i have windows xp 2 and i get the little thing in the bottom corner by the clock to do updates, but it won't let me do any updates unless i install windows genuine advantage, i don't want that on my computer because it says that it is a permanant piece of software. i have a 'genuine' copy of windows running. i just don't like the sound of permanant software. is there any way around this?

No. It is a check for pirated software. If your Windows is not pirated then you have no worry.

its just making sure your "copy" of windows is legit. if you bought your pc legitly, and stuff, then its all good, just let it install. its not a big program, really small, just lets windows know "your good to go!".

then you can get all your updates. which is important... =)

good ruck!