Hello, It as part of the Windows 8 OEM scheme Microsoft requires the OEM's to lock down the computer to only run windows 8 or other "authorized" OS'es via a signature system.[1] for "security" reasons. Put simply, Microsoft as part of their OEM system require all new computers shipping with windows 8 to use secure signing keys to prevent 'unauthorized software' from running on the computer. This will prevent all free software operating systems from running on the computers that come with OEM by default. So, we need YOU to stand up for Linux in Australia (and other countries)! Simply follow these easy steps. 1. Click this link: <a href="http://www.accc.gov.au/content/maintain/create/index.phtml?contentTypeItemId=9133&informationSpaceItemId=268347&inPop=1&returnUrl=.&type=Other">here</a> 2. Fill out your concerns. (Find an attached letter for reference) 3. Submit with Personal Information. 4. Tell your friends to do the same 5. (optional) Forward this to your favourite Linux Mailing List Regards, Luke Martinez <a href="mailto:me@luke.asia">me@luke.asia</a> Here is some more info for those who don't know: <a href="http://video.ch9.ms/build/2011/slides/HW-457T_van_der_Hoeven.pptx">http://video.ch9.ms/build/2011/slides/HW-457T_van_der_Hoeven.pptx</a> (slide 11) [1] <a href="http://mjg59.dreamwidth.org/5552.html">http://mjg59.dreamwidth.org/5552.html</a> [2] <a href="http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/open-sauce/49889-will-windows-8-succeed-in-locking-out-gnulinux">http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/open-sauce/49889-will-windows-8-succeed-in-locking-out-gnulinux</a> [3] Here is the reference letter: To ACCC I have recently learnt that any new computer or laptop that ships with the upcoming Windows 8 Operating System will not be able to run any other Operating System. Microsoft's new UEFI Secure Boot system prevents 'unauthorized software' from running on any new computer sold with Windows 8. Making a system that ships with only Micrsoft Windows not being able to boot a copy of Linux or any other operating system. I wish to use Linux on future computers, and this will not allow me to use Linux at all. Microsoft is engaging in seriously anti-competitive behaviour by forcing the lockout of all competitors. (See: <a href="http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/open-sauce/49889-will-windows-8-succeed-in-locking-out-gnulinux" target="_blank">http://www.itwire.com/opinion-and-analysis/open-sauce/49889-will-windows-8-succeed-in-locking-out-gnulinux</a> ) Not only will Microsoft kick out Linux off the computers, they will prevent 'upgrading' of windows versions: creating forced obsolescence. I am disgusted, is Microsoft legally allowed to do this? Microsoft has been slowly becoming more anti-competitive: computing used to be about choice, having the ability to choose the Operating System. Now Microsoft want to have complete control. Regards, ______ ________ <a href="mailto:you@example.org">you@example.org</a>