Actsoftware.net Reviews

Based on looking at the website actsoftware.net, it appears to be an online retailer claiming to sell genuine software licenses for Microsoft Windows and Office products, as well as antivirus software like Kaspersky, at significantly discounted prices.

While the idea of saving money on essential software is certainly appealing, it’s crucial to approach such deeply discounted offerings with caution.

The digital marketplace, especially for software licenses, can be a minefield of questionable practices, and transparency is paramount.

For those seeking reliable and ethical software solutions, it’s always best to stick with official channels or authorized resellers to ensure you’re getting legitimate products and proper support, upholding integrity in all transactions.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

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IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Actsoftware.net Review & First Look

When you land on actsoftware.net, the first thing that jumps out is the promise of “100% genuine software licenses with lifetime validity” at incredibly low prices.

For example, Office 365 Professional Plus, which typically runs a subscription fee, is listed with a “lifetime” key for ₹699.00 around $8-9 USD, down from an original price of ₹4,990.00. Similarly, Windows 10 Pro is advertised for ₹349.00 about $4-5 USD compared to its original ₹3,299.00. This kind of deep discount raises immediate red flags for anyone familiar with standard retail pricing for these products.

• Pricing Discrepancy: The prices are drastically lower than official retail channels. For instance, a Windows 10 Pro license from Microsoft directly can cost upwards of $199 USD, and Microsoft Office subscriptions are typically annual or monthly.
• “Lifetime Validity” Claims: Microsoft’s Office 365 is a subscription service. While Office 2019/2021 are one-time purchases, the “lifetime validity” claim for something like Office 365 is highly suspicious, as it’s designed as a recurring service.
• User Reviews on Site: The website displays high ratings e.g., 4.90 out of 5 for its products. However, these are internal reviews on the site itself, which can be easily manipulated and aren’t independently verifiable. Relying solely on internal reviews is risky.

Initial Impressions of the Site

The site itself is relatively clean and straightforward, showcasing various Microsoft products like Office 365, Office 2021, Office 2019, Windows 10, and Windows 11, along with Kaspersky Total Security.

The navigation is simple, with clear “Add to cart” buttons and a prominent “Limited Time Offer” banner.

Why Such Deep Discounts Are Suspicious

Legitimate software licenses, especially from major developers like Microsoft, have a base cost. Fitnessfirst.de Reviews

When a vendor sells them for prices that are a fraction of the official retail price, it often points to several possibilities, none of which are ideal for the end-user:

1. Grey Market Keys: These might be licenses purchased in regions with lower official pricing, then resold globally. While sometimes functional, they often violate the software’s End User License Agreement EULA and can lead to activation issues or future invalidation.
2. Volume License Abuse: Sometimes, keys from volume licensing agreements intended for businesses or educational institutions are illegally resold to individuals. These keys can be deactivated if the original volume license agreement is audited or expires.
3. Developer/MSDN Keys: Keys intended for developers or for specific testing purposes might be sold. These are not meant for general consumer use and can also be deactivated.
4. Counterfeit or Illegitimate Keys: In the worst-case scenario, the keys might be entirely fake or generated, leading to an unusable product.

Purchasing from such sources can lead to significant headaches down the line, including non-functional software, security vulnerabilities, and a waste of money.

It’s akin to engaging in a transaction with an unclear origin, which goes against principles of transparency and ethical dealings.

Actsoftware.net Cons

Given the extremely low prices advertised on actsoftware.net, there are several significant downsides and risks associated with purchasing software licenses from such a platform.

