WHQL Testing

The Windows Hardware Certification Kit (Windows HCK) is a test framework used to certify hardware devices for Windows. To qualify for a Windows certification, previously known as Windows logo, your product must pass testing using the Windows HCK.

The Windows Hardware Certification program (formerly Windows Hardware Quality Labs Testing, WHQL Testing, or Windows Logo Testing) is Microsoft's testing process which involves running a series of tests on third-party device drivers, and then submitting the log files from these tests to Microsoft for review. The procedure may also include Microsoft running their own tests on a wide range of equipment, such as different hardware and different Microsoft Windows editions.

Overview

Certified for Vista Logo

Warning for uncertified hardware drivers on Windows XP

The "Found New Hardware Wizard" of Windows XP

When your hardware or software passes WHQL testing, developers can use the "Designed for Windows" logo or similar marks on their product packaging and advertisements. This signifies their compatibility and compliance with Microsoft standards. WHQL-certified products are included in the Windows Hardware Compatibility List and Windows Catalog.^[1]

Since 7 January 2014, Microsoft no longer requires a WHQL testing fee,^[2] which used to be US$250 per operating system family.^[3] This fee covered both x86 and x64 driver SKUs, if submitted simultaneously, and was non-refundable. The fee did not include other expenses, such as the Windows license necessary for running WHQL tests, and the VeriSign certificate necessary for submitting test results.^[4]

References

^ "What Is WHQL Certification and How to Obtain It?". www.nicsrs.com. Retrieved 2024-06-18.
^ "Hardware Certification Policies and Processes" (DOC). Microsoft Corporation. 7 January 2014. Retrieved 24 June 2015.
^ Bethel, Lyndon (21 August 2006). "DTM Global WHQL Policies Draft" (DOC). Microsoft Corporation. p. 28. Retrieved 7 February 2011.
^ "Windows Logo Kit 1.6 Step by Step Guide". Microsoft Corporation. 13 September 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011.