Also, do not forget Longhorn is requiring a minimum or 512MB of RAM, which I thankfully see going up to 600+ minimum required. It's about time we had an OS that took advantage of newer computer systems
If by "take advantage" you mean "pull a fast one" OK otherwise I take the view that I put a Gig of RAM in my boxes to run my applications, NOT Microsoft bloatware.

Potts007

I think that the Software Validation is no more than a glorified check for updates? like it will run once per session, rather than be a constant overhead (unless you have a memory leak?).

I am surprised about the memory requirement though...........I guess that longhorn (fata$$) will not be upon us for some time, as it will have to wait for the millions of lower spec machines to flush through the system...........hey, I know local government outfits that are still running Win95 and Win98 they can't even get to XP, and they are funded by local taxation, which involves local politicians...............

Is Bill Gates the new King Canute?

Just a few thoughts