Criteria for Windows XP Software Compliance

To be considered by Microsoft as compatible with or designed for Windows XP, software must meet specific criteria from the “Designed for Microsoft Windows XP” Application Specification, excerpted below.

To meet requirements for basic compatibility, applications must conform to rules 1.1 through 1.3. To get the “Designed for Windows” logo, applications must meet all rules in sections 1.0 through 3.0. To meet requirements for the “Designed for Windows XP—Optimized” level, which includes the logo and preferential placement in the online Windows Catalog, applications must meet all rules in sections 1.0 through 3.0 and all the rules in one of sections S1, S2, S3, or S4. Section S5 is advisable for future compatibility, but it is not required to obtain the Windows XP logo.

1.0-Windows Fundamentals

1.1. Perform primary functionality and maintain stability

1.2. Any kernel-mode drivers that the application installs must pass verification testing on Windows XP

1.3. Any device or filter drivers included with the application must pass Windows HCT testing