These concerns primarily revolve around the legitimacy of the licenses, potential for future issues, and the ethical implications of supporting a grey market. Ekklo.com Reviews

• Risk of Invalid Licenses: The primary concern is that the software keys sold may not be legitimate. While they might activate initially, there’s a high probability they could be revoked by Microsoft or Kaspersky at any time without warning. This leaves the user with non-functional software and out of pocket.
  • Data Point: Industry reports from organizations like the Business Software Alliance BSA consistently highlight that a significant portion of software piracy involves counterfeit or illegally distributed keys, leading to billions in losses and posing security risks to users.
• No Official Support: When you purchase software directly from Microsoft or an authorized reseller, you receive official technical support. If you buy a key from actsoftware.net and it stops working, Microsoft will not provide support, and you’d be relying solely on the reseller’s “customer support,” which may be limited or non-existent for long-term issues.
• Security Vulnerabilities: Illegitimate software can sometimes be bundled with malware, viruses, or other security threats. While a key itself might not contain malware, the process of acquiring and activating it outside official channels can expose your system to risks.
  • Stat: According to a Microsoft study, purchasing and using pirated software increases the risk of malware infection by over 70%.
• Violation of End-User License Agreement EULA: Using a software key obtained through unauthorized channels often violates the EULA. This could lead to legal repercussions, although for individual users, the more common outcome is simply the software being deactivated.
• Lack of Updates and Features: Some illegitimate keys might prevent your software from receiving critical updates or accessing full features, compromising both functionality and security.
• Ethical Concerns: Supporting grey market or potentially illicit software distribution undermines the legitimate software industry and its developers. It encourages practices that can be seen as dishonest, conflicting with principles of fair dealing and respect for intellectual property.

The Problem with “Lifetime Validity” for Subscription Services

As mentioned, products like Office 365 are subscription-based.

The claim of “lifetime validity” for such a product is a major red flag.

Microsoft’s business model for Office 365 is built on recurring revenue.

Any “lifetime” key for Office 365 is almost certainly a fraudulent claim or a key that will eventually be revoked. This highlights a clear deceptive practice.

Minimal Information on the Website

The website provides very limited information about the company itself. Grassandair.com Reviews

There’s no “About Us” page detailing their history, physical address, or official partnerships.

This lack of transparency makes it difficult to verify their legitimacy or hold them accountable if issues arise.

A trustworthy vendor typically provides comprehensive contact details and company information.

Actsoftware.net Alternatives

When considering software purchases, especially for essential tools like Windows and Office, it’s always advisable to stick with legitimate, transparent, and ethical sources.

While the prices on actsoftware.net might seem tempting, the potential risks and ethical compromises far outweigh any perceived savings. Huprichlaw.com Reviews

Here are the best alternatives to ensure you get genuine software and support, aligning with principles of integrity and fair dealing:

• Directly from Microsoft: This is the most straightforward and secure option.
  • Microsoft Store Online: You can purchase Windows licenses, Office perpetual licenses e.g., Office Home & Business, and subscribe to Microsoft 365 directly from Microsoft’s official website. This guarantees authenticity, full support, and access to all updates.
  • Microsoft 365 Subscription: For ongoing access to the latest Office apps, cloud storage, and premium features, a Microsoft 365 subscription Personal, Family, Business is the official route. While it’s a recurring cost, it offers continuous updates and robust support.
• Authorized Retailers: Reputable electronics stores, office supply stores, and online retailers that are officially authorized to sell Microsoft products are excellent alternatives.
  • Examples in the US: Best Buy, Amazon ensure “Sold by Amazon” or “Sold by “, Newegg, Walmart, Target.
  • Benefits: These retailers source their software directly from Microsoft or official distributors, ensuring the licenses are genuine. They also provide customer service and have return policies.
• Reputable Online Software Stores: Some online-only stores specialize in software and are legitimate resellers. Before purchasing, always do your due diligence:
  • Check their credentials: Look for clear contact information, an “About Us” page, and verifiable customer reviews on independent platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or the Better Business Bureau BBB.
  • Verify their reseller status: While not always publicly displayed, some legitimate resellers might mention their partnerships.
• Educational or Business Discounts: If you are a student, educator, or work for a company, you might be eligible for significant discounts on Microsoft software.
  • Academic Programs: Many educational institutions offer Microsoft Office 365 for free or at a very low cost to their students and faculty.
  • Workplace Discount Program: Some employers offer employees discounts on Microsoft 365 subscriptions.
• Free and Open-Source Alternatives: For those who need basic office productivity tools but want to avoid costs and proprietary software, open-source alternatives are a fantastic, ethical choice.
  • LibreOffice: A powerful, free, and open-source office suite that includes word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and more. It’s compatible with Microsoft Office file formats.
  • Google Workspace Free Tier: Google Docs, Sheets, and Slides offer web-based productivity tools that are free for personal use and allow for collaborative work.
  • OnlyOffice: Another strong open-source option with good compatibility and a desktop version available for free.
  • Zotero: For academic research and citation management, a free and powerful alternative.

