How To Validate Your Windows Genuine Advantage In 2010
Windows Genuine Advantage Validation 2010: What You Need to Know
Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) is a system created by Microsoft to verify the authenticity of your Windows operating system and prevent software piracy. WGA is required when you download certain updates and components from the Microsoft Download Center or Windows Update. In this article, we will explain what WGA validation is, how it works, and why it is important for your Windows security and performance.
How to Validate Your Windows Genuine Advantage in 2010
What is WGA validation?
WGA validation is a process that checks if your copy of Windows is genuine and licensed by Microsoft. It also checks if your Windows license matches the hardware of your computer. WGA validation consists of two components: an installable component called WGA Notifications that validates your Windows license every time you log on, and an ActiveX control that validates your Windows license when you download certain updates and components from the Microsoft Download Center or Windows Update.
How does WGA validation work?
WGA validation works as follows:
When you visit the Microsoft Download Center or Windows Update for the first time, you are asked to download and install an ActiveX control that performs the WGA validation.
If the validation is successful, a license file is stored on your computer for future verification.
If the validation fails, you will see a message informing you that your copy of Windows may not be genuine. You will also be prevented from downloading non-critical updates and components from the Microsoft Download Center or Windows Update.
In addition, if you have Windows XP, you will see a notification on your desktop that reminds you to resolve the issue. Your desktop wallpaper will also be changed to black, and a watermark will appear on the bottom-right corner of your screen.
Why is WGA validation important?
WGA validation is important for several reasons:
It helps you ensure that you are running a genuine and legal copy of Windows that has not been tampered with or modified by unauthorized parties.
It helps you protect your computer from malware and viruses that may be embedded in counterfeit or pirated software.
It helps you access the latest updates and features that improve your Windows security and performance.
It helps Microsoft combat software piracy and protect its intellectual property rights.
How can I validate my copy of Windows?
If you want to validate your copy of Windows, you can do so by following these steps:
Visit the Microsoft Genuine Advantage website.
Select your Windows edition and language.
Click on Validate Now.
Follow the instructions on the screen to download and run the ActiveX control that performs the WGA validation.
If the validation is successful, you will see a confirmation message. If the validation fails, you will see an error message with possible solutions.
How can I fix WGA validation issues?
If you encounter any issues with WGA validation, here are some possible solutions:
Make sure that you have a genuine and legal copy of Windows that was purchased from an authorized retailer or reseller. If you are not sure about the authenticity of your Windows software, you can contact Microsoft for assistance.
Make sure that you have entered the correct product key for your Windows edition. The product key is a 25-character code that is usually located on a sticker on your computer or on the packaging of your Windows software. You can also find it by using a tool like Magical Jelly Bean Keyfinder.
Make sure that you have activated your copy of Windows within 30 days of installation. Activation is a process that confirms that your copy of Windows is installed on only one computer and matches its hardware configuration. You can activate your copy of Windows online or by phone. To activate online, click on Start, then All Programs, then Accessories, then System Tools, then Activate Windows. To activate by phone, call the toll-free number 04f6b60f66