File-hosting services like MediaFire, MEGA, or Dropbox automatically scan uploaded files for malware. A password-protected archive bypasses these automatic scans, allowing the file to remain online longer.

Most antivirus programs (Windows Defender, McAfee, Norton, etc.) instantly flag KMS tools as or RiskWare . By packing the tool into a password-protected ZIP or RAR archive, the creator prevents the antivirus from scanning the contents inside during download or while stored on disk. The password is a simple lock that gives the user a false sense of responsibility: "Only people who know the password can open it."

: This method requires a KMS host key and a KMS server setup. When a client (a computer or device) connects to the KMS server, it can activate the Microsoft product. This activation is usually valid for a certain period (typically 180 days), after which the client needs to reactivate.