Short for hardware compatibility list, HCL is a listing of hardware that is compatible with Microsoft Windows operating systems, such as Windows NT.

Microsoft also refers to the HCL as the Windows Certified Products List. More information on how to search for hardware in the HCL is available on the Windows certified products list page.

Developers wanting to have their hardware added to the HCL need to follow the testing and submission process in Microsoft’s Windows hardware compatibility program.

Microsoft only maintains an HCL for versions of Windows that are currently supported.

Computer acronyms, Operating system terms, WHQL

  • How to determine the version of Windows on a computer.
  • How to install the Microsoft Windows operating system.