Applies to these editions of Windows Vista:

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Windows Starter registration: frequently asked questions

Here are answers to some common questions about Windows registration.

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Registration is the process of providing information to Microsoft (such as your e‑mail address) to sign up for product support, update information, tips and tools, and other news about Windows. It takes only a few minutes to complete. Here's how:

  1. Open Welcome Center by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Maintenance, and then clicking Welcome Center.

  2. In the search box, type register Windows online.

  3. Double-click Register Windows online, and follow the instructions on the screen.

Yes. Here's how:

  1. Open Welcome Center by clicking the Start button Picture of the Start button, clicking Control Panel, clicking System and Maintenance, and then clicking Welcome Center.

  2. In the search box, type register Windows online.

  3. Double-click Register Windows online, and follow the instructions on the screen.

No, registration is optional.

No. Activation is required to use Windows, but registration is not. Activation is the process of ensuring that your copy of Windows is used according to the Microsoft Software License Terms, whereas registration is the process of providing information (such as your e‑mail address) to sign up for product support, update information, and other product benefits.

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