By opting for these alternatives, you not only protect yourself from potential fraud and security risks but also support the legitimate software industry and operate within ethical boundaries, which is always the preferred path.

Understanding Software Licensing Legitimacy

The world of software licensing can be complex, and understanding what makes a license legitimate is crucial, especially when evaluating sites like actsoftware.net that offer deeply discounted products.

Genuine software licensing ensures that you have the legal right to use the software, receive updates, and access support, all while respecting the intellectual property of the developers. Hackintosh.expert Reviews

What Constitutes a Legitimate Software License?

A legitimate software license is essentially permission granted by the software developer like Microsoft for an individual or organization to use their software.

This permission comes with terms and conditions outlined in the End User License Agreement EULA.

• Direct Purchase: Buying directly from the manufacturer’s website e.g., Microsoft.com is the most assured way to get a legitimate license.
• Authorized Resellers: Purchasing from retailers or online stores that have a formal agreement with the software manufacturer to distribute their products. These resellers obtain keys through official distribution channels.
• Volume Licensing: For businesses and large organizations, software is often purchased under volume licensing agreements. These are specific contracts that allow a certain number of installations across an organization.
• Retail Packaged Software: Traditional physical copies of software sold in retail stores that include a legitimate product key.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

When encountering offers that seem “too good to be true,” several indicators should raise suspicion:

1. Unusually Low Prices: If the price is significantly lower than the standard retail price from official sources, it’s a major red flag. Manufacturers set pricing, and authorized resellers typically operate within a narrow margin.
   • Example: Windows 10 Pro often retails for $100-$200 USD. A key selling for $5-$10 USD is almost certainly not legitimately sourced for individual retail use.
2. “Lifetime” Licenses for Subscription Software: As noted with Office 365, this is a clear indication of a scam. Subscription services are designed for recurring payments, not one-time “lifetime” purchases.
3. Lack of Transparency: Websites that don’t provide clear company information, physical addresses, or verifiable contact details should be viewed with extreme caution.
4. Generic Product Keys: If the seller provides a generic key or a key that can be used multiple times, it often indicates a volume license key being resold illicitly.
5. Activation Issues or Sudden Deactivations: If you purchase a key and it either fails to activate or works for a while and then suddenly deactivates, it’s a strong sign of an illegitimate license.
   • Microsoft Policy: Microsoft has systems in place to detect and deactivate illegally distributed keys.
6. “Grey Market” Explanations: Some sellers might claim to be selling “grey market” keys obtained legally from other regions. While technically “legal” in some sense, using these keys often violates the EULA and can lead to deactivation, as manufacturers enforce regional licensing.

The Impact of Illegitimate Software

Using illegitimate software can have several negative consequences beyond simply losing money:

• Legal Risks: While individual users are rarely sued, businesses can face significant legal penalties for using unlicensed software.
• Security Risks: Software from unauthorized sources might be tampered with or lead to less secure operating environments due to lack of genuine updates.
• Data Integrity: If your software is compromised, it could put your personal and sensitive data at risk.
• No Customer Support: You lose access to official technical support from the software vendor, leaving you to troubleshoot problems on your own or rely on unreliable third-party support.

For anyone looking to equip their devices with software, prioritizing legitimate sources is not just about avoiding immediate problems. Bombayhair.co.uk Reviews

It’s about making a responsible choice that protects your digital security and upholds ethical standards.

How to Check if Your Software License is Genuine

After purchasing software, especially from an online vendor, it’s essential to verify the legitimacy of your license.

This proactive step can save you from future headaches, potential security risks, and ensures you’re operating within ethical guidelines.

For Microsoft products like Windows and Office, there are specific methods you can use to confirm your license’s status.

