Downloads and tools

Windows SDK for Windows 8.1

Get the headers, libraries, and tools you need to create Windows Store and desktop apps. (Includes the Windows App Certification Kit.) Learn more about the Windows SDK for Windows 8.1.

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Windows 8.1

Windows 8.1 powers a new generation of lightweight, touch-based devices and opens up the world to your apps.

Visual Studio Professional 2013

A professional-quality integrated development environment that simplifies the tasks of creating, debugging, and deploying applications for Windows, Windows Phone, Office, the web, and the cloud.

Windows Server 2012 R2

Get a scalable, dynamic, and multitenant-aware cloud-optimized infrastructure that connects securely across premises and helps you respond to business needs faster and more efficiently.

Gaming and graphics

With DirectX, you get to explore your creative side and learn all the ways you can develop multimedia on Windows, from graphics to sound to the many cool ways you and your audience can interact with the platform.

Windows platforms

.NET

Build and run the next generation of desktop apps and XML web services with this comprehensive and consistent programming model.

WPF

Create desktop and browser-hosted apps using a resolution-independent, vector-based engine to leverage modern graphics hardware.

Azure

Build, deploy, and manage apps and PaaS/IaaS services through a global network of Microsoft-managed datacenters.

Win32 and COM

Build desktop apps and services using the core Windows APIs to leverage the performance and flexibility of the operating system.

Develop desktop apps

List your app in the Windows Store

Start with compatibility and certification

Enjoy the reach of the global Windows user base. Develop your app with compatibility and certification in mind. Once your app is certified, you can register and submit it for listing in the Windows Store.