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MSDN Frequently Asked Questions

Product Licensing Volume License Registration Product Keys and Activation Renewals Upgrades DVD Subscriptions Support and Customer Service MSDN Subscriber Downloads General Questions Go to MSDN Academic Alliance FAQ

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Product Licensing

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• What is the general nature of the terms of the MSDN End User License Agreement?
  

  The MSDN End User License Agreement (EULA) allows each person with an MSDN license to use all of the software that is included in the subscription for development, test, and demonstration purposes only.
  MSDN subscriptions are single-user licensed; everyone who uses the products within an MSDN Subscription must have an MSDN Subscriptions license. In other words, one license must be purchased for each user.
  Customers do not have to purchase media for each licensed user. MSDN subscription media can be shared with all individuals who have an MSDN Subscriptions license of the same level or higher.
  Note: The MSDN Library is an exception; it is not a single-user license and can be freely shared within an organization. You need to purchase the MSDN Library, but the information on the Library is available for use by anyone in your organization.

• When a subscription expires, do the licenses terminate or are they still valid?
  

  MSDN Subscriptions have a perpetual license, so subscribers can still use the products received with their MSDN Subscription after their subscription has expired.

• There are multiple products in the subscription. Can I give some of them to another end user?
  

  Everyone who uses products within MSDN Subscriptions must have an MSDN Subscriptions license. The contents of MSDN Subscriptions cannot be shared with non-subscribers or subscribers with a lower subscription level.

• May I use MSDN Subscriptions software to install software for day-to-day (production) use?
  

  No, but with one exception. Software in your MSDN Subscription comes with a development, test, and demonstration license. Examples of prohibited use include:

  • You may not install Exchange Server from your MSDN Universal Subscription and use it to send and receive personal or business-related e-mail.
  • You may not install Windows NT Server and use it to host your own personal or business Web site.
  • One exception is that the MSDN Universal Subscription comes with one license to Desktop Applications (typically on blue discs) such as Microsoft Office Professional Enterprise Edition 2003 (which includes Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, InfoPath, OneNote and Publisher), Visio Standard 2003, and Project Standard 2003 for business use directly related to the design, development, test, and/or demonstration of software projects. For example, you can use Project to manage a development project, use Visio to diagram your application, etc.
  • In addition, one copy of Office Professional Enterprise Edition 2003 can be used for general business use, unrelated to development and testing. Again, only persons with an MSDN Universal Subscription license can use these Microsoft Office products in this manner.

   

• What do you mean by "production?" What are examples of test and development work?
  

  By "production" we mean any activity that is personal, for general business use, or not directly related to the testing and development of software applications.
  Examples of (prohibited) production use include:

  • Installing Windows 98 to play games for entertainment.
  • Installing Windows 2000 Server and Exchange Server to set up an e-mail system that you use to send personal and/or business-related e-mail.

  You may not use your MSDN Subscription as a substitute for purchasing a retail license for an operating system if you do more than develop and test on your computer.

   

  
  Examples of development and testing use include:

  • Testing to see if a program in development works equally well with various different operating systems.
  • Designing and writing a program to assist with internal order procurement and distribution.
• Can I use the operating systems in my MSDN subscription to install or upgrade my development PCs?
  

  MSDN-licensed operating systems (OS) can be used as the primary OS as long as the computer is used only for development and testing purposes, and as long as every individual using that computer for development or testing purposes has a separate MSDN license: MSDN is licensed on a per user model, unlike normal OS licensing which is based on a per device model.
  
  If a computer using an MSDN-licensed OS is used for any purpose other than development and testing (for example, a developer's primary computer which is also used for corporate email), then a production-use OS license for the computer is required.

• Can I use the Visual Studio product to create an executable file and distribute this file for sale?
  

  Yes. Applications, utilities, and executables you develop using Visual Studio, Access, or Office Developer can be distributed to customers royalty-free, pursuant to the terms of the corresponding End-User License Agreement (EULA). In addition, there are many redistributable components included with Visual Studio, which you are welcome to incorporate into your applications and distribute for free pursuant to the terms of the Visual Studio EULA.
  Please note there is a royalty for Microsoft server products that are distributed with applications. For more information see the Product Integration Program.

• Can I use Office, Project, and Visio for development and testing of applications?
  

  Yes. Office Professional Enterprise Edition 2003, Project Standard and Visio Standard can be used for business use directly related to the design, development, testing and demonstration phases of building applications. In addition, one copy of Office Professional Enterprise Edition 2003 can be used for general business use by each licensed MSDN Universal subscriber. Project Professional 2003, Project Server 2003 and Microsoft Office Project Server 2003 Client Access License are not currently available for business purposes under the MSDN licensing agreement.

• Do all users also need an MSDN license to test applications?
  

  MSDN licenses are required for testers who do progressive test, configuration testing, debugging and maintenance programming.
  MSDN licenses are not required for user acceptance testing or stress testing, provided that that the testers will not be doing any debugging, configuration, or maintenance.

• My organization has many different MSDN subscriptions, are we licensed to use the same software?
  

  Customers are licensed for the software in their subscription. For example, an MSDN Professional Subscriber has a license to all the products in the MSDN Professional subscription. An MSDN Professional Subscriber is not licensed for products in MSDN Universal subscription. To learn what products are in each MSDN level, see the Level and Feature Overview.

• May I make copies of my CDs for my own use?
  

  Yes, as long as your use falls within the scope of the MSDN Subscriptions End-User License Agreement (EULA). You can only use the software for development and testing purposes. ISO-9660 CD images are available from MSDN Subscriber Downloads and is the recommended method. DVD subscribers should read the DVD section of this FAQ.

• How many devices can I install the products on?
  

  In general, you can install MSDN software on any number of machines. However:

  • Only persons with MSDN Subscription licenses can use the software on any of the machines
  • Some products, such as Windows XP, require product activation, which may limit the number of machines on which you can install software. See the section on Product Activation for more information.
  • If you are using Office for business purposes, you may only install on one machine.
  • Many product keys are only effective for 10 activations. An additional product key may be requested by calling MSDN customer service at the numbers listed at MSDN Subscriber Downloads Support.
• I've had an MSDN Subscription for some time now and have many old discs that are duplicates or that I simply don't use. Can I give them away or sell them?
  

