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    Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?

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    microsoft server licensing avimark veterinary compliance legal
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    • PhlipElderP
      PhlipElder @Obsolesce
      last edited by PhlipElder

      @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

      @CCWTech seems super clear to me, and always has been:

      f0e7da2b-6285-4bd6-b95a-ce93ece147a2-image.png

      Seems obvious to me:
      ec028a7b-dfd7-4321-902d-c9b7e282a5ab-image.png

      We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

      If the app is behaving similarly then there's nothing wrong with the setup being on Windows 10/11. Especially if the vendor indicates that it is appropriate to do so. I'm sure they wouldn't be running afoul of Microsoft's licensing.

      EDIT: It's important to define what the word "server" means in this context. It does not mean what we normally use that word for. Think lawyers not IT techs.

      EDIT2: Those underlines are very selective. Why was internal missed after personal? That word is also very important along with the words that come after the word "purposes:".

      EDIT3: There is a dearth of info on their site about anything product setup/install related. So, post something that shows requirements for their software to run please.

      EDIT4: Waaayyyy down in the search results: https://software.covetrus.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2021/03/AVImark-hardware-specifications.pdf

      cad20802-1ff2-4f89-8322-cc88064bc521-image.png

      Looks to be exactly like the QuickBooks setup when used in a tiny operation as indicated here. So, no brainer.

      The Server/Client software clearly states a server operating system is required. Again, no brainer.

      JaredBuschJ ObsolesceO 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
      • JaredBuschJ
        JaredBusch @PhlipElder
        last edited by

        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

        We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

        Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

        AVImark is connecting to a database server running on the host computer to my understanding. This is not file services, print services, IIS, or ICS.

        PhlipElderP ObsolesceO DashrenderD 3 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 1
        • PhlipElderP
          PhlipElder @JaredBusch
          last edited by PhlipElder

          @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

          @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

          We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

          Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

          AVImark is connecting to a database server running on the host computer to my understanding. This is not file services, print services, IIS, or ICS.

          I added to my post above.

          Their system specifications clarify exactly what their setup is and does. The small setup is peer to peer. No server OS required.

          RTFM

          CCWTechC 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
          • ObsolesceO
            Obsolesce @JaredBusch
            last edited by

            @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

            Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

            exactly this.

            PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
            • PhlipElderP
              PhlipElder @Obsolesce
              last edited by

              @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

              @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

              Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

              exactly this.

              Please reread the Device Restrictions section without all of the underlines especially the part where "internal" is mentioned and "the following purposes:" after that. It's very clear that one can use a Windows Desktop OS for shared internal services. That hasn't changed at all.

              PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
              • PhlipElderP
                PhlipElder @PhlipElder
                last edited by

                @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

                exactly this.

                Please reread the Device Restrictions section without all of the underlines especially the part where "internal" is mentioned and "the following purposes:" after that. It's very clear that one can use a Windows Desktop OS for shared internal services. That hasn't changed at all.

                By very definition: Peer-to-Peer.

                I've been doing this a very long time in the SMB/SME markets. Former SBS MVP and all that.

                Tell me a time when any IT tech in those markets hasn't encountered a peer-to-peer setup of desktop operating systems sharing who knows what in a rat's nest of patchwork.

                If peer-to-peer wasn't a thing, or illegit as being claimed here, then why did Microsoft have the clause I pointed to included? That is by very definition peer-to-peer.

                Again, definitions of words are important here. We can't apply IT Tech definitions to legal definitions. The whole 32-bit memory limitation thing is a good example of that. All y'all know that Windows 32-bit being held down to 4GB of addressable RAM was an arbitrary choice by Microsoft to force-sell their Advanced/Enterprise products that could address more RAM right?

                1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote -1
                • CCWTechC
                  CCWTech @PhlipElder
                  last edited by

                  @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                  @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                  @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                  We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

                  Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

                  AVImark is connecting to a database server running on the host computer to my understanding. This is not file services, print services, IIS, or ICS.

                  I added to my post above.

