I've been wondering, who among us has an authentic, store-bought (or computer-shipped) copy of Windows installed on their PC, and who has a pirated version of some sort?
I remember a while back trying to install IE7. Apparently I have to validate Windows to install it. I saged that and downloaded a pirated standalone IE7 to install on my pirated Windows XP Pro so I could test layouts and stuff in it.
But at the same time I feel: most computers ship with Windows XP, even if it is Home edition. Mine did. I had to pirate XP Pro for two reasons: to install IIS and to join Domains. (Actually, does Windows XP Pro have any useful features besides this?) In a way I feel I don't really owe MS that much because I already own their software, but in a crippled form.
I also like how even if you do have a valid copy of XP, after about 3 activations online, you can't activate your installation of the OS anymore. At that point you have to call MS and explain your situation. This is retarded, since quite a few people I know of format C:\ five to ten times a year for various reasons.
Anyways. Discuss.