  No. You may only sell or transfer your MSDN Subscription as a whole, and you must transfer all materials received with the subscription to the new owner.

• Who do I call to report that a company is sharing MSDN software? I just left a company and want to report this to someone within Microsoft.
  

  Please report any violations of the MSDN Subscriptions Master EULA to piracy@microsoft.com or visit http://www.microsoft.com/piracy. If in doubt, call the anti-Piracy Hotline at 1- 800-RU-LEGIT.

• I have older products which no longer ship in MSDN. What licensing terms apply to products I received in the past?
  

  If you have been an MSDN Subscriber for many years, you probably have older products which no longer ship in MSDN. Older products follow the licensing terms (from the End User License Agreement) that governed your MSDN subscription at the time you received those products.

• I notice that occasionally Microsoft changes the end user license agreement for MSDN. What license terms apply to products that I had previously received?
  

  Occasionally we change the licensing terms for MSDN or for specific products. If the licensing terms change, the new terms apply to products you receive in your current subscription. A new MSDN end user license agreement does not apply to products which no longer ship in MSDN. You will receive a new End User License Agreement, if the terms change. For your convenience, you may want to keep copies of all the MSDN End User License Agreement(s) with your MSDN shipments.

• I am planning to buy an MSDN subscription. I am in the North America as of now. However, I may be moving out of the country. Can I transfer my subscription?
  

  At this time MSDN subscriptions purchased in the United States and Canada are not transferable to countries outside of the North American region. If you live outside of the U.S. and Canada, you cannot purchase MSDN from the U.S. or Canada. If you purchased and activated an MSDN subscription in the U.S. or Canada and are moving to a country outside of the North America, please cancel your subscription for which you will receive prorated refund, and purchase a new subscription in that country.

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Volume License Registration

 

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• What is the MSDN Volume License Registration site and who needs to register their licenses?
  

  The MSDN Volume License Registration site is for Open, Select, and Enterprise Agreement customers. Customers who register their licenses will receive access to MSDN Subscriber Downloads, technical support, an MSDN Subscriber ID. Customers who ordered their licenses through the Software Assurance program will also receive complimentary media, based on number of licensees ordered.
  All customers who register at the site will need to establish a unique Passport email address. The registration site will prompt all customers to enter their Passport email address. Customers who already have a Passport address may use their current address. Customers who do not have a Passport address will be prompted to create one.

• What information do I need to register licenses or media?
  

   

  • Select & Enterprise Agreement: Enrollment and Master Agreement number
  • Open: Authorization number and License number
  • Open License Value, Multi-Year Open, and Open Subscription License: Agreement Number, and the last name of the Notices Contact on the agreement.
• I am receiving errors when I try to register at the site. What can I do?
  

  There are a few reasons why you might be receiving errors. The following tips will help you troubleshoot the issue.

  • Confirm that your reseller has submitted your license order to Microsoft.
  • Confirm that you are using the correct numbers to access the site:
    • Select & Enterprise Agreement: Enrollment and Master Agreement number
    • Open: Authorization number and License number
    • Open License Value, Multi-Year Open, and Open Subscription License: Agreement Number, and the last name of the Notices Contact on the agreement.
• What are the Register Myself and Register Another User buttons?
  

  The Register Myself button is for individual registration. When a user chooses to Register Myself, the user will be prompted to create a Passport .NET ID. After registering, the user will have access to MSDN Subscriber Downloads and to technical support.
  The Register Another User button is for administrators. All users will be prompted for their own Passport .NET ID to access the site. However, administrators can register other users without creating a Passport .NET ID for each user. Within 4 days after registration, the new user will receive an e-mail containing an MSDN Subscriber ID number. Users need an MSDN Subscriber ID number to access MSDN Subscriber Downloads and technical support. The first time a new user visits MSDN Subscriber Downloads, the user will also be prompted to enter a Passport .NET ID. Users may also receive an MSDN Subscriber ID card in the mail.

• How soon after I order a license can I register it?
  

  This depends on how soon the Large Account Resellers (LARs) submit the specific MSDN license orders to Microsoft. Generally, Large Account Resellers (LARs) submit orders each week, but some LARs may have a different schedule. Check with your LAR to see if your order has been submitted to Microsoft Licensing Operations. Customers can normally register at the online Web site within 24 hours after the LAR has submitted their order to Microsoft.

• Can I register other (non-MSDN) Open licenses at this Web site?
  

  No. This registration site is available for MSDN Subscriptions volume license registration only. Please register other (non- MSDN) Open licenses at eOpen.

• How long do I have to register my MSDN License?
  

  Customers can register their MSDN volume license any time up until 30 days prior to the license agreement end date. MSDN media must be registered 90 days prior to the license agreement end date.

• Can I register multiple licenses under the same first name, last name, and Passport ID?
  

  No, the registration site requires that you register each license with a different first name, last name, and Passport ID. If you are serving as an administrator for many accounts, please ensure that each license is registered in the name of the person using each license.
  To ensure that each registrant will be able to access MSDN Subscriber Downloads, please register all licenses using different names. Otherwise, if the same name is used to register multiple licenses, only one account can be registered for MSDN Subscriber Downloads.

• How do MSDN Volume License Subscribers receive CD-ROM or DVD-ROM media?
  

  Customers who have ordered licenses through the Software Assurance program receive complimentary media by registering their licenses online. The complimentary media is based on the number of licenses ordered and the licensing program. Select & Enterprise Agreement customers receive 1 media kit for every 10 MSDN licenses ordered. Open customers receive 1 media kit for every 5 MSDN licenses ordered.
  The media is registered online, and is on a first come first served basis. If an organization has 8 media kits, anyone in the company can claim those 8 media kits by registering online. We recommend that customers who want media register first. If a customer would like to change who receives media, they can make this change online (look under Support Options on the MSDN Subscriptions Web site), or by calling their local MSDN Subscription Services Center.

• What happens if I choose not to receive some of the assigned media sets when registering, but later decide I need them?
  

  You can claim any remaining media sets through this site. After you sign in, select the "Reclaim Media" option from the selection screen. You can claim media up to 60 days before the end of your volume license agreement end date.

• Can I purchase additional media sets?
  

