03-04-2008
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RE: Update for Vista KB940510 Problem/Questions
Hi Susan,
I have had similar issues with my Dell and this update that performs the
'one time check' for OEM activation exploits. Apparently - and I guess we
have to take Microsoft's word on this because it's so amazing - there are
some naughty people out there who **gasp** use pirate copies of software!!
And in doing this they can sometimes open your computer up to nasties because
they are undermining the security system in Vista (does it have one??) or
some such.
OK, I'll take my tongue out of my cheek and get serious. The term 'OEM'
means 'Original Equipment Manufacturers' - companies like Dell - who are only
licensed to sell Vista with their hardware (it's one of the reasons you don't
get a CDROM with the O/S on it which think sucks big time).
However, this OEM sofware is leeking out on its own as 'cheap' copies of
Vista from disreputable suppliers so the update checks that you have a legit
version of Vista installed. If you do, it's supposed to die a graceful death
and disappear, leaving no trace. If you don't, it offers ways to buy a legit
version...then what happens I don't know as I have a legit copy, but I would
expect you'd be getting some stern warnings about "illegal Vista running" and
it might even give you a count before it won't allow you to do anything
useful with your computer.
Now, you should be able to use the System Restore tool to back out of the
update and get back to a previous working version of Vista. If you know
enough to try it it's pretty harmless to try. Otherwise ask someone who
knows...it's not actually hard to do. Then you can see whether it's the
update of Vista or (unlikely) some other update for a driver or some such.
Also, Windows Defender is a good little app that helps secure your system
against malicious software so it's worth letting it run.
Cheers, Rental
"SBTaylor" wrote:
> I installed this update for Win. Vista last night. When I turned on the
> computer this morning, it wouldn't start and did a Startup Repair. Did that
> update mess up the computer forever? I'm almost afraid to turn it off now!
> And I read where the update is a "one time check" for "Grace Timer" and "OEM
> activation exploits." Okay, I'm dumb so tell me what in the world that means
> in English please!!! This is a Dell computer that is only a few months old
> and had Windows Vista Home Edition preinstalled on it. Anyone who can help
> me, please do so! Thanks! Susan
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