All the security updates for bugs that are included in SP 2 can also be manually downloaded from the Microsoft.com. So all users with an illegal version of XP can still fix all the bugs and be secure. The just can't download the service pack and install it, they will have to download all the patches one by one.

SP 2 introduces new features such as the new firewall. Why would microsoft accept that people use these new features by people who have stolen their software?

You could see Windows XP as a car. The car has faults. Everybody, even if you have stolen the car, can get free parts from the garage to fix the faults and drive safely. But the manufacturer also made some free enchancements to the car, let's say free ABS (automatic braking system). People who want the free ABS just have to show proof of ownership and can get their car equipped with ABS for free. The car is safer. People who have stolen the car won't be able to get the ABS. Is that fair? Yes, I think so.

And if you say no, where do you draw the line? Should Microsoft remove pirate-copy checks from the Office service packs?



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