  Yes. For Select & Enterprise Agreement license customers, additional media sets may be purchased from Large Account Resellers. For Open license customers, additional media sets may be purchased through the MSDN Subscriptions Services Center for your country. See http://msdn.microsoft.com/subscriptions/phone/ for a list of contact telephone numbers.

• I purchased my MSDN subscription via a Microsoft Volume License Agreement. When will my subscription end?
  

  MSDN subscriptions purchased via volume license programs such as Select or Open will end when the volume license agreement expires.

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Product Keys and Activation

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• How do I get a product key?
  

  Subscribers can get retail product keys from MSDN Subscriber Downloads. MSDN Subscription product keys can be used to activate software on up to 10 PCs. These keys can be used for retail software versions. These keys cannot be used for volume license software versions. An additional product key may be requested by calling MSDN customer service at the numbers listed at MSDN Subscriber Downloads Support.
  
  Subscribers who purchase volume licenses through the Microsoft Volume Licensing programs (such as Microsoft Open, Select, Enterprise, Campus and School Agreements) have a unique volume license Key. In your MSDN Subscription shipments, you receive the volume license version of some products in addition to the retail version. You can get a retail product key from MSDN Subscriber Downloads. However, the retail product Keys from MSDN Subscriber Downloads cannot be used to install volume license versions. Contact your company's license administrator for more information on obtaining volume license keys. For more information on this deployment process, see Volume License Product Keys.

• Which Microsoft products will include Product Activation?
  

  Microsoft will be including Product Activation in several upcoming versions of its software, including Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Office XP,and Visio.

• Can I use the same product key for different products?
  

  No. Each product has a unique product key, and each version of the product has a unique product key. For example, Windows XP Home Edition has a different product key than Windows XP Professional Edition.
  Also, Office XP and Office products, such as Visio and Project, require a unique product key for each language version. For example, a different key is needed for Office XP Spanish and Office XP German. To obtain an additional key, contact your local MSDN Subscriptions Services Center.

• How do I know whether my software is the retail software version or the volume license software version?
  

  CDs and DVDs that include volume license versions of product say "Volume License Version" on the label. Microsoft Office XP Professional with FrontPage is an exception, and accepts both retail and volume license keys.

• What if I reinstall software frequently, do I need to activate the software each time?
  

  We understand that MSDN Subscribers have unique needs, so we have included special activation privileges for MSDN Subscribers.

  • MSDN Subscription product keys can be used to activate up to 10 PCs.
  • Although you must go through the activation process each time you reinstall on the same PC, your total number of activations will not be decremented.
  • For Windows XP, MSDN Subscribers have 60 days before the product needs to be activated. If you will be reinstalling the software in less than 60 days, you do not need to activate it.
  • for Office XP, MSDN Subscribers have 50 launches, before the product needs to be activated.
  • Software may be reinstalled on the same machine as many times as needed without reactivating it. However, if the hard disk is reformatted prior to reinstallation, reactivation may be required however the total number of activations will not be decremented.
• Is Microsoft Product Activation the same for the Windows operating system as it is for applications such as Office and Visio?
  

  Customers can activate the software during initial setup. Windows Welcome will guide the user through activation. Users who choose to skip activation during setup will be reminded periodically during the following 60 days to activate Windows (15 days for pre-release versions). Subscribers who choose to activate Windows after setup will be guided through the activation process.
  With applications such as Office and Visio, activation can be completed after initial setup. The user will be asked to activate when an application is launched. The user can choose to activate at that time or may choose to skip activation and do it later; users are provided 50 launches of the product before they are required to activate.
  MSDN Subscription product keys can be used to activate software on up to 10 machines. If you plan to reinstall before activation is required, it is recommended that you not activate.

• Where can I find my Volume License Product Keys?
  

   

  • Microsoft Partner Program: please visit the Microsoft Partner Program portal.
  • Microsoft Open: please visit eOpen.
  • Microsoft Select and Enterprise Agreement: please visit Microsoft Volume Licensing.
• What information do I need to install Microsoft Customer Relationship Management software?
  

  The following product information is necessary to install Microsoft Customer Relationship Management software if you are not using the provided sample data:

  • License Number - U34PMC59EZK7UJGQP0V5H
  • Professional Suite 5 Users license
  • Organization Name - MSDN Subscriber

  
  Note: If you are using the provided sample data, the following information is necessary for installation:

  • License Number - 8JUNYZUK3U66WXTRP7WE1
  • Professional Suite 5 Users license
  • Organization Name Adventure Works Cycle

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Renewals

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• Are MSDN Subscribers notified that their subscriptions are expiring? If so, what is the process?
  

  MSDN Subscribers are notified several times before the end of their subscription. Microsoft sends each subscriber direct mail and e-mail notices.

• If I want to renew, do I have to wait until my prior subscription is up? What is the window for buying a renewal?
  

  Subscribers can renew at any time during the course of their subscription. Subscribers can get discounted renewal pricing up until the expiration date of their subscription. After the expiration date, the customer will need to purchase a new subscription at the new subscription price.

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Upgrades

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• Who qualifies for renewal and upgrade pricing?
  

  The following retail customers qualify for renewal pricing:

  • Current MSDN Universal, Enterprise, Professional, and Operating Systems subscribers
  • Visual Studio and Visual Tools customers, version 5.0 and later
  • Microsoft Certified Partners
  • Microsoft Certified Professionals
  • Current members of a competitor's development program, such as the Oracle Technology Network, or IBM Developer Works

  
  Volume license customers have unique pricing through Microsoft's Open, Select, Enterprise Agreement, and Academic Licensing Programs.
  Active MSDN Library subscribers do not qualify for renewal or upgrade pricing.
• When can I upgrade my subscription to the next MSDN Subscriptions level?
  

  Subscribers can upgrade their current subscription to a new level of MSDN Subscriptions at any time during the course of their subscription, and receive a pro-rated refund for the remaining months on their original subscription. Subscribers can also receive discounted upgrade pricing up until the expiration date of their subscription. After the expiration date, the subscribers will need to purchase the new subscription at the new subscription price.
  The policy differs for volume license customers. Volume license customers can keep their current license and order a new MSDN Subscriptions license. Or, if within 90 days of purchase, volume license customers can return their original license, and order a new MSDN Subscriptions license.

