Windows Genuine Advantage Changes For Windows Vista SP1

Currently Windows Vista’s Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) disables programs on users’ computers if it suspects the software is pirated, opting instead for a gentler approach based on nagging alerts.

Microsoft stated that it will roll out the new version of Windows Genuine Advantage with the first "service pack" for Windows Vista due in the first quarter of 2008.

Presently, when a user attempts to activate or download certain software from Microsoft’s website, Windows Genuine Advantage scans the user’s PC for signs of pirated software. Today, if the tool finds an unauthorized copy of Windows Vista, WGA will disable Windows Aero (The new glass interface) and also disables other features in Windows Vista.

In the new version of WGA coming with Windows Vista SP1, PC users found to have a pirated copy of Windows Vista will continue to be able to use their computers, but with unmistakable signs that they are not running a genuine version of Windows. The desktop will turn the wallpaper black and a white notice (watermark) will be  placed on the desktop alerting users to the problem.

Each time they log in, they will be prompted to buy a legal version of Windows Vista, and every hour a reminder bubble will appear on screen again alerting the user that their copy of Windows is not genuine.

Note: This blog entry was originally posted on thewindowsblog.net. View original post