Microsoft Donated Computer Operating System Program FAQ

If my donated computers already have a Windows operating system installed, am I still eligible to participate in the program?

Unfortunately, if the computers you received already have a Windows operating system installed, your organization is not eligible to participate. As long as you meet Microsoft's eligibility requirements, we encourage you learn about the Microsoft Software Donation Program, through which we are pleased to offer Windows XP Professional Upgrade Licenses. These licenses may also be downgraded if you would prefer to install an older version of the operating system.

My organization received a donation of new computers without operating systems already installed. Can we participate?

No. In order to be eligible to participate in the DCOS program, the donated computers must be used machines that have been refurbished, not "white boxes" (new computers without operating systems already installed).

If I request licenses through the Microsoft DCOS program, will I still be eligible to participate in the Microsoft Software Donation Program and the Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR) Program?

DCOS is an independent TechSoup Stock program, and your participation in it will in no way affect your eligibility to participate in these other programs or your limits in them, and vice-versa. As long as you meet the individual requirements of each program, you are encouraged to request products from any of them.

If I request products through the DCOS program, will I need to wait one full year to be eligible to request additional DCOS products or other Microsoft products?

DCOS product requests can be placed throughout the year as computers are donated, up to the limit of 20 licenses per fiscal year. Under the Microsoft Software Donation Program, organizations are only allowed one request per one-year period, but this request may be placed before, after, or at the same time as your DCOS request.

If I need more than 20 licenses for my organization, is there another option available?

If you need more than 20 licenses, we encourage you to learn about the Microsoft Authorized Refurbisher (MAR) Program, which offers an option for nonprofits receiving large quantities of donated computers for their own use.

Is it possible to upgrade to Windows XP from the Windows 2000 licenses I receive through the DCOS program?

Yes. In addition to the Windows XP Home Edition licenses you receive through DCOS, you might also want to request Windows XP Professional and Windows Vista Business upgrade licenses through the Microsoft Software Donation Program. Under the Microsoft Software Donation Program, only one request may be placed every two years. Please read the program rules for more information.

What will I receive in the mail?

You will receive an installation CD and the unique product ID required for activation.

Will the operating system media ship from TechSoup Stock or from Microsoft? If I have requested items through the Microsoft Software Donation Program, will everything arrive together?

Your DCOS items will ship from the TechSoup Stock warehouse. All other Microsoft licenses are obtained electronically, and all other media will be sent from Microsoft directly. Therefore, products requested through these two programs will arrive separately, and the turnaround time for fulfillment might vary slightly.