For Windows Licenses:

You can check the activation status and type of your Windows license directly through the operating system. Feeli.io Reviews

1. Check Activation Status:

   • Windows 10/11: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Activation or Settings > System > Activation for Windows 11.
   • Here, you’ll see your activation status. It should say “Windows is activated with a digital license linked to your Microsoft account” or “Windows is activated with a digital license.”
   • If it says “Windows is activated using your organization’s activation service,” it might indicate a volume license key, which is generally not legitimate for individual retail purchase.

2. Use Command Prompt CMD for Detailed Information:

   • Open Command Prompt as an administrator. You can do this by typing cmd in the Windows search bar, right-clicking “Command Prompt,” and selecting “Run as administrator.”
   • Type the following command and press Enter: slmgr /dli
   • A Windows Script Host window will appear, providing details about your license, including:
     • Activation ID: A unique identifier for your license.
     • Application ID: Identifies the type of Windows.
     • Description: This is key. Look for terms like “Retail channel,” “OEM channel,” or “Volume_KMS_client” / “Volume_MAK_client.”
       • “Retail channel” or “OEM channel” usually indicates a legitimate, individual license.
       • “Volume_KMS_client” or “Volume_MAK_client” means it’s a volume license key. While these can activate Windows, they are not intended for individual resale and often become invalid if the original organization’s agreement changes or expires.
   • For even more detailed info, use slmgr /dlv. This command provides extended license information, including partial product key, activation expiration dates for volume keys, and more.

For Microsoft Office Licenses:

Verifying Office licenses depends on whether it’s a perpetual license e.g., Office 2019/2021 or a Microsoft 365 subscription.

1. For Microsoft 365 Subscription:

   • Log in to your Microsoft Account at account.microsoft.com/services.
   • Under “Services & subscriptions,” you should see your Microsoft 365 subscription listed with its expiration date. If it’s not there, or if the “lifetime” key from a third-party vendor was supposed to activate it, then it’s likely not a genuine subscription.
   • In an Office application like Word, go to File > Account. It will show your subscription details and activation status.

2. For Perpetual Office Licenses e.g., Office 2019, 2021: Ugg.co.uk Reviews

   • Open any Office application e.g., Word, Excel.
   • Go to File > Account.
   • Under “Product Information,” you should see “Product Activated.” It will also list the version e.g., “Microsoft Office Professional Plus 2021”.
   • If it says “Product Activated,” but you still have doubts, the main indicator for a perpetual license obtained from a questionable source is typically that it won’t receive future updates or support, or it might eventually be flagged and deactivated by Microsoft. Genuine perpetual licenses will continue to receive security updates for their supported lifecycle.

General Tips for Verification:

• Official Microsoft Activation: Legitimate keys typically activate seamlessly with Microsoft’s official activation servers. If you encounter errors, require phone activation, or are given complex workarounds, be suspicious.
• Purchase Documentation: Always retain your purchase receipt and any key provided. Legitimate retailers provide proper invoices.
• Contact Microsoft Support Cautiously: While you can contact Microsoft support to inquire about a key, they might not always provide direct confirmation for keys purchased from third parties to avoid sanctioning unauthorized sales. However, they can often confirm if a key is recognized in their system as part of a legitimate channel.
• Security Software Scans: Ensure your system has robust, up-to-date antivirus software. Illegitimate software sources can be vectors for malware.

By taking these steps, you empower yourself to determine the authenticity of your software licenses, ensuring that you’re using genuine products that offer security, functionality, and ethical compliance.

How to Deal with Illegitimate Software and Why You Should

Discovering that you’ve purchased and installed illegitimate software can be disheartening.

However, taking immediate and decisive action to rectify the situation is crucial for your system’s security, data integrity, and to ensure you are operating ethically.

Continuing to use illegitimate software carries significant risks that far outweigh any initial “savings.”

