Windows Genuine Advantage

What is WGA Notifications?
Genuine Microsoft Software

Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications is a program that helps Microsoft fight software piracy and helps you validate that the copy of Microsoft Windows XP installed on your computer is genuine and properly licensed.

By confirming that your copy of Windows XP is genuine, you can take advantage of all the capabilities, support, and continuous improvements—as well as the peace of mind—that come with using genuine Windows. If your copy is not genuine, WGA Notifications will provide periodic reminders to help you take the appropriate action. It's part of Microsoft's commitment to fight software counterfeiting and help you avoid problems before they happen.
Why use WGA Notifications?

Software piracy is a worldwide problem that affects Microsoft, consumers, partners, and the broad industry. Unlike a pirated or counterfeit copy, a genuine copy of Windows XP is backed by Microsoft or a trusted partner, and comes with the features and performance you'd expect. Recent research shows that acquiring and using counterfeit software can be risky. Installing the latest WGA Notifications can keep your system up to date and alert you to the presence of counterfeit.
What are the benefits of using genuine Windows?

The Capabilities You Expect

* Your system will deliver the features, options, and performance you need to maximize your productivity and enjoyment.

Confidence and Peace of Mind

* Your software is authentic, properly licensed, and supported by Microsoft or a trusted partner.
* Genuine software helps reduce the risk of viruses, spyware, and other malware.

Ongoing Improvements

* You'll get access to updates, enhancements, and innovations that help you do more with your PC.

Why does it matter?
"I thought I was getting a real copy of Microsoft Windows."
- Kathryn Belfon, California
Read stories from genuine Windows consumers >>

Each year, millions of consumers and small businesses are hurt by counterfeit software they have purchased unwittingly, and many companies that sell legitimate software have difficulty competing with low "too good to be true" prices offered by software counterfeiters. In the last year, Microsoft has worked with law enforcement agencies to bring actions against hundreds of counterfeit dealers. However, many consumers still end up with counterfeit copies of Microsoft software and are unwitting victims of a crime. These consumers believe they purchased a properly licensed copy—and often have the documents to back this up—but their copy is not properly licensed.

In addition, counterfeit software is increasingly becoming a vehicle for the distribution of viruses and malware that can target unsuspecting users, potentially exposing them to identity theft and corruption or loss of personal or business data.

Since WGA's inception, nearly 500 million people have validated and can now enjoy the peace of mind that comes from running genuine Windows software.

You can read the stories of how Windows Genuine Advantage has helped customers all around the world.
How does WGA Notifications Work?

Windows Genuine Advantage Notifications automatically checks the validity of your Windows XP license. It's fast, easy, and private. As described in our privacy statement, Microsoft does not use any information collected by WGA to identify you or contact you.

If there is a problem with your Windows XP license, you will be given simple steps to fix it. Microsoft can help you by offering:

* A detailed description of the cause of the problem. For example, you may have accidentally received a product key that was reported as lost or stolen by its original owner. Sometimes, during a repair or reinstall, an invalid product key is used if the original product key is not handy.
* A replacement key or replacement copy of Windows. If you are a victim of software counterfeiting, you may qualify for a free replacement copy.

You can also go online or contact Microsoft for further assistance.

In most cases, systems pass validation immediately, and the whole process takes just a couple of minutes. In the event of a validation failure, your system will give you reminders to take further action if necessary.