How to Find a Certificate of Authenticity

COAs determine if software has been counterfeited.

Computer and software manufacturers use Certificates of Authenticity (COAs) to help consumers identify legal software from bootleg software made from illegal copies. It is the way to know if the software has been counterfeited. The packaging and media can look identical to legal versions. Calling the manufacturer with the COA 25-digit number or entering the number on the manufacturer's website is the only way to prove that the number is legitimate.

Instructions

1. Look on the software packaging. Retail software will have the COA on top of the software package.

2. Look on the software. Some software manufactures place the COA on the installation media envelope or case.

3. Look on the computer. Computers using Windows Operating Systems will have the COA on the side of the desktop's hard drive, or on the bottom of the computer for laptops. Personal Digital Assistants or other small devices will have the COA under the battery or on a label on the device's body.

4. Look on the software documentation. Buying a computer with non-Windows software already installed will not present a problem for COA documentation. The software documentation or re-installation disk will have the COA.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are buying a refurbished PC, the COA will prove that someone authorized by Microsoft to refurbish computers has refurbished the computer. A refurbished computer's COA is on the body of the computer and it will state that the type of PC it is.

• If the computer or software does not have a COA, question the person from whom you are buying it. If they cannot prove that the software is authentic, call the manufacturer to confirm. Non-authentic software could damage your system.

References

• Microsoft.com: Wht is a Certificate of Authenticity (COA)?
• Microsoft.com: Certificate of Authenticity
• Microsoft.com: Refurbished PC Pre-installed Windows COA