Windows App SDK Documentation

Packaging Concepts for the Windows App SDK

Packaging is a critical aspect of distributing your Windows applications. The Windows App SDK leverages modern packaging technologies to ensure a consistent, reliable, and secure distribution model for your apps.

Understanding Package Types

The Windows App SDK primarily supports the following packaging formats:

• MSIX: This is the recommended and most modern packaging format for Windows applications. MSIX provides a clean installation, uninstallation, and update experience, and integrates seamlessly with the Microsoft Store. It's built on existing technologies but offers significant improvements for app deployment and management.
• Framework Packages: For the Windows App SDK itself, the runtime components are delivered as framework packages. Your application will depend on these framework packages, ensuring that all apps using the Windows App SDK benefit from the same runtime.

MSIX Packaging Workflow

Creating an MSIX package for your Windows App SDK application typically involves these steps:

1. Project Setup: Ensure your project is configured to target the Windows App SDK and is set up for MSIX packaging within your development environment (e.g., Visual Studio).
2. Manifest Configuration: Define your application's identity, capabilities, and other metadata in the app.manifest file. This file is crucial for how Windows recognizes and manages your app.
3. Building the Package: Use your build tools (like Visual Studio's built-in MSIX packaging feature) to generate the .msix or .msixbundle file.
4. Signing: Sign your package with a certificate to ensure its authenticity and integrity. This is essential for installation on Windows.
5. Deployment: Distribute your package through the Microsoft Store, enterprise deployment methods, or directly to users.

Dependencies and Framework Packages

When you use the Windows App SDK, your application will have dependencies on the core Windows App SDK runtime components. These are provided as framework packages that are installed on the user's system.

Your MSIX package will declare a dependency on the appropriate Windows App SDK framework package version. This ensures that:

• Your app has access to the necessary APIs and components.
• Users benefit from a shared runtime, reducing disk space and improving system stability.
• Updates to the Windows App SDK are managed independently of your app's updates.

Key Considerations for Packaging

• Targeting Windows Versions: Ensure your packaging strategy aligns with the minimum Windows version you intend to support.
• Capabilities: Declare only the necessary capabilities your application requires in the manifest to adhere to security best practices.
• Resources: Properly include all application assets, icons, and other resources in your package.
• Updates: Plan your update strategy. MSIX provides robust support for automatic updates, especially when distributed via the Microsoft Store.

Further Reading

• MSIX documentation
• Package your app
• Create your package manual steps