MSDN Documentation

Guides: Windows IoT Overview

Welcome to the comprehensive guide for Windows IoT. This section provides an overview of the platform, its capabilities, and how to get started with developing innovative solutions for the Internet of Things.

What is Windows IoT?

Windows IoT is a family of operating systems designed for a wide range of intelligent devices, from small embedded systems to powerful industrial gateways. It combines the familiar Windows development experience with the robustness and security features needed for IoT deployments.

Key Features and Capabilities:

• Rich Development Ecosystem: Leverage existing Windows developer skills and tools like Visual Studio, .NET, UWP, and Win32 APIs.
• Robust Security: Benefit from Windows security features like Secure Boot, device lockdown, and regular updates.
• Connectivity Options: Support for various connectivity protocols including Wi-Fi, Ethernet, Bluetooth, and cellular.
• Device Management: Integrate with cloud services for remote monitoring, management, and updates.
• Scalability: Deploy solutions across diverse hardware, from low-power devices to high-performance systems.

Choosing the Right Version

Microsoft offers different editions of Windows IoT tailored to specific needs:

• Windows 10 IoT Enterprise: For devices that require the full Windows experience and compatibility with traditional desktop applications. Ideal for kiosks, point-of-sale systems, and industrial automation.
• Windows 10 IoT Core: A smaller footprint OS for devices like Raspberry Pi and other single-board computers, optimized for specific tasks and a streamlined user interface.

Getting Started

To begin your journey with Windows IoT, we recommend the following steps:

1. Familiarize yourself with the hardware requirements for your target devices. See our Hardware Considerations guide.
2. Set up your development environment using Visual Studio and the appropriate Windows IoT SDK.
3. Explore the basic building blocks of IoT development with our Getting Started tutorial.
4. Dive into specific areas such as software development, networking, and security through the dedicated guides.

Key Technologies to Explore:

As you progress, consider these essential technologies:

• Universal Windows Platform (UWP): For building modern, touch-first applications that can run across Windows devices.
• .NET Core / .NET 5+: For cross-platform development and high-performance services.
• Azure IoT Hub: A managed cloud service to enable secure device-to-cloud and cloud-to-device communication.
• Containerization (Docker): For deploying and managing applications efficiently.

This section serves as your central hub for understanding the fundamentals of Windows IoT. Use the sidebar navigation to delve deeper into specific topics.