CS3 can no longer be activated?

[Peru]

This thread disturbs me:
https://forums.adobe.com/thread/1491813

Does that mean that at some point in time CS4, 5 and 6 won't be allowed to be reinstalled?

[_Paz_]

Wow. It looks exactly like that. I sure hope not. The last poster says Adobe may agree to allow them to re-install.

I've been considering buying a Win 7 backup license so I would, in future, be able to run my CS6 programs even if I have to buy a new computer, as Microsoft will no longer allow moving the OS from a dead computer to a new one.

If this is correct, Adobe may enforce discontinuance via time, not just inability to run on new operating systems. Cloud and perpetual fees or nothing? Again, I sure hope not.

[Peru]

I've been considering buying a Win 7 backup license so I would, in future, be able to run my CS6 programs even if I have to buy a new computer, as Microsoft will no longer allow moving the OS from a dead computer to a new one.

I was thinking about that for my CS5.5. Maybe not.

[John 'twosheds' McDonald]

Under EU rules it is perfectly legal to re-sell used software provided it has been fully uninstalled by the seller. IMHO there is something immoral about not allowing a legitimate purchaser of older software to obtain a key to activate it. I hope that Adobe's stance on this, as described in the thread, is subject to a legal challenge.

[Chris B]

I've been considering buying a Win 7 backup license so I would, in future, ... as Microsoft will no longer allow moving the OS from a dead computer to a new one.

I know that the policy is that OEM licences are not transferable but having recently (this year) moved an OEM version of Windows 7 from one machine to another (and went from 32 to 64 bit) it doesn't seem to be practically enforced. It simply required a phone call to Microsoft as instructed by the Windows installation. Note that the end of life of Windows 7 is January 14th 2020.

Of course Microsoft could turn off the activation servers in much the same way Adobe appears to have done for CS3 - but I think that would be a very unpopular move (I don't believe this has happened or is due to happen to XP as yet.)

[_Paz_]

Ah! About 5 and 1/2 more years for Win 7. Thanks, Chris! (And for the info that it was possible to move to another computer. Unfortunately for me, personally, I bought my laptop used and the OS was re-installed by the previous owner just prior to my purchase. I don't have authorization code numbers. I did get re-install info from Lenovo but as I recall, it didn't work. Without Bob's help, I never would have gotten this one working again. I'd like to have an original installation disk so I could be certain I can keep Win 7 for a new computer when the time comes.)

NewEgg is currently having a very narrow time frame, in terms of hours, special on Win 7. Just under $85.

http://promotions.newegg.com/NEemail/June-0-2014/Wkend-Express-21/index-landing.html?nm_mc=EMC-EXPRESS062114&cm_mmc=EMC-EXPRESS062114-_-EMC-062114-Index-_-Header-_-ClickHere&et_cid=8857&et_rid=1110800

I'm on the fence. I don't know if I ought to order this now or not. Win 9 may be a lot better than Win 8. As much as I've loved my laptop, I realize it isn't the best for video editing. I probably should assemble a desktop next time.

Anyone have an idea roughly what a new, Win 9 OS would be likely to cost? $300 - $400?

[Chris B]

A full version of Windows 8.1 only costs $105.69 on Amazon at the moment (which could be moved across machines etc.). If you pre-order windows 9 you can likely get a deal (I got a full installation Windows 7 on DVD for around $100 before it came out - much less than it cost immediately after launch.) Having said that - if you buy a new pc/laptop then the OEM will pay significantly less for it and that's your "cheapest" option.

Current estimates put Windows 9's release schedule at around a year away - with another update to Windows 8.1 around September.

[Peru]

NewEgg is currently having a very narrow time frame, in terms of hours, special on Win 7. Just under $85.

http://promotions.newegg.com/NEemail/June-0-2014/Wkend-Express-21/index-landing.html?nm_mc=EMC-EXPRESS062114&cm_mmc=EMC-EXPRESS062114-_-EMC-062114-Index-_-Header-_-ClickHere&et_cid=8857&et_rid=1110800

That's Home Premium, though, not Professional.