An array of Microsoft competitors, government bodies, and special-interest groups attempted to forestall Windows XP's release, so you might wonder whether you should fear rather than adopt XP. The OS includes several technologies that scare people for a variety of reasons. The biggest bugaboo, Windows Product Activation (WPA), enforces Microsoft's licensing policies. Thus, individuals will no longer be able to use one Windows product key to install one copy of Windows on multiple PCs. For corporate users, WPA is a nonevent because volume-licensed copies of XP won't even include this technology. Understanding Microsoft's volume-licensing options and choosing one takes effort, but if your company isn't already using volume licensing, it should start now. In addition to the obvious benefit of not having to deal with WPA, volume licensing offers lower prices and an array of support options. Any company purchasing five or more XP licenses qualifies. WPA is also a nonevent for individuals who purchase a new PC with XP installed. These XP copies will be tied only to the BIOS, so users can change any hardware component without activating.