WHQL Testing
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Windows Hardware Quality Labs testing or WHQL Testing is a testing process which involves running a series of tests on third-party (i.e. non-Microsoft) hardware or software, 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, like different hardware and different Microsoft Windows editions.
New since June 2007 is the requirement of a Fidelity Test equipment (Audio Precision SYS-2722-A-M) for System Submissions.
Products that pass the WHQL tests get to use a "Certified for Windows" logotype, which certifies that the hardware or software has had some share of testing by Microsoft to ensure compatibility. The actual logo used depends on the version of Windows.
For device drivers passing the WHQL tests, Microsoft creates a digitally signed certification file that, when included in the driver installation package allows installation on 64 bit versions of Windows Vista and prevents 32 bit versions of Vista, and all versions of Windows XP from displaying a warning message that the driver has not been certified by Microsoft.
Some device drivers that have passed the WHQL tests are also made available for download using Windows Update.
