There's two types of Windows operating systems: the ones that were purchased properly, and those that weren't, either at an extremely steep discount reely (that is what we call "stolen").

Typically, "Genuine" versions of Windows, as Microsoft calls them, are obtained over a couple of ways. Most often, it comes pre-installed on a new computer. The OEM, or original equipment manufacturer, has paid Microsoft for the copy of Windows on your computer and included its cost in what you taken care of your desktop, laptop or tablet.

Genuine vs. Non-Genuine

The other way most folks get Windows on a computer is to purchase a copy directly from Microsoft, either as packaged software (although that rarely happens anymore) or via a download. Then that copy is installed, either on the computer with no OS installed or over a previous form of Windows, e.g. an upgrade from Windows XP to Windows 7. Those are legitimate ways.

There's also illegitimate ways. These include purchasing a copy from a vendor in the pub for $2 (this happens a lot in certain Asian countries, for instance), burning a brand new copy from a current one, or downloading an illegal copy from a shady Web site. These copies of Windows are what Microsoft calls "Non-Genuine" copies.

It's Stealing, Plain and Simple

What's important to note here is that Microsoft gets nothing for this; the individual setting it up has basically stolen it. It's really no diverse from downloading a film from the streaming site that provides away, or walking into a convenience store, stuffing a Snickers bar inside your jacket, and walking out. It sounds harsh, yes, but that is exactly what it is. Microsoft and lots of other software companies have forfeit billions upon billions of dollars through the years out of this piracy.

For those who have gotten Windows in a less-than-honest way, Microsoft has some news for you personally and some advice. First, Microsoft has marked Non-Genuine copies, so if you accidentally got one, you are able to give it back. "When we can't verify that Windows is correctly installed, licensed, and never tampered with, we create a desktop watermark to inform the user," blogged Windows Chief Terry Myerson. He points out these illegitimate copies are at higher risk of malware and other negative effects, and aren't based on Microsoft.

No Free Upgrade for You

Another problem with one of these Non-Genuine copies would be that the upgrade to Windows 10, which is free for users of Windows 7 and Windows 8 for that newbie, won't affect the pirated copies. Windows 10 upgrades are available to these illegitimate users, but they aren't free.

Myers did hint, though, that even those users could get a deal on the Windows 10 upgrade: "In addition, together with some of our valued OEM partners, we are planning very attractive Windows 10 upgrade offers for his or her customers running one of their older devices inside a Non-Genuine state," he wrote. So Microsoft is extending an amiable hand and hopes you'll grasp it.

An Invitation to Be Hacked

Unpatched Windows is certainly not more than a wide open invitation towards the Internet's Criminals to hijack your computer and employ it for his or her scummy purposes. You will also be the who owns a piece of equipment that can be used as another link in the chain to spread viruses and cyber-worms around the Internet, harming the knowledge for everyone else. You do not actually want to do that, would you?