How to Know a Genuine Windows CD
- 1). Look for a certificate of authenticity on the box. It will have a Microsoft serial number at one of its edges and will be printed on multi-colored paper. It will also have a holographic element.
- 2). Check the disc. A Windows CD has a copper finish with several holograms that appear and disappear when you hold the CD up to the light. The disc should also have a wavy design near the edges.
- 3). Run the disc under water. Although this may not always be practical in the middle of a store, if you get your disc home and suspect it is counterfeit, run it under your faucet. If the disc is genuine, it will be unaffected by the running water. If not, you will see peeling or discoloration occur.