Why You Should Act Immediately

1. Security Vulnerabilities: Illegitimate software often lacks proper updates, making your system vulnerable to known exploits. Even worse, some keys might be part of tampered installations that contain malware, spyware, or viruses.
   • Data Point: A study by IDC and the National University of Singapore found that 83% of pirated software came with malware.
2. Data Loss/Corruption: Compromised software can lead to system instability, crashes, and potentially corrupt or delete your valuable data.
3. Legal Implications: While individual users typically face deactivation rather than lawsuits, using unlicensed software, especially in a business context, can lead to severe legal penalties.
4. Loss of Functionality: Microsoft frequently deactivates illegitimate keys. This means your software could stop working at any moment, leaving you unable to perform essential tasks.
5. Ethical Responsibility: Supporting vendors of illegitimate software perpetuates a harmful ecosystem that undermines legitimate developers and artists. As individuals striving for ethical conduct, it’s important to avoid such practices.

Steps to Take If You Have Illegitimate Software

If you suspect or confirm your software license is not genuine, here’s a structured approach to resolve the issue: Doto.com Reviews

1. Backup Your Data: Before making any significant changes to your system, immediately back up all your important files to an external drive or cloud storage. This is a critical first step to prevent data loss.
2. Disconnect from the Internet Optional but Recommended: For critical systems, disconnecting your device from the internet while you assess and clean up can prevent further potential malicious activity.
3. Perform a Thorough Malware Scan:
   • Run a full, deep scan with a reputable antivirus program e.g., Windows Defender, Kaspersky, Norton, Bitdefender.
   • Consider a second opinion scan with a tool like Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.
4. Uninstall the Illegitimate Software:
   • For Windows: Go to Settings > Apps > Apps & features, find the problematic software e.g., “Microsoft Office Professional Plus”, and uninstall it.
   • For persistent issues, you might need to use a specialized uninstaller tool or follow Microsoft’s manual uninstallation guides for Office, as standard uninstallation might leave residual files.
   • For Windows Operating System itself: If your Windows license is deemed illegitimate e.g., a volume license key, the safest path is to purchase a genuine Windows license directly from Microsoft or an authorized retailer. You can then use the genuine key to activate your existing installation. In some severe cases, a clean reinstallation of Windows might be recommended after backing up data, ensuring no lingering issues from the compromised installation.
5. Purchase Genuine Software: This is the most important step. Invest in a legitimate license from an authorized source. Refer to the “Actsoftware.net Alternatives” section for reliable options.
   • Prioritize Official Channels: Directly from Microsoft’s website or highly reputable authorized retailers.
   • Consider Alternatives: If cost is a barrier, explore free and open-source alternatives like LibreOffice or Google Workspace, which are perfectly legitimate and capable tools.
6. Report the Seller Optional but Recommended:
   • If you paid money for an illegitimate key, you might want to report the vendor to consumer protection agencies in your region or to organizations like the Business Software Alliance BSA. While it may not directly get your money back, it helps prevent others from falling victim.
   • You can also leave reviews on independent platforms to warn other potential buyers.
7. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep an eye on your bank statements and credit card activity for any unusual transactions, especially if you provided payment details to the illegitimate vendor.

Taking these steps ensures you cleanse your system of potential risks and transition to a fully legitimate and supported software environment.

This not only safeguards your digital life but also aligns with principles of honesty and integrity in your dealings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is actsoftware.net?

Actsoftware.net is an online store that claims to sell deeply discounted software licenses, primarily for Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office suites, and Kaspersky antivirus products, often with “lifetime validity” claims.

Are the software licenses on actsoftware.net genuine?

Based on the extremely low prices advertised, it is highly unlikely that the software licenses on actsoftware.net are genuinely sourced retail licenses from Microsoft or Kaspersky.

They are most likely grey market, volume license, or otherwise unauthorized keys. Ascend-funded.com Reviews

Why are the prices on actsoftware.net so low?

The prices are exceptionally low, often a fraction of the official retail price.

This is a common characteristic of websites selling illegitimate or unauthorized software keys, which are obtained through illicit means, volume license abuse, or regional price arbitrage.

Is it safe to buy from actsoftware.net?

No, it is generally not safe.