                  Their system specifications clarify exactly what their setup is and does. The small setup is peer to peer. No server OS required.

                  RTFM

                  No Manual is going to override MS Licensing.

                  What AVImark says doesn't matter so discussing it is silly. I could care less what their hardware specs say.

                  AVImark now requires Guardian to be running which takes it beyond file sharing. End of story.

                  I have talked to many Microsoft licensing specialists and they agree.

                  One clinic that believes that they can run Windows desktop with AVImark is the subject of a Microsoft Audit because of that. Yes, I have first-hand knowledge of this. AVImark is not going to pay for their legal defense. I promise you that.

                  1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
                  • ObsolesceO
                    Obsolesce @PhlipElder
                    last edited by Obsolesce

                    @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                    @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                    @CCWTech seems super clear to me, and always has been:

                    f0e7da2b-6285-4bd6-b95a-ce93ece147a2-image.png

                    Seems obvious to me:
                    ec028a7b-dfd7-4321-902d-c9b7e282a5ab-image.png

                    We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

                    If the app is behaving similarly then there's nothing wrong with the setup being on Windows 10/11. Especially if the vendor indicates that it is appropriate to do so. I'm sure they wouldn't be running afoul of Microsoft's licensing.

                    EDIT: It's important to define what the word "server" means in this context. It does not mean what we normally use that word for. Think lawyers not IT techs.

                    EDIT2: Those underlines are very selective. Why was internal missed after personal? That word is also very important along with the words that come after the word "purposes:".

                    EDIT3: There is a dearth of info on their site about anything product setup/install related. So, post something that shows requirements for their software to run please.

                    EDIT4: Waaayyyy down in the search results: https://software.covetrus.com/wp-content/uploads/dlm_uploads/2021/03/AVImark-hardware-specifications.pdf

                    cad20802-1ff2-4f89-8322-cc88064bc521-image.png

                    Looks to be exactly like the QuickBooks setup when used in a tiny operation as indicated here. So, no brainer.

                    The Server/Client software clearly states a server operating system is required. Again, no brainer.

                    First and foremost, it says the following:

                    You may allow up to 20 other devices to access the software installed on the licensed device solely to use the following software features for personal or internal purposes: file services, print services, Internet information services, and Internet connection sharing and telephony services on the licensed device.

                    The personal/internal bit matters not.

                    AVIMark is neither file services nor print services at the core. It's a database. It's server software. Just like you can't put SQL Server on it.

                    Secondly, it says:

                    You may allow any number of devices to access the software on the licensed device to synchronize data between devices.

                    This means, for example, services like Windows Update Delivery Optimization (the built-in P2P stuff), BranchCache, etc.
                    It does NOT mean "whatever the hell I want to do between devices".

                    It doesn't matter, at all, what AVImark says. What matters is that putting AVImark on Windows 10/11 results in the device being operated as a server (plain and simple):

                    (v) use the software as server software or to operate the device as a server, except as permitted under Section 2(d)(iii) below; use the software to offer commercial hosting services; make the software available for simultaneous use by more than one user over a network, except as permitted under Section 2(d)(vi) below; install the software on a server for remote access or use over a network; or install the software on a device for use only by remote users;

                    PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 2
                    • PhlipElderP
                      PhlipElder @Obsolesce
                      last edited by

                      @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                      The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                      We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                      TTFN

                      CCWTechC ObsolesceO 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
                      • CCWTechC
                        CCWTech @PhlipElder
                        last edited by

                        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                        We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                        I'd love to be a fly on the wall for that conversation!

