Windows Hardware Quality Labs
The Windows Hardware Quality Labs ( WHQL ) are a Microsoft facility for the certification of device drivers and complete systems. For certification, a device manufacturer tests its product or device driver according to Microsoft specifications and then submits the test protocol. If necessary, Microsoft will then carry out further tests.
After successfully completing the tests, the device manufacturer may add a logo to their product. The device driver also receives a digital signature from Microsoft. Microsoft Windows warns of possible risks when installing device drivers without this digital signature. Certified device drivers are also distributed via Windows Update and the Microsoft Update Catalog .
Device drivers are deeply anchored in the operating system and can easily trigger instabilities and system crashes if programmed incorrectly . Microsoft therefore intends to improve the quality of device drivers with the WHQL certification in order to achieve better stability of the Windows operating system.
Complete computer systems and peripheral devices can also be certified. Customers should then perceive devices with certification as being of higher quality.
Since June 1, 2007, an audio fidelity test with the special Audio Precision SYS-2722-AM test equipment has been required to receive a certificate for computer systems for Windows Vista . This is also intended to ensure that the quality of sound reproduction is met.
There are currently two levels in the Windows Logo Program 3.0 : Basic and Premium .
Critics see the program as an attempt to impair market freedom .
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- ↑ FAQ for Windows Logo Program V. 3.0 (English)
Web links
- Windows Logo Program: Overview (English)