Packaged Software
Learn more about features included with genuine Microsoft software, including the packaging, product key labels, and the Certificate of Authenticity (COA). When you purchase software such as Windows, Office, or Windows Server on its own (not preinstalled on a PC), this is called packaged software. Typically, packaged software can be purchased from a retail store, an authorized reseller, or an online reseller. Here are some quick things you can look for when purchasing packaged software:
Introducing the new Microsoft Authentication Label:
How to Tell This is Genuine
Microsoft Retail Box Top COA prior to April 2021:
The Certificates of Authenticity (COA) label is used on the outside of retail boxed software and explains what the product is, its country of intended use and country of origin. The label has the following anti-counterfeit security features:
- Holographic Feature
- Color-Shifting Feature
Microsoft Retail Box Top COA prior to April 2021:
The Certificates of Authenticity (COA) label is used on the outside of retail boxed software and explains what the product is, its country of intended use and country of origin. The label has the following anti-counterfeit security features:
- Holographic Feature
- Color-Shifting Feature
In Addition, as of May, 2020, for Southeast Asia, India and Korea Microsoft has deployed a unique authentication label on Retail product. In those countries this label can be found next to the Retail Box COA as shown in the image here:
Product key label
The product key label is a white or orange label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) for a product and contains a 25 character product key. The product key label should not be purchased separately.
This product key label is a white label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) for a product and contains a 25 character product key. In addition to the barcode and product key there is a small amount of print on the left edge and the top right corner. On close inspection (a magnifying glass may be required) the name “MICROSOFT” can be seen in blue in the left side and in green on the right side. The product key label should not be purchased separately.
Product key label
The product key label is a white or orange label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) for a product and contains a 25 character product key. The product key label should not be purchased separately.
This product key label is a white label that accompanies the installation CD/DVD/USB and Certificate of Authenticity (COA) for a product and contains a 25 character product key. In addition to the barcode and product key there is a small amount of print on the left edge and the top right corner. On close inspection (a magnifying glass may be required) the name “MICROSOFT” can be seen in blue in the left side and in green on the right side. The product key label should not be purchased separately.
About Al Ershad
Al Ershad has now become an electronics destination, has come a long way and achieved many milestones to become a computer shop in Dubai, UAE with over 25,000 electronic products and accessories online to choose from reputed international brands. Our exemplary service and product knowledge ensure that all product availability concerns associated with laptops and accessories are met satisfactorily. We guarantee the best price in the UAE market and render exceptional service and ambience to become the best destination for computer enthusiasts as well as laptop lovers.
+971 52 902 3208