I am going to eventually use Linux (although need help with a good option for gaming and video library use), but I was curious how long I could use Windows unregistered for? What are the limitations of it not registered?
It won't let you customize your settings (change your wallpaper and lots of stuff). It limits the Windows updates you'll receive. It leaves the annoying "watermark" up. It nags you to activate. I think that's about it.
This basically just keeps companies from using unlicensed Windows for business. Also, Microsoft does go after businesses who are unlicensed. They don't give a fuck about private users cause that's not where they're making money.
They probably prefer consumers running pirated Windows over consumers running Linux. As long as most people are more familiar/comfortable with using Windows than Linux, the more likely companies are to not even look at alternatives.
This basically just keeps companies from using unlicensed Windows
You say this but my local boba tea place their touch screen order thingie has Windows' unlicensed watermark over it but I think even their customers are too Dutch to care (me included, I actually love them for it!)
I don't think it does now does it? For the longest time ms wants to make sure all machines are up to date to try and keep, "always getting viruses" moniker away. I think maybe xp did that?