What is a Windows COA (certificate of authenticity) sticker?

A Windows COA is a certificate of authenticity sticker that proves that your copy of Windows is genuine. This, along with an original Windows cd, confirm that your copy is genuine.

Where can I find my COA Sticker?

A COA (certificate of authenticity) sticker can be found on either side of a tower or desktop computer case. It can also be found on the top, however very rarely at the bottom or back of a computer case.

How do I know if my COA is a counterfeit?

If you have tried to Activate your copy of Windows and have been rejected than there is usually something wrong. I have never had a problem activating Windows. You must make sure you have the disc that matches your COA. For example if it says Windows XP Home then the cd must say this also. You can go to the Microsoft website to see if your COA is genuine.

What's the difference between a retail and a OEM Windows version? certificate of authenticity OEM

Retail - A retail version Of Windows is more expensive than the OEM and usually comes in the big fancy box with the COA attached. You can install this Windows on any computer, only one at any time, as long as it has the COA with it. If your computer breaks down you can remove the sticker and the software to use on your new pc.
OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) - An OEM COA is meant the the pc it was originally made for. The OEM sticker will have the version of Windows with the manufacturers name underneath. You cannot remove the sticker and use it on another computer as this copy of Windows is only to be used with the original pc it came with. An OEM is cheaper than the retail version of Windows.

Notes:

An OEM and a retail version of Windows are the same program, except for the limitations on the OEM.
If you have a computer with a COA sticker but no cd, it is not genuine until you have an original cd that matches your COA.
If you change your hardware in your computer drastically, you may not be able to use your OEM copy of Windows as it will think it is a different computer.

Browse Sitemap for more Free Computer Help

About the Author

Mitz Pantic wrote this article and others for tips4pc.com Browse for more articles that are written in an easy to understand interface and get FREE computer help.

This article is free to re-produce providing that the author's bio is included and the website links are still clickable...

Remove programs Uninstall your programs in Window Vista
Content Advisor What is content advisor in Windows Vista and XP
Block or allow a website Choose what sites you access on your computer NEW TODAY
Allow an unrated websites Change your settings to allow unrated websites NEW TODAY
Customize folders Change the look by adding a picture
Quick Launch toolbar How to enable and add icons
Run Command Window Some useful commands you can type in
Burn a CD Use the built in Cd Burner Program for Windows XP
Windows Control Panel A basic summary of what is there
Create Directory List make a list of files in a folder
Folder Options What settings can you change in Control Panels folder options NEW TODAY
Change a drive letter Change your hard drive or dvd drive letter in Windows XP NEW TODAY
Scheduled tasks How to change settings in Window XP NEW TODAY
Path to a File or Folder Find a file or folder path in Windows XP NEW TODAY
Common Folder paths Here are some hard to remember folder paths in Window XP NEW TODAY
Hide a folder Protect an important folder by hiding it from your children NEW TODAY

Get Tips4pc monthly newsletter! 543 members so far!