What is Windows OneCare?

What is Windows OneCare?

Windows OneCare is a new, comprehensive, integrated PC health service from Microsoft that will help you:

• Increase computer security through antivirus and firewall protection.
• Improve and maintain computer performance through automatic tune-ups.
• Protect important files and photos through backup and restore features.

It is built specifically for people who don't have the time or technical expertise necessary to secure and manage a computer on a daily basis. You can learn more about the product at http://www.beta.windowsonecare.com

What is a beta program?

In a beta program, a group of customers agree to try a new, unreleased version of a product. Through installing and using the Windows OneCare Beta, beta participants provide valuable feedback that we use to make this product easier to use and to better meet your PC health needs. The beta program plays a key role in our development process. Participation lets you share your ideas, and together, we will build a better Microsoft product!

If you are selected as a participant, you will need to:

• Follow the step-by-step instructions on how to install Windows OneCare. (Please note that this will require you to uninstall any existing antivirus products you are currently running.)
• Submit feedback and report problems to the Windows OneCare Beta Team in a timely fashion.
• Complete any surveys that are sent out during the beta period.

There is no charge to use the Windows OneCare Beta. We are looking for participants who are excited about the program and are willing to provide useful feedback throughout the entire beta period. Technical expertise is not a requirement to participate in the beta program.

The beta period is currently projected to start in July 2005 and run for several months. Please make your decision to participate carefully. Your feedback is crucial to the success of our product, and therefore, regular and consistent participation throughout the entire program will be needed.

How do I sign up?

If you would like to participate in the Windows OneCare Beta Program, please fill out our beta nomination survey. We will use this information to select program participants.

Note: You must follow these directions in order to access the nomination survey. Using a personal or previously assigned BetaID will not grant you access to this survey.

1. Go to the Microsoft Beta Web site: http://www.beta.microsoft.com
2. Sign in with your Microsoft® Passport Network credentials. (MSN or Hotmail e-mail addresses and passwords are automatic Passport Network credentials. If you do not have Passport Network e-mail account, you can sign up for one through the Microsoft Beta Web site above.)
3. When prompted to enter a Guest ID, type in OneCare (case sensitive).
4. Click the Windows OneCare Live icon at the bottom of the page.
5. On the next page, click the Survey link in the left pane, then select Windows OneCare Live Nominations.
6. Complete the beta nomination survey.

If you are selected as a participant, you will be sent a welcome e-mail with further instructions. That e-mail will contain your Beta ID and password along with information on how to install Windows OneCare.

Due to the high volume of responses, we will only be able to contact those customers who have been chosen for the program.

Thank you for taking the time to review this information. We greatly appreciate your consideration of the Windows OneCare Beta Program, and we hope you decide to make a difference in Microsoft products.

Regards,

Windows OneCare Beta Program Team