                        1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                        • ObsolesceO
                          Obsolesce @PhlipElder
                          last edited by

                          @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                          @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                          The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                          We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                          TTFN

                          So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                          You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                          PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 2
                          • PhlipElderP
                            PhlipElder @Obsolesce
                            last edited by PhlipElder

                            @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                            @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                            @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                            The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                            We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                            TTFN

                            So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                            You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                            As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                            EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                            Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                            Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                            CCWTechC 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                            • CCWTechC
                              CCWTech @PhlipElder
                              last edited by

                              @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                              @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                              @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                              @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                              The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                              We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                              TTFN

                              So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                              You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                              As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                              EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                              Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                              Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                              It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                              And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                              PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                              • PhlipElderP
                                PhlipElder @CCWTech
                                last edited by

                                @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                                The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                                We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                                TTFN

                                So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                                You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                                As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                                EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                                Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                                Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                                It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                                And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                                BSA is in Canada.

                                As I've mentioned, peer to peer has been around for a very long time.

                                What I'm being told here is that every peer to peer setup was illegal and thus theft. Yet, in the audits we've participated in when a peer to peer was involved none were knocked for it.

                                It's pretty easy to sling the mud and armchair quarterback like this.

                                Show me some Microsoft based resources that clearly interpret things they way that is being stated here. Since the semantics and legalese seem to be the catch let's see a clear statement from Microsoft that a peer to peer setup where folks are sharing files and a printer or two is indeed illegal and thus "theft" as it's being called here.

                                Show me the money.

                                CCWTechC 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 0
                                • CCWTechC
                                  CCWTech @PhlipElder
                                  last edited by

                                  @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                  @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                  @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                  @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                  @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                  @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                                  The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                                  We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                                  TTFN

                                  So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                                  You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                                  As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                                  EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                                  Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                                  Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                                  It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                                  And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                                  BSA is in Canada.

                                  As I've mentioned, peer to peer has been around for a very long time.

                                  What I'm being told here is that every peer to peer setup was illegal and thus theft. Yet, in the audits we've participated in when a peer to peer was involved none were knocked for it.

                                  It's pretty easy to sling the mud and armchair quarterback like this.

                                  Show me some Microsoft based resources that clearly interpret things they way that is being stated here. Since the semantics and legalese seem to be the catch let's see a clear statement from Microsoft that a peer to peer setup where folks are sharing files and a printer or two is indeed illegal and thus "theft" as it's being called here.

                                  Show me the money.

                                  A high school student could understand this. You can not use it to host a server with certain exceptions. Because AVImark is not using just file share services, it doesn't fit the exceptions. That's it. So easy to understand.

                                  https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/UseTerms/Retail/Windows/11/UseTerms_Retail_Windows_11_English.htm

                                  PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
                                  • PhlipElderP
                                    PhlipElder @CCWTech
                                    last edited by

                                    @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                    @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                                    The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                                    We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                                    TTFN

                                    So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                                    You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                                    As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                                    EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                                    Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                                    Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                                    It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                                    And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                                    BSA is in Canada.

                                    As I've mentioned, peer to peer has been around for a very long time.

                                    What I'm being told here is that every peer to peer setup was illegal and thus theft. Yet, in the audits we've participated in when a peer to peer was involved none were knocked for it.

                                    It's pretty easy to sling the mud and armchair quarterback like this.

                                    Show me some Microsoft based resources that clearly interpret things they way that is being stated here. Since the semantics and legalese seem to be the catch let's see a clear statement from Microsoft that a peer to peer setup where folks are sharing files and a printer or two is indeed illegal and thus "theft" as it's being called here.

                                    Show me the money.

                                    A high school student could understand this. You can not use it to host a server with certain exceptions. Because AVImark is not using just file share services, it doesn't fit the exceptions. That's it. So easy to understand.

                                    https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/UseTerms/Retail/Windows/11/UseTerms_Retail_Windows_11_English.htm

                                    68c04ce9-cd17-4df0-96fb-f4192c972673-image.png

                                    It just boggles my mind that the plain English, or the Queen's English if you're a Canucklehead like me, is right freaking there.

                                    Seriously.

                                    ObsolesceO scottalanmillerS 2 Replies Last reply Reply Quote 0
                                    • ObsolesceO
                                      Obsolesce @PhlipElder
                                      last edited by

                                      @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                      @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                                      The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                                      We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                                      TTFN

                                      So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                                      You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                                      As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                                      EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                                      Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                                      Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                                      It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                                      And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                                      BSA is in Canada.

