Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Our school has been donated free hardware, how do we acquire Microsoft software?
A: A Microsoft program called Fresh Start will help you to ensure that your donated computers are properly licenced. Navigate to this link for details on how to apply for Windows 2000 Operating System
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Q: Our school has disadvantaged status. Why is it not on the PILSA list?
A: The PILSA list is set up by Microsoft and the Department of Education. Micromail is unable to help you to qualify for this program.
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Q: Can I purchase licences for Office 2003 rather than Office 2007?
A: Licences are sold in the current version only, but they come with “downgrade” rights entitling you to use a previous version of the software: for example, you buy Office Standard 2007 licences (current version) if you wish to install & use Office Standard 2003.
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Q: Can I purchase a full Windows operating system under a licensing program?
A: No. A full Windows licence is not available under any volume licence program. If you wish to run a Microsoft Operating System you should purchase the lowest cost OEM Operating System available, and then upgrade as required through a licensing program. For best advice on buying operating systems, please give details of your requirements in the additional comments section of our school query form
Q: What is OEM software?
A: OEM software is software pre-installed on new computers or sold only with new machines or with key computer components such as motherboard or processor.
OEM licences are restricted to the computer they were purchased with, and may not be transferred to any other computer.-
Q: Pre-Installed OEM office software came on the PCs and the trial period is now ended. How do I acquire the software?
A: Because of the restrictions attached to OEM licences (described in the FAQ above), Micromail highly recommends that you purchase all Server and desktop products under an academic volume licensing program. Contact us for a quotation if you wish to continue to use the pre-installed trial software.
Q: Our school purchased laptops with pre-installed software as part of the T4 agreement in 2007. Is there a cost-effective way of continuing to use this software?
A: We can help you with T4 issues, but we only accept queries by email. Please fill in our school query form, indicating which products you wish to continue using. We will contact you as soon as possible with a quotation for the best licensing solution.