Microsoft Virtualization FAQ: Sun
Q: Under NC State’s Microsoft’s Volume Licensing programs, am I able to run Windows in a virtual environment on my computer running a Sun operating system?
A: No. Sun is NOT a qualified operating system. A complete list of qualifying operating systems can be found on the Qualifying Operating Systems for the Microsoft Windows XP/Vista Upgrade page.
Q: Since Sun is NOT a qualified operating system, can I legally run Windows in a virtual environment?
A: Yes. You may only run one virtual instance of Windows per the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or the retail full packaged product (FPP) license.
Q: If I need to run more than one instance of Windows in a Sun environment, how can I do so?
A: You will need to be licensed for each virtual instance of Windows that you run on your Sun desktop. You will need to purchase your second license for Windows through either the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) or the retail full packaged product (FPP) channel.
Q: Can I remove an old Windows operating system from a computer and install it in a Sun environment which has the virtual machine software installed?
A: No, unless it is a FPP license. Under the Microsoft OEM and Volume License programs, Microsoft Windows desktop operating system licenses are tied to the machine on which they are first installed and may not be moved to another machine which has the virtual machine software installed.
Q: If I purchase a Windows Upgrade license from the bookstore under the Microsoft Student Select Agreement, does the same Microsoft Volume Licensing rules apply for these licenses?
A: Since Sun is not a qualifying operating system, you are not eligible to install the Student Select Windows license on a computer operating the Sun operating system.
Content last updated August 24, 2006, by wkcoker.