Windows Genuine Advantage Problems and Solutions

What Exactly is Windows Genuine Advantage?

Windows Genuine Advantage is Microsoft`s approach to crack down on pirated versions of Windows and other Microsoft products. Microsoft first started with an ActiveX which made people validate their version of Windows before they could update. However this method was easily worked around.

They are now adding a Windows Genuine Advantage security patch to the new updates. It tells the user during login that they may be a victim of counterfeiting. If your computer doesn`t pass the validation then you cannot install any updates or Microsoft software like Internet Explorer 7 or Windows Media Player 11.

What Should I do If my version of Windows is not Validating?

Microsoft is offering several options if you happend to have bought a counterfit version of Windows. People can give the original counterfit CD and proof of purchase and details and Microsoft will give you one for free. However only really good counterfits qualify.

For others who got it from someone else, the Internet, or some other way must buy a fully licenced version. The Windows XP Home Edition license is about $99.00, and the XP Pro Edition is $149.00. It will include a new 25-character Product Key and will let customers change their pirated version of Windows to a legit electronically.

If you buy the OEM version then you will have to format your computer and reinstall Windows. You can also buy the upgrade and change the bootleg to a legit version. Just remember XP Home can only upgrade XP Home, where XP Pro upgrade can upgrade both XP Home and Pro.