of protection of their customers.

"The license agreement could not be found" - Windows error during installation.

Sometimes users who want to install a brand new OS are faced with one problem, which later turns out to be very easy to solve. “The program could not find the license agreement">license agreement" - this is approximately the wording of our trouble. Most often this problem happens for three reasons:

  1. Problems with the ISO file - such problems happen due to the fact that the user downloads the assembly from pirated resources, where they are collected by beginners and amateurs, not much different from you and me, and experimented on users. The solution to this problem will be to download the distribution kit from the official website and record it again on another medium.
  2. Incorrect recording of the distribution image - the problem arises due to a minor error when mounting it on solid state drive. This type of error can be corrected by making a new recording or by changing the program for burning discs.
  3. Malfunction or problems with flash or DVD media - the name reveals the very essence. There is a malfunction in the device itself from which they are installed. boot files. The logical solution would be to change the device, but it should be noted that such an action requires good gadgets purchased from a specialized store. Because when you buy a flash card somewhere on the street, you not only risk being left without money, but also introducing a harmful virus.

Summary

In conclusion, I would like to note that in modern world It is very important to respect the rights of those who try to make life easier for ordinary people. In the cyber domain, this can be done through rules, licenses, and conditions that are not that difficult to comply with. We hope that after reading this article, you have understood all aspects of licensing agreements, and you will not have any questions related to this topic.

While the most frivolous Microsoft fans are installing Windows 10 with puppyish delight, their wiser colleagues are carefully studying the text of the license agreement. Let us remember that the trial version of Windows 10 contained many conditions that were unacceptable to a sane person. Were these points retained in the final version?

Problem #1

Microsoft collects and stores the history of web pages visited by the user, passwords for sites, names of access points to which the user connected, and passwords for them. The problem is that the data is tied to a Microsoft account, the password for which can be hacked or stolen. In this case, the attacker will be able to find out literally everything about his victim. In addition, US law requires IT companies to disclose information about their clients at the request of the court and intelligence services. It turns out that in fact the user himself collects and sends a dossier on himself, which can be used against him.

Of course, data synchronization can (and should) be disabled. Microsoft decided to enable this option by default. Apparently, in the hope that most Windows 10 users are unlikely to become interested in the details of the implementation of this so-called synchronization.

Problem #2

The virtual assistant Cortana, which many have already called the virtual spy Cortana. According to the Windows 10 license agreement, Microsoft has the right to collect various types of user data to operate Cortana:

  • user coordinates;
  • fragments of mail correspondence and SMS;
  • data on calls made: who called whom, how often.
  • data about scheduled events from the user calendar;
  • data from the contact book;
  • and etc.

In addition, for the service to operate, information about the use of your device will be collected: what time the alarm is set, what music is on the device, what programs have been installed, what search queries have been made, etc. Of course, user voice samples will also be transferred to Microsoft servers for processing.

It should be noted that some functions will not traditionally work for Russian users, including Cortana.

Problem #3

Third party user tracking. It is already known that Windows 10 will be filled with advertising. This explains the “generosity” of Microsoft, which decided to distribute Windows 10 for free. In order to inventory all advertising consumers, they will be assigned a unique identification number (advertising ID). Advertisers will have access to this number. In other words, marketers will be able to track user behavior. Like all other "innovations" in Windows 10, user tracking by unique number was borrowed.

Don't forget to disable advertising ID sharing on all your Windows 10 devices!

Problem #4

The encryption key is also stored by Microsoft. This is surprising, but if you encrypted your data on the device using the standard BitLocker program, then not only you, but also Microsoft will have the key to access the data. The Windows 10 license states that the password will be copied to OneDrive servers controlled by Microsoft. As mentioned earlier, the company will be obliged to issue this key upon request of the authorized authorities, which deprives encryption in Windows 10 of any meaning.

Be sure to install a third-party encryption program that you can trust.

Problem #5

Microsoft may control your data. This is a simple amazing clause in the Windows 10 license:

We will access, disclose and preserve personal data, including your content (such as the content of your emails, other private communications or files in private folders), when we have a good faith belief that doing so is necessary to protect our customers or enforce the terms governing the use of the services.

Personal correspondence, local files and other personal information can be disclosed not only at the request of the authorities, but simply if Microsoft feels that this is necessary for some kind of protection of their customers.