One less reason to buy Microsoft Vista
In their determination to put a stop to software piracy, the folks at Microsoft have designed Vista to inhibit upgrades to your computer. Windows XP already attaches itself to a particular set of hardware, but it does allow the owner to make a good many upgrades, like a new motherboard, hard drive or video card.
But Vista will allow only one major upgrade to your computer. After that, if you make a major change the machine won't boot any more unless you contact Microsoft and persuade them you're not a thief.
Apparently it won't be too difficult to satisfy Microsoft and get your software reactivated. Still, I'm thinking I'll just stick to XP. Better yet, I'll just go Linux. This Microsoft anti-piracy crapola is getting to be more trouble than it's worth.