Learn About Windows Hardware Design and Development

Start Here

Step through how to get started partnering with Microsoft to design, develop, test, certify, monitor, and maintain systems, devices, and drivers that are optimized for Windows.

Systems

Get guidance on firmware and boot, performance, power management, system internals, Windows Server platform, and more.

Devices

Find white papers, documentation, and other resources to help ensure reliability and optimal performance across each device class in the Windows platform.

Drivers

Learn about driver development, get access to the WDK and other development tools, and discover a comprehensive collection of resources for every phase of the driver development lifecycle.

Debugging

Download debugging tools, find debugging tips, and learn about the integration of debugging tools and the WDK into Visual Studio.

Hardware Certification

Get the tools, guidance, and support to help ensure your product is reliable and compatible with Windows.  

Dashboard Services

Find how-to and support information for the Windows Hardware and Desktop Dashboard services, which replaces the old Winqual services. Use these services for Windows certification submissions. device metadata, driver distribution, bug management, reports, and remote debugging

Recently Published Docs

Browse the latest hardware design and development guidance, tools, and documentation published on the Windows Dev Center.

Archived White Papers

Find hardware-related information about earlier versions of Windows that is no longer maintained but might be useful.