Tech Ticker

Microsoft Corp. is taking every possible step to curb software piracy. Microsoft is testing a new feature on its Download Center Web site that can lock out pirated copies of Windows.

During the test period, users of Download Center can opt to have the Windows software installed on their PCs validated as genuine. If the operating system is a genuine copy, users will get access to all Microsoft downloads. If not, they will be shown information on software piracy before they can download the software they selected.

Microsoft is testing the Windows piracy check to find out how it can curtail software piracy by providing better service to users of legal, licensed copies of the operating system, said David Lazar, a director in Microsoft’s Windows Client group.