Are the keys you get from ebay legit?
Are the keys you get from ebay legit?
Many people are aware that Microsoft Windows license keys are being offered on eBay at low prices. Most of these keys receive positive feedback and testimonials, making them seem genuine and original. However, I find myself questioning their authenticity, wondering if they are simply cracked keys designed to bypass the initial installation requirements but not suitable for future updates. Has anyone tried using them before?
They function usually. Generally, they aren't official keys. They're usually grey-market VL keys that often become inactive. You can set up Windows without a key. Most versions support this, either with a built-in choice or a standard temporary key for installation. If Windows isn't activated, customization is turned off and a watermark appears. All applications and updates remain operational.
These keys resemble those found on pirated Windows OS versions.
Back in March or so I bought a pair of Win7 Ultimate keys for a fiver each. A month later (I was waiting for TPM modules for my rigs) I tried using them and both were revoked. The seller provided 2 new ones, and one of those was revoked last week. The other one still works ... for now.
I know a friend who bought an eBay key a while back. It seems like it might be more unpredictable whether it works or not. Overall, it probably makes sense to get an eBay key once a year or so before investing in Windows. That’s just my take.