
The thing I'm worried about is the fact that Microsoft wants to check to make sure you have a legit copy of Windows XP in order to download their update. The update files themselves will probably still install in Windows XP, if you get them from other than Microsoft.
The legal issue I could see Microsoft putting up is that Ryan might be accused of subverting Microsoft's anti-piracy system by effectively downloading the updates from Microsoft and redistributing them to people who might not have a legitimate copy of Windows XP.
I've seen the forums of the folks at Autopatcher, and they are going to be facing the same problems. I'm concerned that Microsoft might send a nasty e-mail to Ryan saying "You are subverting our anti-piracy software, which is illegal in some End User License Agreement. Stop distributing your package or face legal action."
I'm going to start reading through Microsoft's EULAs and see if they have anything documented about this being illegal. I might have to even contact them, and ask about something like Autopatcher.
Just came to me while I was pondering the Mysteries of the Microsoft Universe.
--Leviathan