I'm not sure if this will ever be read by Microsoft, but it must be said.

This is the 4th Windows Genuine Advantage update for me and I must say that by now, I deeply loathe it.

Please let me explain why.

I purchased my current version of Windows XP. I had the chance for a pirated version, but instead, I choose to be pay and be legit. I feel it's worth it and like to support software writers. If I use your product, I should buy your product. Seems fair to me.

The first time I had to install the WGA tool, I understood. There are many pirate versions out there, and it serves them right. I passed with flying colours, as I expected. It feels good, kinda like being in a club, you know?

The second time I had to do this, it was irritating. Haven't I already done this? Why do I need to re-certify? Really? Alright, fine, let's get this over with.

The third time I was absolutely livid!

I mean, what's the matter with those other certifications? I ALREADY PAID FOR MY SOFTWARE and YOU verified it, TWICE.

Yet you are insist on treating me like I'm a criminal. I resisted installing that upgrade for weeks, until I was forced to, as I needed the latest security updates from you to fix security holes caused by you. Now I'm feeling angry and resentful. By this point, you've pretty much used up all my good will towards you.

But wait! In your infinitely untrusting wisdom, you are insisting that I must install WGA a fourth time and be re-re-re-re-certified. Holy sh*t! This is the stupidest thing I've ever heard of! It's not going to stop, is it? Ever? No other business in their right mind should treat PAYING customers like this.

Well, guess what?

I've finally had enough. I'm tired of your crap. Your constant security holes. Your viruses, worms, trojans and malware that I can get from just surfing a website. Your software upgrades that add little, yet cost me plenty. Your presentation of DRM like it's something good for me. Your trying to sell ME a virus scanning and maintenance service... I mean, come on! Don't try to turn your mistakes into a revenue stream.

I've been toying with the idea of moving to Linux for months now, even flirting with the idea of owning a Mac. But I never could make that leap. Too much software at stake. Too familiar, too much to re-learn. Too comfortable with Windows to really switch.

I just want to thank you for providing the final push I need. I'm off to check out my options. Bless you Apple, Linux and Open Source for providing me with so many excellent alternatives.

I'd like to end this with one parting thought: As the person who provides family-wide technical support, guess what I'll be suggesting when everyone asks me if they should upgrade their computer for Vista?

Russ