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DVD Subscriptions

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• Is there a rebate offer for DVD subscribers?
  

  Unfortunately, the rebate offer expired on June 30, 2004 and is not currently offered. The rebate offer was for new and renewing North American retail DVD subscribers and did not apply to volume license customers, academic customers, complimentary customers, or MSDN Library customers.

• Can I install operating systems from DVD if there is no current operating system already?
  

  Yes. DVDs with Windows 2000 and Windows XP are bootable.

• Can I easily create CD-Rs from content delivered in my DVD subscription?
  

  Yes, the content on the DVDs is organized in such a way that it is easy to create your own CD-Rs from DVD. However, there are some things that must be paid attention to:

  • Keep the path identical. For example, if the path to Windows XP Professional on a DVD is \English\WinXP\Pro\, be sure to put all of the files on the CD-R in the same path.
  • If there are any files in the root of the DVD, be sure to put them in the root of your CD-R.
  • The CD-R's volume label must match the DVD's volume label.
  • CD-Rs can only be created and used in accordance with the MSDN Master End-User License Agreement (EULA).
  • CD-Rs are unsupported by Microsoft Technical Support.

  Bootable CD images of operating systems are available on MSDN DVDs and from MSDN Subscriber Downloads. It is highly recommended you use these rather than try to create your own installation CD-Rs from DVD.

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Support and Customer Service

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• Does the MSDN subscription come with support?
  

  All subscribers have access to managed newsgroup support.

  A new service, the Online Concierge, is also available to all MSDN Subscribers by logging on to MSDN Subscriber Downloads.

  MSDN subscribers outside North America, please visit MSDN Support Options.

  * Microsoft Certified Partners Subscribers receive access to MSDN public newsgroups and additional technical support provided through Microsoft for Partners. Above incidents and newsgroup support are not included.

• What is the MSDN Online Concierge trial?
  

  The Online Concierge is a one-to-one web-based chat service for MSDN Universal, Professional, Enterprise, and Operating System subscribers. Online Concierge can be used to address non-technical questions regarding navigation of the MSDN site, Knowledge Base (KB) article searches, and Subscriber Downloads. To chat with a Microsoft Online Assistant now, login to Subscriber Downloads and click on the MSDN Online Concierge link in the Announcements section.
  
  Online Concierge does not provide answers to MSDN Subscription queries. For assistance on questions specific to managing your MSDN Subscription, or to make changes to your MSDN Subscription via phone, online or email, visit our Subscriptions Support page.
  
  If you and your support advisor find that you need more technical assistance during the chat, you may be directed to a more appropriate support service such as the managed newsgroups or the phone-based support available to MSDN Subscribers. If you have used your free support incidents that came with your MSDN subscriptions, phone or online assisted support will be charged as follows:

  • $99 USD Professional Online Assisted Support, submit an online question and receive a response from a Microsoft Professional within 24 hours
  • $245 USD USD Professional Phone Assisted Support. For more details on both options: http://www.microsoft.com/support.
• When is the MSDN Online Concierge trial service available?
  

  The MSDN Online Concierge trial is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is not available on holidays.

• What are MSDN managed newsgroups?
  

  Managed newsgroups are for current MSDN Universal, Enterprise, Professional, or Operating System subscribers. These subscribers can post a message and receive a response from the community or a Microsoft Support Engineer within 2 business days. There are currently more than 220 newsgroups that are offered as a part of this support offering, including an assortment of .NET related technologies.

• How do I access the managed newsgroups?
  

  All managed newsgroups are available through either the Web-based newsreader or an NNTP newsreader, such as Outlook Express. A Web browser is all you need to access discussion groups. Although anyone can view or post to these groups, in order to ensure you a response within two business days, you must post using a no-spam alias registered on the MSDN Subscriber Downloads site. In order to register a no-spam alias, you must log into the MSDN Subscriber Downloads site and select the register "here" link located under the "What's Hot" menu line on the Subscriber Downloads home page.

• What can I ask in the newsgroups?
  

  You may ask any question relating to the development process. The supported newsgroups are for Developer products and .NET- related technologies. Common newsgroup postings include questions relating to code and application development, interoperability with other Microsoft products, setup, installation, and debugging questions.

  If you have questions about new technologies that may require longer engagement than what is offered to you via the newsgroups - you may want to consider Microsoft's Advisory Services. Advisory Services are available on an optional, per- hour-fee basis and typically do not exceed 40 hours. Advisory Services provide the opportunity to brainstorm with a Microsoft Software Development Specialist, to seek advice about alternate approaches to a development challenge, or to pose "what if" scenarios to help understand development choices.

• If I post my question in a language other than English, will I receive a response?
  

  No, the managed newsgroups for MSDN Subscribers are currently available in English only.

• When can I expect a response to my newsgroup posting?
  

  For valid MSDN subscribers, Microsoft guarantees a response from the community with in two business days. If for some reason you have not received a response within two business days, please contact the MSDN Managed Newsgroup Feedback alias for additional assistance.

• What if I receive a response that is not complete or accurate, or I disagree with the answer?
  

  If you receive a response that does not completely solve your problem, you can post a reply to the same thread, which allows us to track the progress of the thread and provide additional technical assistance. If you are still not satisfied with the current level of detail, Microsoft Support Professionals will continue to work with your issue or recommend an alternative support medium that is more appropriate to your specific needs.

• Will I receive a response on holidays and weekends?
  

  Questions posted on U.S. national holidays and weekends will receive a response on the next business day.

• I do not want to use my normal e-mail alias in the newsgroups. How can I change this alias so that the system recognizes me?
  

  The no-spam registration process located on the MSDN Subscriber Downloads site will allow you to create a no-spam alias that the Microsoft Engineers can use to identify MSDN subscribers, and allows you to post freely in the MSDN Managed newsgroups without exposing your personal or corporate e-mail account to spam abuse or viruses.

• Will Microsoft write source code for my project?
  

  Microsoft will assess customer project requirements and provide sample code to illustrate a particular technology, product feature, or development paradigm. Any source code provided by Microsoft is for illustrative purposes only and is not intended for production use.

• Is there a limit to the number of posts I can place?
  

  Currently, there is no limit to the number of postings that you can make to the newsgroups, as long as you are a current subscriber.

• What's the difference between newsgroup support and phone-based technical support incidents?
  