                                      As I've mentioned, peer to peer has been around for a very long time.

                                      What I'm being told here is that every peer to peer setup was illegal and thus theft. Yet, in the audits we've participated in when a peer to peer was involved none were knocked for it.

                                      It's pretty easy to sling the mud and armchair quarterback like this.

                                      Show me some Microsoft based resources that clearly interpret things they way that is being stated here. Since the semantics and legalese seem to be the catch let's see a clear statement from Microsoft that a peer to peer setup where folks are sharing files and a printer or two is indeed illegal and thus "theft" as it's being called here.

                                      Show me the money.

                                      A high school student could understand this. You can not use it to host a server with certain exceptions. Because AVImark is not using just file share services, it doesn't fit the exceptions. That's it. So easy to understand.

                                      https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/UseTerms/Retail/Windows/11/UseTerms_Retail_Windows_11_English.htm

                                      68c04ce9-cd17-4df0-96fb-f4192c972673-image.png

                                      It just boggles my mind that the plain English, or the Queen's English if you're a Canucklehead like me, is right freaking there.

                                      Seriously.

                                      Dude, let's break it down (starting to feel like I'm explaining things to a 2 year old)...

                                      The following services _ ONLY _: file services, print services, IIS

                                      AVImark is not those ^ (additionally, the limit is 20 devices)

                                      ...synchronize data between devices

                                      AVImark does not fall under synchronizing data between devicevs.

                                      FURTHER MORE:

                                      You may not use the software (Windows 10/11) on the device to operate the device as a server. (exceptions above, but we already covered them as a no-go)

                                      This is what installing AVImark on Windows 10/11 does to the device. It turns the operation of the device into a server (peer to peer or whatever bullshit you're spewing doesn't matter). It's a database. It's a server. It does not fall under the exceptions noted.

                                      EVEN FURTHER MORE:

                                      you may not install the software (Windows 10/11) on a device for use only by remote users

                                      AVImark is this. It's meant to be installed on a "server" from which all access is done remotely.

                                      scottalanmillerS 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 2
                                      • scottalanmillerS
                                        scottalanmiller @Obsolesce
                                        last edited by

                                        @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @CCWTech said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @Obsolesce said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                        @Obsolesce We're going to have to agree to disagree.

                                        The peer-to-peer setup has been around since Token Ring that I can think of off the top and abides by Microsoft's licensing.

                                        We've been through audits in peer-to-peer settings, as mentioned SMB was our bread and butter, with nary an issue with setups like the p2p mentioned in AVIMark for their tiny setup. We're usually the ones schooling the auditors anyway.

                                        TTFN

                                        So you're saying Microsoft licensing terms do not apply if installed on devices on peer to peer networks?

                                        You've got a lot of theft under your belt, then. Willful ignorance of terms. MVP of SBS means shit... as does (wrongfully) convincing auditors of theft.

                                        As mentioned, let's agree to disagree. TTFN

                                        EDIT: If you really think you have a case then report it to the BSA.

                                        Accusing someone of theft based on an subjective interpretation of terms and conditions is a pretty serious accusation.

                                        Suffice it to say, put up or shut up.

                                        It is theft. There is no other way to look at it. The fact that you have to interpret it subjectively and not objectively speaks volumes.

                                        And it's not the BSA that investigates. Microsoft works with a different company. One of the vet clinics that I am personally aware of that believes you can do this is being audited because they got caught.

                                        BSA is in Canada.

                                        As I've mentioned, peer to peer has been around for a very long time.

                                        What I'm being told here is that every peer to peer setup was illegal and thus theft. Yet, in the audits we've participated in when a peer to peer was involved none were knocked for it.

                                        It's pretty easy to sling the mud and armchair quarterback like this.

                                        Show me some Microsoft based resources that clearly interpret things they way that is being stated here. Since the semantics and legalese seem to be the catch let's see a clear statement from Microsoft that a peer to peer setup where folks are sharing files and a printer or two is indeed illegal and thus "theft" as it's being called here.

