#What is bcdedit -set TESTSIGNING OFF

1 messages · Page 1 of 1 (latest)

noble jasper
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It just turns off test mode, which means that you won't be able to use unsigned drivers and some more stuff afaik.

So no, it does not remove the watermark.

merry pawnBOT
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Can I use Windows without activating it?

Windows allows you to use it inactivated because it's required if you're activating with an embedded firmware key. Furthermore, it allows you to get your license after installation (say for example if you purchased it and need to access it online and don't have any other devices etc.).

It is not however a trial period, grace period, or a way to use Windows for free. We're required to uphold the licensing terms (which are also legally binding) and using Windows inactivated or with illegitimately obtained license keys is a direct violation of those terms.

placid timber
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But that doesn't explain why Microsoft doesn't just block logins or whatever like they used to with windows xp anymore

noble jasper
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because now you can get your license key digitally
and not over the phone or in your physical copy

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Or you can buy it, after installing

placid timber
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but then ppl could still easily use it for free

noble jasper
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But that would be illegal...
You just aren't allowed, and you're limited in functions

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I personally think they could lock it down more yeah..

placid timber
noble jasper
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anyways, as per section 5 of the license you agree to:
"You have been approved to use this product. Only if you are properly authorized and the product is properly enforced by a verifiable item key or an approved strategy."

Windows is not free, doesn't have a trial period or anything, they only allow you to use it shortly to obtain your license key and activate Windows

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And about the original question, that has already been answered.


Microsoft added test mode to Windows so that users can test programs without having to provide an authentication certificate.```

So disabling this, will also disable any drivers not signed by Microsoft.
placid timber
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right

fading vortex
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I don't think many people ended up buying a Windows copy when they got an activation prompt, they just used a crack, and in this case, unobtrusive prompts are objectively better from a security viewpoint than cracked Windows

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regarding the original question, the TESTSIGNING boot option also results in the watermark being shown, but that doesn't mean it will necessarily disappear when disabling the option, there are many scenarios that will make the watermark show up and that option is just one of them

full beacon
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Not to drive away the point, of course

noble jasper
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ah...
I did pull that quote off of the Microsoft wiki, but meh..

noble jasper
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Yeah, go ahead!

noble jasper
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I mean.. if you buy a general retail key using your Microsoft account, it does get linked yeah..

But if you have a device, which came with an OEM key, then you are not allowed to use it on any other device than the one it came with.
And you probably can't even.
So even if it said "Activated with a digital license linked to your MS account", then yeah..

noble jasper
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yup

mint mauve
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It is still present in windows 11, yes