  With newsgroups, MSDN Subscribers enjoy unlimited, free support as opposed to the limited number of phone-based technical support incidents. Complex issues or server down situations are not recommended for the newsgroups. Issues of this nature are best handled working with a Microsoft Engineer using one of your phone-based incidents.

• What other support options are available to me?
  

  Free support options:

  • Search the Online Support Knowledgebase of over 250,000 solutions including FAQs, support downloads and service packs, support Webcasts, and Technical newsgroups.

   

  Microsoft Partner Support Options

  • Microsoft Gold Certified Partners for Support Services are a select group of companies that have met Microsoft's stringent partnership requirements and are dedicated to providing support alternatives to meet customer single- or multi- vendor environment, and enterprise support needs. Gold Certified Partners for Support Services provide both phone and online support services for Microsoft products beginning at US$99 per incident for application and desktop products. For more information, visit http://www.microsoft.com/support/partner/.
  • Microsoft Authorized Premier Support (MAPS) gives you access to multi-vendor IT (information technology) support. Designed by Microsoft and its Gold Certified Partners for Support Services, MAPS provides customers with the ability to work with a service provider that can support a broad range of needs, without sacrificing a direct link to Microsoft. Support services are provided jointly by Microsoft and their industry-leading Microsoft Gold Certified. Customers can easily find more information on MAPS and select a MAPS Partner by visiting http://www.microsoft.com/support/partner/maps/.

   

  Microsoft Paid Support Options

  • US$99 Professional Online Assisted Support with 24 hour response, available 24x7 for all products eligible for professional support.
  • US$245 Professional Phone Support, available 24x7 for most professional products (server, professional, and developer tools).
  • Microsoft Advisory Services is a remotely-delivered, consultative support option that adds the element of proactive support, providing a comprehensive result beyond standard break-fix product maintenance needs. Microsoft Advisory Services provides short-term advice and guidance for problems not covered by Problem Resolution Service as well as requests for consultative assistance for design, development and deployment issues. For more information about Advisory Services, call (800) 936-5200.
  • Microsoft Premier Support is designed to help large enterprise customers to successfully develop, deploy, and manage business systems build around a broad range of high-quality Microsoft solutions for the server and the desktop. Premier Support provides a comprehensive, annual service contract that covers all Microsoft products at use within the customer's enterprise. It provides a managed support relationship for customers who have made a significant investment in Microsoft technologies. Pricing varies by service level.

   

  Microsoft Consulting Services

  • Microsoft Consulting Services provides a wide range of fee-based technical consulting services in the areas of application development, strategy consulting and infrastructure services. Microsoft consultants focus on driving business value through technology innovation while transferring knowledge, satisfying customers, and collaborating with our partners.
• What is a no-spam alias?
  

  A no-spam alias is a fictitious e-mail address that allows you to post to a public forum without subjecting your corporate or personal e-mail address to spam or potential virus attacks.

• What is a nickname?
  

  Your NICKNAME will be the first part of your "no-spam" e-mail address. It should be very unique so that nobody else will choose it as their nickname.

• Microsoft only allows me to choose from a set of domains. Can I create my own domain?
  

  No. We have implemented this process to allow you to choose from these pre-populated domains and register a no-spam alias with out accidentally adding your own e-mail address.

• Where is the new registration site located?
  

  It is located at http://msdn.microsoft.com/subscriptions/.

  • Select the "What's Hot" Link.
  • Select the "Register here" link.
  • Create your no-spam alias.

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MSDN Subscriber Downloads

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• I get an error stating "There was an error launching the file transfer manager. Please try again later or contact your help provider" when trying to download.
  

  Please click here for details on a workaround.

• How can I find out what's new on MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

  Notifications of newly posted content can be accessed by subscribing to the MSDN Subscriber Downloads Content Notification RSS feed. This RSS feed will be updated whenever new content is published on the MSDN Subscriber Downloads site.

• What is an RSS feed, and do I use it?
  

  MSDN RSS feeds are based on the RSS 2.0 specification, and can be read freely using available products such as SharpReader, AmphetaDesk, and NewsGator. These are just a few of the wide variety of RSS clients available today, including one that you can build yourself based on this article in the MSDN Library. More information on RSS feeds can be found on the MSDN RSS Feeds page.

• How do I change the Microsoft Passport I use to sign in to MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

   

  • Go to the MSDN Subscriber Downloads Passport Management page and select the Change Passport button.
  • On the Microsoft Passport sign-in page, enter the new Passport that you would like to use to access MSDN Subscriber Downloads.
  • On the Subscription Information page, enter the information for the MSDN Subscription you would like to access with this Passport and select Continue.
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• How do I remove a Microsoft Passport ID from an MSDN Subscription?
  

  If you would like to remove the Passport currently associated with an MSDN Subscription, you can:

  • Go to the Subscriber Downloads Passport Management page and select the Remove Passport button.
  • On the Remove Passport page, enter the MSDN Subscription information for the Passport you would like to remove.
  • The Passport Removal Confirmation Message will be displayed.
• How do I download Microsoft products from MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

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• I cannot find a product in MSDN Subscriber Downloads.
  

  A product might be unavailable for several reasons:

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  • The product is publicly available.  Some tools, SDKs, DDKs, and service packs are publicly available from MSDN Downloads or the Microsoft Download Center. Such products are typically not published to MSDN Subscriber Downloads.
  • The product has not yet released.  Many pre-release (beta) versions and release candidates are posted to MSDN Subscriber Downloads. However, not all betas can be included.  Some betas require special registration or eligibility. For more information about open technical beta programs, please visit BetaPlace, sign in to Passport, then enter using the Guest ID BetaReq.
  • The product is not available due to past Java settlements.  Due to past Java settlements we have had to re-release or phase out the distribution of several product families.  This does not affect current installations, copies you may already have, or support timetables. More information is available from the Microsoft Java Transition page.  The major product families that have been removed from MSDN Subscriber Downloads are:  
    • BackOffice Server 2000
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    • Office 97
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    • Project 2000
    • SQL Server 7.0
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    • Windows 98 (Except SE)
• When I try to download a file, I receive an error saying File Transfer Manager failed to start.
  

