November 29th, 2006
Microsoft tweaks WGA Notifications
Yesterday I blogged about the fact that Microsoft has made some changes to how the WGA (Windows Genuine Advantage) Notifications application works. Today I'll show you some of the changes that Microsoft has carried out to this application to try to make it fairer.
The changes that Microsoft have made to the WGA Notifications applications are designed to make it fairer, offer more information to affected users and offer information useful troubleshooting information.
Complete gallery of images available here.
Have a look. See what you think.
Loading ...New Installation Wizard: Intro
The first screen in the Wizard provides an introduction to WGA Notifications. This screen clearly explains the benefit, and the possible consequences if the system is non-genuine. It also offers optional automatic installation of future updates with no interruptions. Clicking “Cancel” will prevent installation of the update.
New Installation Wizard: License
WGA Notifications previously installed with license screen opt-in only. Users asked for more detailed information about what was being installed onto their systems. This new screen provides a full license to read, along with a link to privacy statement, plus the option to print.
If user wants to install, they click “I Agree” followed by “Next”. If user does not want to install, they click “I Do Not Agree” or “Cancel”.
New Installation Wizard: Feedback
Users now receive immediate feedback on whether validation of their system was successful or not. Previously, they had to wait until the system rebooted. Now a reboots is no longer required.
Users receive notice that validation may be required in the future.
Indeterminate State
If validation can’t be completed due to a local system error or network error, the following notification is displayed explaining that they system is in an indeterminate state. WGA Notifications offers full details and troubleshooting options.
Non-Genuine Notification
Systems that fail validation receive notification that their copy of Windows “did not pass genuine validation” and they may be a “victim of counterfeiting”. User can click on the message to learn more about what this means, including the following options:
- Qualify to receive a free replacement (high-quality counterfeits qualify)
- Purchase a genuine Windows key online
- Troubleshoot further
Explaining Validation Failure
When a user clicks to learn more, they are taken to a customized Web page. From this page they have several options:
- Learn what caused the failure
- Purchase a genuine Windows key online
- Troubleshoot further
- Learn more about the risks of running non-genuine Windows, and how to protect yourself
Adrian is a technology journalist and author who has devoted over a decade to helping users get the most from technology. He also runs a popular blog called The PC Doctor. See his full profile and disclosure of his industry affiliations
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| 11/29/06
