How to Remove Genuine Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created Windows Genuine Advantage to reduce the number of pirated copies of its software.

Microsoft created the Windows Genuine Advantage (WGA) software to thwart software piracy. WGA was included in Windows XP and Vista, and included in Windows 7 as Windows Software Protection Platform. WGA's primary purpose is to determine if the Windows software running on a machine is legal, genuine software or a pirated copy. If the operating system software is genuine, Microsoft will allow you to download and install patches and updates, and utilize all the software capabilities.



WGA is not infallible and may incorrectly label a legal copy as pirated. If you bought and paid for Windows legitimately, you can regain the use of your computer with a few simple steps. If Windows is pirated, the process may make your situation worse rather than better.

Instructions

1. Direct your browser to the Deposit Files File Download page and download "WGA19420.rar" to your "My Documents" folder. There will be two options to download this file, a free version and a paid version. Choose the version that best meets your needs using the comparison information at the bottom of the page.

2. When your download is complete, right-click the file and choose to save "\WGA19420\WGA" using your archive manager. The necessary files are installer.bat, legitcheckcontrol.dll, wgalogon.dll and wgatray.exe.

   If you need to download an archive manager, go to the CNET 7-Zip page and download and install 7-Zip. 7-Zip is open source software and will always be free.

3. Run "installer.bat" and follow the prompts to fix WGA so that you can continue to receive Windows Updates. These updates patch the vulnerabilities in your legitimately licensed Microsoft products.

4. If, for any reason, you want to undo the WGA repair, click "Start" > "Run", type "Cmd" and click "OK" to access the command prompt screen. Type the following command:

   cd "My Documents\WGA19420\WGA"

   Press "Enter." Type the following: "installer /u"

   Hit "Enter," then follow the prompts.

5. Click "Start" > "Run" and type "Cmd" in the command prompt. Click "OK." Type the following:

   cd "My Documents\WGA19420\WGA"

   Press "Enter." Type the following:

   "installer /c"

   Hit "Enter," then follow the prompts.

References

• ZDNet: For Vista, WGA Gets Tougher
• Microsoft: Genuine Microsoft Software

Resources

• Deposit Files: File Download
• CNET: 7-Zip -- Free Software downloads and software reviews