Purchasing from sites like actsoftware.net carries significant risks, including receiving non-genuine keys that can be deactivated, security vulnerabilities from potentially tampered software, and a lack of official support.

Can a “lifetime” license for Office 365 be real?

No, a “lifetime” license for Office 365 is not real. Linnworks.com Reviews

Microsoft Office 365 is a subscription service that requires recurring payments monthly or annually. Any claim of a “lifetime” key for Office 365 is fraudulent.

What happens if I use an illegitimate software key?

If you use an illegitimate software key, your software may initially activate but could be deactivated by Microsoft or Kaspersky at any time.

You will not receive official updates or support, and your system may be at risk of malware or other security issues.

Will my money be refunded if the key from actsoftware.net stops working?

While actsoftware.net might have a refund policy, based on general patterns of such sites, obtaining a refund for a deactivated or non-working key can be difficult or impossible.

What are the ethical concerns of buying from actsoftware.net?

Buying from sites like actsoftware.net supports the grey market or illicit distribution of software, which undermines legitimate software developers and their intellectual property. Ingeus.co.uk Reviews

It goes against principles of fair dealing and honesty in transactions.

What are the best alternatives to actsoftware.net for buying software?

The best alternatives are purchasing directly from Microsoft’s official website, through authorized retailers e.g., Best Buy, Amazon – ensuring “Sold by Amazon”, or utilizing legitimate educational or business discounts.

Are there free and legitimate alternatives to Microsoft Office?

Yes, absolutely.

Excellent free and open-source alternatives include LibreOffice, Google Docs/Sheets/Slides part of Google Workspace’s free tier, and OnlyOffice. These are perfectly legitimate and capable. Elonpartners.com Reviews

How can I check if my Windows license is genuine?

You can check your Windows activation status in Settings > Update & Security > Activation. For detailed information, open Command Prompt as an administrator and type slmgr /dli or slmgr /dlv to see the license channel e.g., Retail, OEM, Volume.

How can I check if my Microsoft Office license is genuine?

For Microsoft 365, check your subscriptions at account.microsoft.com/services. For perpetual Office versions e.g., Office 2019/2021, open any Office app, go to File > Account, and check “Product Information.”

What should I do if I already bought an illegitimate key from actsoftware.net?

First, back up your data. Then, perform a thorough malware scan.

Uninstall the illegitimate software and purchase a genuine license from an authorized source. You might also consider reporting the vendor.

Can using illegitimate software expose my computer to viruses?

Yes. Schleich-s.com Reviews

Websites selling illegitimate software can be sources of malware, or the software itself might be bundled with malicious code.

Even if the key isn’t malicious, the lack of proper updates due to an invalid license makes your system vulnerable.

Is Kaspersky software from actsoftware.net trustworthy?

No.

Similar to the Microsoft products, the extremely low price for Kaspersky Total Security suggests the key is not from an authorized channel.

It could be a revoked key, a limited-region key, or otherwise illegitimate. Episodic.co.za Reviews

Does actsoftware.net offer customer support?

The website mentions “exceptional customer support,” but the quality and availability of support for potentially illegitimate products are questionable.

Official support for genuine software always comes from the developer or authorized reseller.

How do “volume licenses” relate to sites like actsoftware.net?

“Volume licenses” are keys intended for large organizations to activate many computers under one agreement.

Sites like actsoftware.net often illegally resell these keys to individuals.

While they may activate, they are not meant for individual retail use and can be revoked.

What are the risks of using software with a revoked license?

A revoked license means your software will no longer be activated.

It will stop receiving updates, may enter a reduced-functionality mode, or cease to work entirely.

This leaves you with an unusable product and a waste of your money.

How can I avoid falling for similar scams in the future?

Always be skeptical of “too good to be true” prices.

Purchase software directly from the manufacturer or verified, authorized retailers.

Research any unknown vendor thoroughly by checking independent reviews and company transparency before making a purchase.

Are there any legal consequences for individuals using illegitimate software?

While individual users are rarely prosecuted for using a single illegitimate copy, the primary consequence is usually the deactivation of the software, making it unusable.

However, businesses can face significant legal penalties for using unlicensed software.