Windows Development - Get Started

Get Started with Windows Development

Welcome to the world of Windows development! Whether you're looking to build native desktop applications, modern UWP apps, games, or leverage Windows Subsystem for Linux (WSL), this guide will help you get started.

Windows offers a rich platform with diverse technologies and tools, empowering you to create experiences that millions of users can enjoy.

Native Applications

Build robust desktop applications using Win32, WPF, or WinForms.

Modern Apps (UWP)

Create scalable, adaptive applications for all Windows devices.

Game Development

Develop immersive games with DirectX, Unity, or Unreal Engine.

WSL Development

Run Linux tools and applications directly on Windows.

Set Up Your Development Environment

The first step is to install the necessary tools. Visual Studio is the primary IDE for Windows development.

1.

Install Visual Studio

Download and install the latest version of Visual Studio. Make sure to select the appropriate workloads for the type of development you plan to do (e.g., .NET desktop development, UWP development, Game development).

Download Visual Studio

2.

Install SDKs and Tools

Visual Studio will guide you through installing Windows SDKs and other necessary components based on your selected workloads. You may also need to install specific frameworks like .NET or C++ build tools.

Visual Studio Installer - Workloads

- .NET desktop development

- Universal Windows Platform development

- Game development with C++

3.

Consider WSL (Optional)

If you plan to work with Linux tools or development workflows, enable and install the Windows Subsystem for Linux.

Learn about WSL

Build Your First Windows Application

Let's create a simple "Hello, World!" WPF application.

1.

Create a New Project

In Visual Studio, go to File > New > Project. Select "WPF App (.NET Framework)" or "WPF Application" (for .NET Core/.NET 5+) and give your project a name.

2.

Modify MainWindow.xaml

Open `MainWindow.xaml` and replace its content with the following XAML:

<Window x:Class="YourAppName.MainWindow"
        xmlns="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml/presentation"
        xmlns:x="http://schemas.microsoft.com/winfx/2006/xaml"
        Title="Hello World App" Height="200" Width="400">
    <Grid Margin="10">
        <TextBlock Text="Hello, Windows Developer!"
                   HorizontalAlignment="Center"
                   VerticalAlignment="Center"
                   FontSize="24"
                   Foreground="SteelBlue"/>
    </Grid>
</Window>
                    

3.

Run Your Application

Press F5 or click the "Start" button in Visual Studio. Your application will launch, displaying the "Hello, Windows Developer!" message.

Key Resources for Windows Developers

Explore these resources to deepen your knowledge and stay up-to-date:

Microsoft Learn

Comprehensive documentation, tutorials, and learning paths for all Windows technologies.

Explore Docs

MSDN Community

Connect with other developers, ask questions, and share your insights.

Visit Forums

GitHub Samples

Find official and community-driven code samples for Windows development.

Browse Samples

Windows Blog

Stay informed about the latest features, updates, and trends in Windows development.

Read Blog