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Windows Logo Program (WHQL)

 

Microsoft offers hardware vendors a testing program that awards the use of the Designed for Windows logo. This logo provides purchasers and end-users with confidence that systems and peripherals will work with the Windows operating systems. The program allows vendors to leverage the worldwide awareness of the Windows brand through the use of the windows logo. That logo, on the vendor's product packaging, advertising or website, signals to customers that the product has been tested to verify that it meets Microsoft standards for compatibility with Windows. The product also receives exposure on the Microsoft website.

What is WHQL?

WHQL is the facility within Microsoft that is responsible for the "Designed for Windows" logo. The acronym "WHQL" is Windows Hardware Quality Labs. The "WHQL Process" can look very complicated to a vendor unfamiliar with the steps needed to have a system or device logo'd. Allion can guide you through this process and will work with you to get your product successfully tested and logo certified.

The purpose of the Microsoft Windows Hardware Quality Labs (WHQL) is to ensure the compatibility of hardware with Microsoft Windows operating systems. WHQL provides test kits to qualify devices, systems and servers for the "Designed for Windows" logos and for inclusion on the Windows Hardware Compatibility List (HCL).

*This from the Microsoft WHQL web site

What can Allion do?

For nearly a decade, Allion has been an authorized testing site for Microsoft's "Windows Logo Program". With our tremendous experience in assisting vendors with both WHQL pre-testing services and navigation of the WHQL process, Allion is your top alternative for getting "Windows Logo Program" certified.

Allion is experienced with all aspects of WHQL testing and can provide vendors with prompt feedback on failures and advice on what is required to achieve a passing result. If a product does not pass the pre-test program, Allion can work with the vendor to debug the problems. Vendors may submit products as often as they would like; Allion will debug the product until it passes the test. The pre-test report remains confidential-it's not shared with Microsoft by Allion.

Methodology varies depending on the type of device being tested (system, modem, storage device, etc.). For an overview of the WHQL process, please visit the Microsoft site: http://www.microsoft.com/whdc/winlogo/default.mspx