| title | description | ms.topic | ms.date | keywords | ms.localizationpriority | ms.collection |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Welcome to Windows app development |
A guide to help developers get started with developing for Windows |
how-to |
12/17/2025 |
windows, desktop development |
medium |
windows11 |
:::image type="content" source="images/essentials-header.png" alt-text="Windows logo with app icons floating in the background" border="false":::
Windows app development lets you build powerful, native experiences across millions of devices. Whether you’re creating a new app or modernizing an existing one, Windows provides flexible frameworks, APIs, and tools for everything from lightweight utilities to feature-rich applications. This documentation guides you through designing, building, packaging, and publishing apps, so you can focus on creating great user experiences.
Get oriented with the Windows app platform and how SDKs, frameworks, and tools fit together. Learn core concepts and project setup, and choose the right starting point for your app.
[!INCLUDE apps-essentials-overview]
Design modern, intuitive apps that feel at home on Windows. Explore Fluent Design principles, UI foundations, and guidance for layout, motion, typography, and accessibility.
[!INCLUDE apps-design-overview]
Build apps using frameworks, APIs, and platform features. Find guidance for new apps, modernizing existing ones, and integrating WinUI 3, WinRT, and Windows App SDK.
[!INCLUDE apps-develop-overview]
Prepare your app for distribution across Windows devices. Learn how to package, sign, and deploy apps using MSIX, internal distribution, or the Microsoft Store.
Get started with package and deploy
[!INCLUDE apps-packaging-overview]
Publish and manage your app in the Microsoft Store. Learn how to set up a developer account, submit apps, monitor performance, manage updates, and follow Store policies.
Get started with the Microsoft Store
[!INCLUDE apps-distribute-overview]