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     C. In the "check for newer versions of stored pages" section choose automatically.
     D. Click OK
     E. Click OK
     

  Ensure that you are logged in as an Administrator, and try downloading again.

• What are the system requirements for using MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

  For optimal usage, MSDN recommends the following hardware and software requirements:

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  • 16 MB of RAM for Windows 95 or later (32 MB recommended), 24 MB for Windows NT Workstation 4.0 (32 MB recommended)
  • 5 MB additional hard disk space for program files (additional space required for each download item)
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  • Microsoft Internet Explorer 5.5 or later versions
     
• How do I locate products?
  

  To browse the content and download files available to you, navigate through the table of contents (TOC) on the left. In the TOC the products are placed in categories such as "Platforms," "Developer Tools," "Servers." You can expand the categories by clicking on the category name. Each product in the category will be listed.
  To download software, click on an item in the TOC. When you select it, a short description of the software will be displayed along with other pertinent information. Click on the download link to start the download. Note: Please verify that you have enough hard disk space before commencing the download process.
  Choosing the download link will open up a "Save As" dialog followed by the Microsoft File Transfer manager that shows the progress of current downloads. Note: the first time you download you may be presented with a dialog box to install File Transfer Manager. The Microsoft File Transfer Manager supports encrypted, unattended software downloads. In case of interruption or an aborted download, Microsoft File Transfer Manager will automatically re-attempt file transfer (up to the limit you set in the Microsoft File Transfer Manager Options) and resume the download process at the point of interruption.

• What are ISO image files and how do I use them?
  

  Many products are posted as ISO-9660 image files. An ISO-9660 image file is an exact representation of a CD, including the content and the logical format. The most common use of an image file is to write it to a blank CD-R resulting in an identical copy of the original CD including file name and volume label information. ISO image files may also be opened and their contents copied to a local folder, much like ZIP files. ISO files may also be virtually mounted and accessed as a CD-ROM device. These three methods of using ISO images are described below.

  Writing ISO files to CD-R
  Most CD-R writing software includes a feature to create a CD from an image file. Below are instructions for some popular applications:

  Roxio Easy CD Creator

  • From the File menu, choose Create CD from image file. Roxio Easy CD Creator assumes the file extension is .CIF so enter the full path and filename, or rename the .ISO file to .CIF.

  ISO Recorder

  ISO Recorder is a third-party add-on for Windows XP that adds image file writing capability:

  • Right-click an image file and choose Copy Image to CD. Note: the filename must end with .ISO.

  Nero Burning ROM

  • In Nero, from the File menu, choose Burn image. For more information please see the Nero Burning ROM support FAQs.

  After a CD-R has been written, you can use the CRC tool to verify that the CD-R was correctly written.

  1. The CRC305.exe tool can be downloaded from MSDN Subscriber Downloads in the Tools, SDKs, DDKs folder.
  2. From a command prompt, run CRC305 filename (where filename is the image file name.)
  3. Run CRC305 x: (where x is the drive letter of the CD-ROM drive containing the CD-R). The CRC values should match.

  Copying the contents of ISO files
  The contents of image files may be accessed directly using third-party tools. Using this method you can extract the files from an image file to a temporary folder on your hard drive, then run setup. The following tools offer such image file support:

  • IsoBuster
  • CDmage
  • Daemon Tools

  The products listed above have been known to work. Other products that can manipulate ISO files may work, but have not been tested.
  
  Mounting ISO files virtually
  The following tool for Windows XP allows image files to be mounted virtually as CD-ROM devices. This tool is provided here for your convenience, and is unsupported by Microsoft Product Support Services.

  • Virtual CD-ROM Control Panel for Windows XP
• Is there a limit to the number of times I can download?
  

  Yes, you may download any one file up to 10 times. If you need further assistance, please contact MSDN Subscriber Downloads Support.

• I can't log in to MSDN Subscriber Downloads. What could be wrong?
  

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     Select Internet Options...
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  If you are running IE 6.0 and are still unable to access MSDN Subscriber Downloads, try these steps:

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• I've tried to download a product multiple times. Each download has been unsuccessful, but my download count is incremented each time. I've reached my limit, yet I do not have a complete download.
  

  The download count should be incremented only upon successful download. Contact MSDN Customer Service, provide an explanation, and request that your limit be extended.

• When will software that is available from MSDN Subscriber Downloads be shipped to me?
  

  The Internet allows us to provide you with more immediate access to products than through the physical distribution channel. If a product has been posted to MSDN Subscriber Downloads, it will most likely be available in your next shipment. In order to provide you with the most recent and optimal packaging of products, discs are updated as much as possible prior to each shipment. Some products are made available exclusively from MSDN Subscriber Downloads.

• Why does the required disk space exceed the size of the file I am downloading?
  

  The current version of File Transfer Manager always reserves 10MB of disk space on a drive. This space may be needed by other applications or the operating system to function smoothly (e.g., for backup or other temporary files associated with an application, page files for virtual memory, etc.).

• Are there any eligibility restrictions to MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

  The requirements for eligibility to MSDN Subscriber Downloads are as follows:

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  • This Passport should not be shared and should be treated in such manner consistent with the licensing agreement.
• How does this site differ from the MSDN Online Library? Can I be a member of both?
  

  MSDN Subscriber Downloads is a benefit limited to MSDN Subscribers. The MSDN Online Library contains the latest information on Microsoft technologies and is free to the public at http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/. An MSDN Subscriber can participate in both sites.

• I have multiple MSDN subscriptions. Can I have multiple registrations for MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

  You are recognized by Microsoft as a single customer and therefore granted one user name and password. You will have online access corresponding to your highest level of subscription. For example, if you have both a Professional and a Universal subscription, you will be automatically granted access to Universal content.

• What information is needed to register?
  

  MSDN Subscriber Downloads requires the following information for validation:

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    If you are an MSDN subscriber, this is located on your subscription card. If you are an Microsoft Certified Partner, this is located in your Microsoft Certified Partner documentation.
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  Microsoft Certified Partners please Note: Use your Technical Contact profile information to complete registration.

• Can I use my current Passport to access MSDN Subscriber Downloads?
  

  Yes. If you've signed up for a Passport before, or if you have a Hotmail® or MSN.com e-mail address, you already have a Passport. When prompted to provide Passport information, just use the sign-in name and password you already use for those services. Note that this Passport will become permanently associated with your subscription so you may want to create a subscription-specific Passport.