                                        Show me the money.

                                        A high school student could understand this. You can not use it to host a server with certain exceptions. Because AVImark is not using just file share services, it doesn't fit the exceptions. That's it. So easy to understand.

                                        https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/UseTerms/Retail/Windows/11/UseTerms_Retail_Windows_11_English.htm

                                        68c04ce9-cd17-4df0-96fb-f4192c972673-image.png

                                        It just boggles my mind that the plain English, or the Queen's English if you're a Canucklehead like me, is right freaking there.

                                        Seriously.

                                        Dude, let's break it down (starting to feel like I'm explaining things to a 2 year old)...

                                        The following services _ ONLY _: file services, print services, IIS

                                        AVImark is not those ^ (additionally, the limit is 20 devices)

                                        ...synchronize data between devices

                                        AVImark does not fall under synchronizing data between devicevs.

                                        FURTHER MORE:

                                        You may not use the software (Windows 10/11) on the device to operate the device as a server. (exceptions above, but we already covered them as a no-go)

                                        This is what installing AVImark on Windows 10/11 does to the device. It turns the operation of the device into a server (peer to peer or whatever bullshit you're spewing doesn't matter). It's a database. It's a server. It does not fall under the exceptions noted.

                                        EVEN FURTHER MORE:

                                        you may not install the software (Windows 10/11) on a device for use only by remote users

                                        AVImark is this. It's meant to be installed on a "server" from which all access is done remotely.

                                        You can reverse this as well. You are showing (correctly) that Avimark is not the exception. But there is an opposite situation. Avimark is the exact "rule". It is the EXACT case for which Windows Server licensing is required. It's not a fringe case, not a maybe, not a "kind of like", it is EXACTLY the type of workload for which server licensing is currently, and has always required. It's a perfect example of "as far from an exception as one can possibly be." It's a full client / server database backed server application in the traditional sense.

                                        It is, and I truly mean this, our most commonly used example here of "what does an application that requires server licensing look like." Because it's so simple, no IT person should be able to be confused when using this as the example because there's no grey area, nothing to misunderstand, nothing complex. By the book server application with nothing new or confusing, nothing that would ever give it any hope of an exception.

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                                        • scottalanmillerS
                                          scottalanmiller @PhlipElder
                                          last edited by scottalanmiller

                                          @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                          It just boggles my mind that the plain English, or the Queen's English if you're a Canucklehead like me, is right freaking there.

                                          Seriously.

                                          Exactly. You just listed why in zero possible way can you be confused. It's plain as day that there is nothing that applies to Avimark.

                                          Why are you arguing that it can be used and showing that it can't?

                                          PhlipElderP 1 Reply Last reply Reply Quote 1
                                          • DashrenderD
                                            Dashrender @JaredBusch
                                            last edited by Dashrender

                                            @JaredBusch said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                            @PhlipElder said in Can you run a Windows desktop OS as a server to run AVImark Veterinary Software?:

                                            We've gone through plenty of audits where QuickBooks has a company file on one PC while there are two or more other PCs accessing that company file. No issues there.

                                            Historically, QuickBooks has only used file sharing for this. The remote users are opening the QuickBooks data file over the network. This matches the restrictions last I knew.

                                            AVImark is connecting to a database server running on the host computer to my understanding. This is not file services, print services, IIS, or ICS.

                                            historically this was true - but at some point QB expanded this to using ports other than file sharing to get the job done
                                            0da17244-e464-4a11-9252-36b2bdea0e6c-image.png

                                            Once QB did that - QB no longer qualified under the fileshare exception.

                                            Here's a pretty easy way to test for this.

                                            If you install a firewall between the instance hosting the AviMark software and the client and block all but 139 and 445, as well as 80 and 443 - and AviMark stops working - then you're 99% sure that it's not a legal use of Windows non-server edition.
                                            of course this isn't 100% because software could attempt to use these ports as a bypass to the licensing..

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