This document summarizes privacy-relevant aspects of the installation and activation features (including product key handling, telemetry during setup, and online activation) for Windows 8.1 and Windows Server 2012 R2. It is written for administrators and users preparing installations and deployments.
The privacy behavior of an installation is heavily dictated by the specific tier of key used to initialize setup. Volume Licensing and GVLKs telemetry during setup
: A unique number assigned to your PC to distinguish it from others. telemetry during setup
This data is used solely to provide necessary updates. Microsoft does not use this information to identify or contact you. 3. SmartScreen Filter telemetry during setup
sls.update.microsoft.com (Note: blocking this stops automated product key validation). The Legal Framework: Product Keys and Lawful Disclosure