• What are other subscribers saying about MSDN Subscriber Downloads? Is there a newsgroup?
  

  We have setup a new NNTP newsgroup as an open subscriber-helping-subscriber discussion forum for the MSDN Subscriber Downloads site. Please note that this is a public discussion newsgroup for all MSDN products. Please do not post any personal information about you or your subscription to this newsgroup.

  How to Connect
  
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  Newsgroup Support
  If you are having problems connecting to this newsgroup or you have general comments/concerns, please send an e-mail to MSDN via the Contact Us Web form.

• I think I found a bug. How do I report it?
  

  We welcome your bug reports! They help us make a better site and upon fixing them, will help other MSDN Subscriber Download users have a better experience with the site.

  To help us trouble-shoot your bugs, send us a message using the Contact Us Web form and please supply the following information:

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  • Your system's configuration (example: DELL OptiPlex 133, 64 MB RAM, 8 GB hard drive)
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  • Browser and version (example: Internet Explorer 4 Service Pack 1)
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  • If you can reproduce it and the steps it takes to do so

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General Questions

Show all answers

 

• Are products included in MSDN the full retail version?
  

  Products included in MSDN are the full, retail versions unless otherwise noted. Developer Editions are usually identical to the retail version, however some Developer Editions have limited functionality. Microsoft Application Center Server Developer Edition and Microsoft Commerce Serve Developer Edition are such examples: they are fully functional, however they limit the number of concurrent connections to two.

• Are all products shipped to me on disc?
  

  Only current products are included in MSDN shipments. Please use the MSDN Index's Shipment Contents tab to determine what is currently shipping in MSDN, and the Highlights page to know what is coming in future shipments.
  
  Many previous versions are available from MSDN Subscriber Downloads, however some products are no longer legally able to be distributed, including BackOffice Server 2000, MapPoint 2002, Office 97, Office 2000, Project 2000, SQL Server 7.0, Visio 2000, Visual Basic 5.0, and Windows 98.
  
  Some current products are available by request. These products include MapPoint 2004, MapPoint Europe 2004, all Microsoft Business Solutions products (Axapta, CRM, Great Plains, Business Network, Navision, Small Business Manager, and Solomon), Office Multilingual User Interface (MUI) Packs, Project 2003 MUI Packs, Visio 2003 MUI Packs, and Windows MUI Packs. Customers in North America can request a DVD from MSDN North American Subscription Services. Customers worldwide can contact MSDN customer service to request a DVD. These products are not available on CD, and due to circumstances beyond our control some products are unavailable to customers in some regions.

• Are webcasts available in my MSDN subscription?
  

  Yes. Webcasts are included on each month's MSDN Index CD, as well as on the MSDN Library DVD in the /MEDIA folder.

• Can I benchmark the Microsoft .NET Framework?
  

  Yes. As per the licensing agreement customers can setup and run their own benchmarks of the .NET framework for technical evaluation purposes. You may not disclose the results of any benchmark test of the .NET Framework to any external third party outside your organization without Microsoft's prior written approval. You can e-mail benchnet@microsoft.com for more specific details on obtaining this approval.

• How do I get my subscription started?
  

  If you purchased your subscription from a retailer, you need to activate your subscription to begin shipments. You can activate your subscription online, call your local MSDN Customer Service Center (1-800-759-5474 for North America), or send in the activation card included in the retail box.

• Where can I find my Subscriber ID?
  

  An MSDN paid subscriber will find their Subscriber ID on the MSDN Subscription Card, or via an email from MSDN. Subscriber ID cards are sent to you when you start your subscription. If you are unable to locate your Subscription ID, please contact customer service.

• How often are the updates sent out?
  

  MSDN Universal, Enterprise, Professional, and Operating Systems can expect to receive shipments most months throughout the year. MSDN Library ships quarterly.

• How long does it take to ship subscription media?
  

  Subscriptions purchased in North America and shipped within North America, should arrive within 2-3 weeks of activating the subscription. Updates ship periodically during the subscription term. Delivery times outside of North America can vary dependent on manufacturing and/or import requirements.

• What is your return policy?
  

  MDSN Subscription Services has a 30-day money back guarantee policy from the date of purchase.

• Some resellers have very low prices for MSDN Subscriptions - are these offers legitimate?
  

  The sheer volume and ever changing number of offers and resellers precludes Microsoft from validating every offer in the market. As is the basis for any general purchasing decision you may make, it is in your best interest to thoroughly investigate the seller. However, the following are some warning signs to look out for:
  
  

  • A price that is "too good to be true."
  • Suspicious methods of delivery and/or payment requirements. When you order an individual MSDN Subscription, you should receive an MSDN box with an activation card inside. You can use the information on the card to activate your subscription online, via phone, fax or mail.
  • Software marked with a phrase, such as "For distribution with a new PC only" or "Special CD - for licensed customers only," that does not accurately describe the transaction.
• What is the difference between the MSDN Academic Alliance and MSDN Academic Edition?
  

  MSDN Academic Alliance is an annual membership program designed specifically for academic labs, faculty, and students in the curriculum areas of Computer Science, Engineering, and Information Systems. The program has two primary goals:

  1. Make it easier and less expensive for schools to obtain Microsoft developer tools, platforms, and servers for instructional and research purposes.
  2. Build a community of instructors who can share curriculum and other learning resources to support the use of these technologies.

  For more information on MSDN Academic Alliance, visit http://www.msdnaa.net.

  The MSDN Academic Edition is for individuals working or studying at an accredited academic institution and want to receive their own individual subscription. Click the "Academic pricing" links in MSDN Subscriptions Pricing for more information.

• What is the difference between TechNet and MSDN Subscriptions?
  

  MSDN Subscriptions is for developers of Windows-based applications and anyone who uses Microsoft development tools. MSDN Subscriptions benefits currently include: Quarterly updates of the MSDN Library; Development Platform discs that deliver API -level SDKs, DDKs, and operating system software; Server discs; and Office Developer and Visual Studio discs.
  
  TechNet Subscriptions are for support professionals, system integrators and administrators, and MIS professionals. TechNet is a yearly subscription delivering monthly shipments of the most current evaluation, deployment and support information on all the Microsoft business products, including software drivers and patches. TechNet is one of the best investments for IT Professionals making high-level decisions on technology, deploying new systems and providing system support.

