My problem is with having to do that in the first place. Getting a new computer all set up like you want is already a bitch and a half, and they'd just be adding to my grief. It has nothing to do with how amiable or expedient the helpdesk is, it's the principle of the thing. Anyway, the method is just there to deter piracy, which is a hopeless endeavor in the first place since there are probably cracks already available.
@ Yoozer, SGX: I dunno why, but it seems like you guys are trying to make me feel like I'm in the wrong with the idea that if I buy something, it belongs to me forever. Keeping totally legal with Ableton seems like buying a car, but only being able to drive it twice, and then calling them every time to allow me start it up after that. I dunno why the honest folk have it harder than the people who use cracks, in this situation. I guess the best thing to do is to buy the software legally, then crack it. At least the devs get their money that way. Though Ableton is asking too much for Live considering it's just a DAW. Maybe they should combat piracy by lowering the price instead?
p.s. this debate doesn't really affect me at all since I am a proud owner of a brand new Renoise! ( ̄▽ ̄)