What is a Windows COA (certificate of authenticity) retail or OEM sticker?

What is a COA?

A Windows COA is a certificate of authenticity sticker that proves that your copy of Windows is genuine. This, along with an original Windows cd, confirm that your copy is genuine.

Where can I find my COA Sticker?

A COA (certificate of authenticity) sticker can be found on either side of a tower or desktop computer case. It can also be found on the top, however very rarely at the bottom or back of a computer case.

How do I know if my COA is a counterfeit?

If you have tried to Activate your copy of Windows and have been rejected than there is usually something wrong. I have never had a problem activating Windows. You must make sure you have the disc that matches your COA. For example if it says Windows XP Home then the cd must say this also. You can go to the Microsoft website to see if your COA is genuine.

What’s the difference between a retail and a OEM Windows version?

• Retail - A retail version Of Windows is more expensive than the OEM and usually comes in the big fancy box with the COA attached. You can install this Windows on any computer, only one at any time, as long as it has the COA with it. If your computer breaks down you can remove the sticker and the software to use on your new pc.
• OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) – An OEM COA is meant the the pc it was originally made for. The OEM sticker will have the version of Windows with the manufacturers name underneath. You cannot remove the sticker and use it on another computer as this copy of Windows is only to be used with the original pc it came with. An OEM is cheaper than the retail version of Windows.

Notes:

• An OEM and a retail version of Windows are the same program, except for the limitations on the OEM.
• If you have a computer with a COA sticker but no cd, it is not genuine until you have an original cd that matches your COA.
• If you change your hardware in your computer drastically, you may not be able to use your OEM copy of Windows as it will think it is a different computer.