Windows XP
The Windows Genuine Advantage validation is required when you request a genuine Windows download from the Microsoft Download Center or from Windows Update. The validation process applies to the following Microsoft Windows XP editions:
- Windows XP Home Edition
- Windows XP Professional
- Windows XP Tablet PC Edition
- Windows XP Media Center Edition
All users of genuine Windows and non-genuine Windows software can access security updates through Automatic Updates. The Windows validation is required to make sure that customers have access to the latest features, updates, and support from Microsoft.
To validate your Windows XP software, visit the following Web site, and then click
Validate Windows:
If the validation is unsuccessful, you will receive a description of why the software is not genuine Windows software. Additionally, you will receive information about how to obtain genuine Windows software.
Windows Vista
The Windows Genuine Advantage validation is required when you request a genuine Windows download from the Microsoft Download Center or from Windows Update. The validation process applies to all Windows Vista editions. This includes the following editions:
- Windows Vista Starter
- Windows Vista Home Basic
- Windows Vista Home Basic N
- Windows Vista Home Premium
- Windows Vista Business
- Windows Vista Business N
- Windows Vista Enterprise
- Windows Vista Ultimate
All users of genuine Windows and non-genuine Windows software can access security updates through Automatic Updates. The Windows validation is required to make sure that customers have access to the latest features, updates, and support from Microsoft.
To validate your Windows Vista software, visit the following Web site, and then click
Validate Windows:
If the validation is unsuccessful, you will receive a description of why the software is not genuine Windows software. Additionally, you will receive information about how to obtain genuine Windows software.
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