Microsoft - FAQs
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Frequently asked questions
The following information is provided to answer some frequently asked questions about Microsoft software usage in the Department.
General FAQs
I’ve just installed the software and it is asking me for a serial number. Where do I find this?
The serial number (or product key) is located on the orange sticker on the back of one of the media disc's sleeve. Volume License Keys can be found on supplier's website (you will need your login account and password)
Our school has recently purchased an Apple computer with a dual operating system. Do I need to purchase a Windows Operating System License to enable me to install and run other Windows based software products on this computer?
No, you do not need to buy a Windows Operating system licence for this computer. The Apple operating system license which is supplied with this computer system qualifies as a suitable Windows qualifying product. You can use the Windows operating system upgrade CD available from the supplier to install the Windows operating system for this purpose.
I need to install a Windows based software product (e.g. QuickVic) onto my Mac laptop, do I need to purchase a Windows operating system license first?
No, the Apple Macintosh operating system is a qualifying product, you will need to use the Windows operating system upgrade CD available from the supplier to install the operating system and in addition also install Virtual PC (Virtual PC is also included under the Department’s agreement with Microsoft) Virtual PC is available from the Large Account Reller website.
Does the agreement include File Server Operating Systems?
Fileserver operating system licenses (e.g. Windows 2003 Server) are included under the agreement. Server operating systems are part of the server pool collection. Schools need only to purchase the media and manuals if necessary. Schools do not need to purchase an operating system with new servers.
Does the agreement include desktop or notebook Operating Systems?
Full Operating System licences for desktop or notebook computers (e.g. Windows XP Pro or Windows Vista) are not included in the Microsoft Licence Agreement. The Department’s agreement with Microsoft allows upgrade to the latest operating system from any previous version of a Microsoft operating system. That is an upgrade to another 32-bit or 64-bit operating system (e.g. from Windows XP Home to Windows XP Pro or to Vista Enterprise) is covered by the agreement. Schools and Department business units are required to purchase a qualifying base operating system license with each new (desktop or notebook) computer system. The minimum operating system that can now be purchased is Windows XP Home or Windows Vista Home Basic.
Is the Windows Operating System licence transferable from an old computer to another?
No, licences for all operating systems are not transferable from one machine to another.
If a school upgrades a computer do they have to purchase a new operating system?
The operating system must remain with the device that retains the motherboard, chipsets and chassis that include the serial number of the device. The operating system maybe installed on a new/replacement hard drive as long as the operating system is first removed from the old hard drive
As a technician or Computer Co-ordinator can I re-image school computers under the agreement?
Yes, technicians and computer co-ordinators can re-image Microsoft products covered under the agreement onto Department or school owned computer systems.
Do I need to buy a CD for each computer?
Schools are NOT required to purchase a copy of the media (e.g. Office 2007) for EACH computer. Only one copy is required to load software onto ALL school owned computers.
Can students use Department licensed software at home?
No, students are NOT covered by the Department's licensing agreement, even if the school leases computers to the students. A student license must be purchased for students to legally run Microsoft software at home (discounted Microsoft software is available to student through the Student Select Agreement).
Is Virtual PC for Macintosh Computers available under the agreement?
Yes, Virtual PC is available under the Department's current agreement with Microsoft.
Can I downgrade to a previous version of Microsoft Software?
Yes schools can downgrade to a previous version of any Microsoft product, this includes downgrading of MS Office software, computer operating systems or server operating systems if they wish. Schools electing to do this need to be aware that Microsoft do not support products seven years after their release date.
What school packs are available and where do I get them from?
School pack media is available from the Department's appointed Microsoft Large Account Reseller. Microsoft software available as school packs can be viewed at their website.
Information for Teachers
I need to install a Windows based software product (e.g. QuickVic) onto my Mac laptop, do I need to purchase a Windows operating system license first?
No, the Apple Macintosh operating system is a qualifying product, you will need to use the Windows operating system upgrade CD available from the supplier to install the operating system and in addition also install Virtual PC (Virtual PC is also included under the Department’s agreement with Microsoft) Virtual PC is available from the Large Account Reller website..
What software can be installed on notebooks covered under the "Notebooks for Teachers & Principals Program"
The following software is pre-installed on the notebooks supplied under the Department’s Teachers & Principals Notebook Program
- Microsoft Office Enterprise 2007 Edition
- Upgraded Operating System
No other Microsoft software can be installed unless a license has been purchased.
Information for Students
Can students use Department licensed software at home?
No, students are NOT covered by the Department's licensing agreement, even if the school leases computers to the students. A student license must be purchased for students to legally run Microsoft software at home (discounted Microsoft software is available to student through the Student Select Agreement).