Gnu/Linux use as VM host for Microsoft OS Clients. Legally

onebuck · 04-05-2014, 10:03 AM

Hi,

With Microsoft dropping support for Win/Xp on 04-08-2014, I have noticed lately a load of Linux users/LQ members seem to have a misunderstanding when it comes to running Virtual Machines with other OS as client to their Linux host. One example is users that install Virtual Box(which is free to use) then install multiple MS Win/xp clients. One must remember that Microsoft does require one to follow the 'EULA' for their software.

Example query from; http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/w...9-3cf5a92f2fd9

Quote:

Is it possible under the EULA to have multiple virtual machines on one physical hard drive all using the same OS license or do I need a separate license for each VM? I have several software packages that are not compatible with my 64-bit Windows 7 OS. I would like to run each different software package under a different VMWare virtual machine (i.e. 5 different software packages and 5 different Windows XP virtual machines). These would all be installed on one notebook computer. Can I use the same Windows XP license for each VM, or would I need a separate XP license for each (in this case 5 different XP licenses)?

If you read on then;

Quote:

This is lifted directly from my EULA:

1. GRANT OF LICENSE.
Manufacturer grants you the following rights provided that
you comply with all terms and conditions of this EULA:

1.1 Installation and use. You may install, use, access,
display and run one copy of the SOFTWARE on
the COMPUTER. The SOFTWARE may not be used
by more than two (2) processors at any one time on the
COMPUTER, unless a higher number is
indicated on the COA.

So....

Does this mean that as long as you are not running two or more instances of XP SIMULTANEOUSLY, you're okay? Or does it mean that after you install it once, you've reached your limit?

I would imagine most people (including those who run Microsoft!) would argue the second interpretation is the correct one.

However...

If that is the case, anyone who clones their hard drive as a backup strategy would be violating the EULA!

If you as a user does have a Microsoft Windows/Xp site license/Volume(up to max number) then no issue(s) but if not then one license per install. Do I think that Microsoft License police will be knocking at one's door for multiple illegal Xp installs from one license copy? Maybe! If you are using the installs for monetary gains then that may induce someone to report a violation.

Just because you can get 'VirtualBox', 'VMware' or any virtual machine software installed on your Gnu/Linux host means that you do not have to follow legal License agreements to install a licensed copy in a client. One License, one install!

Links to hopefully enlighten;

Quote:

Licensing XP on a Virtual Machine - Microsoft Community
Licensing of O/S (Windows 7 & XP) for use as

Document to understand Microsoft position;

Quote:

Virtual machines offer maximum flexibility by ... How many Windows Server licenses do I need for my virtual machines? Can one Windows server license work for all ...Vitural Machine use of Windows OS

LQ does not encourage or allow the violating of laws. From LQ Rules;

Quote:

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Summary: As a Gnu/Linux user you still have to follow licensing agreements for software that is being used within your Gnu/Linux environment. If you have a Microsoft OS with multiple clients within your host then you too would have to follow license agreements. There will be Microsoft haters that will not follow license agreements but that too is still illegal. We here at LQ are here to help other members and lead by example. Ethically we must abide by the laws of man to allow order.

Quote:

“It takes a strong person to be ethical, for ethics are standards you may decide to follow even when others do not agree. Unless you are completely in control of your life and have a great deal of discipline, you cannot be ethical.” - Deng Ming-Doa

"Life's tough...It's even tougher if you're stupid." - John Wayne

schneidz · 04-05-2014, 11:12 AM

eula's are more contradictive than the bible. before i uninstalled my fathers windows-8 i skimmed the 25 page eula... there were mentions of (paraphrasing):

- 'this pc cannot be used as a server and you agree to purchase another license if that functionality is needed...' and the next few steps in the install was setting up file and printer sharing.

- 'the license only permits one user to use the laptop...' but the very next step was setting up user accounts.

onebuck · 04-05-2014, 12:32 PM

Hi,

One user at any one time! By adding users to the machine you are creating user accounts for each party. At no time, no more than one user will have control of the system.

onebuck · 04-07-2014, 06:01 PM

Hi,

If you as a Windows/Xp user desires to migrate to a Linux then to use Xp equivalent programs then look at: Linux Mint programs for Windows XP users

I believe 'Mint' will not be the only Gnu/Linux to use these programs as recommend replacements.

In the future the Windows/Xp will not be generally supported unless you as a user are willing to pay for it.

Hope this helps.