How to Stop Windows Genuine Advantage

Windows General Advantage alerts users if their version of Windows may be counterfeit.

Windows Genuine Advantage helps you determine whether your copy of the Windows operating system is genuine. Having a genuine, licensed version of Windows helps ensure that you are getting the full Microsoft experience. In addition, pirated versions of Windows may include bundles of malicious software that can lead to corrupted files and compromise your data privacy. If you have failed to register your copy of Windows, Windows Genuine Advantage may prompt you that your copy of Windows is not genuine, even when it is. To avoid pop-ups, you can disable Windows Genuine Advantage.

Instructions

1. Reboot your computer. Hold down "F8" when rebooting.

2. Select the option to reboot in "Safe Mode."

3. Click the "Start" button. Select "Run." Type "regedit.exe" to run your registry editor program.

4. Press the "F3" button. In the search bar, type "wgalogon." Right-click on the folder named "wgaogon." Select "Delete."

5. Click the "Start" button, and select "Search." Type in "wga*" to locate all Windows Genuine Advantage files. Delete all files that begin with "wga" by right-clicking and selecting "Delete."

6. Reboot your computer.

References

• Microsoft: Genuine Microsoft Software
• Computing.net: How to Disable WGA