Driver Maintenance: Getting Started

To qualify products for the Windows Logo Programs.

Winqual processes submissions from manufacturers who want to participate in the testing programs for Microsoft logo programs such as the Windows Logo Program for hardware. Manufacturers of qualifying products can license the Windows Logo for use on product packaging and marketing materials, reassuring customers that your products work well with the Windows platform.

To create and submit a package for the Windows Logo Program or for driver signing, follow the directions on the Winqual web site. Microsoft processes your submission and then provides a pass or fail test report.

To view Windows Error Reporting (WER) data - whether or not the product has the Windows Logo.

WER is a set of Windows technologies that capture crash data and support end-user reporting of crash information, creating a feedback loop for addressing user problems.

Through Winqual services, software and hardware vendors can analyze the data and respond to users who experience these problems.

To manage driver updates.

Windows Update is the online extension of Windows that helps keep the operating system and drivers up to date, providing a mechanism that you can use to reach your customers with updates, helping to reduce your support costs.

If your drivers receive digital signatures through the Windows Logo program, you can use Winqual services to manage distribution of drivers on Windows Update.

Winqual services provide a mechanism for manufacturers to submit marketing information about products for use in the the .NET Connected Directory.