• I am an MSDN Subscriber outside of the U.S. Do I qualify for the MSDN Magazine promotion?
  

  No. Unfortunately, we are only able to offer this promotion to MSDN Universal Subscribers in the U.S. and Canada.

• I already have an MSDN Magazine subscription, and I noted you are now doing a promotion for the magazine in the U.S. Do I qualify?
  

  Yes. If you are an active MSDN Subscriber in the U.S. or Canada, you can register for the free promotion and an additional year will be added on to your existing MSDN Magazine subscription.

• I only have 3 months left on my MSDN Subscription. Do I qualify for the MSDN Magazine promotion?
  

  Yes. If you are an active MSDN Subscriber in the U.S. or Canada, you can register for this free promotion, regardless of how many months are remaining in your subscription.

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  No. The MSDN logo is a registered trademark.

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  MSDN Subscribers receive many generally available pre-release software versions. MSDN Subscriptions do not include alpha or early beta software under "NDA" (non-disclosure agreements). Many betas are made available to MSDN Subscribers exclusively via MSDN Subscriber Downloads.

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  No, MSDN Subscriptions include SDKs and DDKs for developing Windows applications and drivers. The IFS Kit is a specialized kit targeted at file systems developers, and is not part of the Windows DDK. Please visit http://www.microsoft.com/ddk/IFSkit/ for more information about the IFS Kit and how to get it.

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  SBS Standard Edition is included in MSDN Universal and Enterprise subscriptions (beginning January 2004). SBS Premium Edition includes a "premium technologies" CD that includes SQL Server 2000, ISA Server 2000, and their latest service packs. This premium technologies CD is not included as such in MSDN because these products are already included. The premium technologies CD is available from MSDN Subscriber Downloads.

• Do MSDN subscriptions include Windows XP Embedded?
  

  Windows XP Embedded Evaluation software is available for download. Windows XP Embedded is licensed only to OEMs through authorized Microsoft Embedded System Distributors.
  
  Licensing Windows XP Embedded for Distribution
  The licensing process for the non-evaluation version of Windows XP Embedded involves two steps: purchasing a license for Windows XP Embedded, and purchasing a runtime license for each device.
  
  Windows XP Embedded
  To create a customized Windows XP Embedded image, you must first purchase a license for Windows XP Embedded, which contains Windows Embedded Studio, the development tools necessary to build runtimes.
  
  Runtime Licenses
  A runtime operating system license is required in order to sell devices containing the customized Windows XP Embedded image.
  
  Visit the Windows Embedded site for a list of distributors and important licensing information.

• Do MSDN subscriptions include Windows CE .NET?
  

  No, however Windows CE .NET Evaluation software is available for download. Windows CE .NET is licensed to OEMs through authorized Microsoft Embedded System Distributors.
  
  Licensing Windows CE .NET for Distribution
  The licensing process for the non-evaluation version of Windows CE .NET involves two steps: purchasing a license for Windows CE .NET, and purchasing a runtime license for each device.
  
  Windows CE .NET
  To create a customized Windows CE .NET, you must first purchase a license for Windows CE .NET, which contains Platform Builder, the development tools necessary to build runtimes.
  
  Runtime Licenses
  A runtime operating system license is required in order to sell devices containing the customized Windows CE .NET image.
  
  See the Windows Embedded site for a list of distributors and important licensing information.

• Do MSDN subscriptions include Microsoft Windows Storage Server 2003?
  

  No. Windows Storage Server is not extensible, and is available pre-installed by Original Equipment Manufactures (OEMs) only.

• Do MSDN subscriptions include Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE)?
  

  No, however Windows PE is available via several channels. Windows PE is licensed to Volume license customers as a benefit of Microsoft's Software Assurance and Enterprise Agreement programs. A developer version can be licensed by qualified independent software and hardware vendors (ISVs and IHVs) that are investigating a software product that utilizes Windows PE as a preinstallation platform. To learn more about licensing and availability for ISVs and IHVs, please send email to winpe@microsoft.com that includes a contact name, company name, address, telephone number, and a brief description of the intended development plans using Windows PE. Please send only licensing questions, general inquiries cannot be fielded. Please visit http://www.microsoft.com/licensing/programs/sa/suppor t/winpe.asp for general information about Windows PE for volume license customers or send email to Askwinpe@microsoft.com for general inquiries.

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• Do MSDN subscriptions include tools to develop applications that target Windows Mobile-based PocketPC and Smartphone?
  

  Yes. The most common tools for developing for Windows Mobile-based devices are:

  • eMbedded Visual Tools 3.0 2002 Edition, for Pocket PC 2002 and Smartphone 2003.
  • eMbedded Visual C++ 4.0, for Pocket PC 2003 and Smartphone 2003 with the appropriate SDK installed.
  • Visual Studio .NET 2003, for managed code development in C# on Pocket PC 2000, Pocket PC 2002, Pocket PC 2003 (requires SDK) and Smartphone 2003 (requires SDK).

  
  The eMbedded Visual Tools for Windows Mobile devices are freely available from Developer Downloads. MSDN Universal, Enterprise, and Professional subscriptions include eMbedded Visual Tools 3.0 2002 Edition, eMbedded Visual C++ 4.0 and the SDKs for Pocket PC and Smartphone 2002 and Pocket PC and Smartphone 2003 (available from MSDN Subscriber Downloads). These tools include emulation environments for testing your application on a PC.
  
  For an introduction to developer tools for Windows Mobile-based Pocket PCs and Smartphones, please visit MSDN Online. General Windows Mobile development information can be found at www.microsoft.com/windowsmobile/developer.
• Do MSDN subscriptions include operating systems for Windows Mobile devices?
  

  No. Please see your device manufacturer or service provider for operating system installation and upgrade information.

• How do I build Web sites that target mobile devices such as PocketPC and Smartphone?
  

  The Mobile Internet Toolkit allows you to build Web applications with server-side technology to deliver markup to a wide variety of mobile devices. For more information, please visit MSDN Online.

• Do MSDN subscriptions include CALs for Terminal Services?
  

  Yes. To install client access licenses (CALs), please follow