Background

• Microsoft Windows operating systems are popular, but also widely pirated. The Genuine Advantage Validation Tool is part of Microsoft's efforts to reduce the use of counterfeit software.
  
  As well as checking that the software is genuine, it offers users of counterfeit software opportunities to legitimize their software and to make a report if they believe that the software they were using is genuine.
  
  

Usage

• The Genuine Advantage utility is downloaded as part of the Windows Update process and verifies whether the Windows software is counterfeit.
  
  If the utility detects that your software is not genuine, you are given the opportunity to purchase a legitimate copy or enter a valid license key.
  
  

Restrictions

• If you continue to use the counterfeit software after it has been detected by the Genuine Advantage utility, Microsoft will prevent you from downloading certain software updates. It is always recommended that you ensure the software you are using is legal.