Windows API Programming
This section provides comprehensive documentation for developing applications on the Windows platform using various Application Programming Interfaces (APIs).
Win32 APIs
The Win32 API is the primary interface for developing native Windows applications. It provides access to the core functionality of the Windows operating system.
- Core Concepts: Processes, Threads, Memory Management, Window Management, GDI.
- Key Components: Kernel32.dll, User32.dll, GDI32.dll.
- Common Tasks: File I/O, Registry Access, System Information.
Component Object Model (COM)
COM is a binary-standard for creating reusable software components. It's fundamental for inter-process communication and building extensible applications.
- Interfaces: IUnknown, IDispatch.
- Registries: COM Object Registration.
- Technologies: ActiveX, OLE Automation.
.NET Framework APIs
The .NET Framework offers a rich set of managed libraries and services for building a wide range of Windows applications, from desktop to web services.
- Namespaces: System, System.Windows.Forms, System.Web.
- Languages: C#, VB.NET.
- Features: Garbage Collection, Exception Handling, Security.
Discover .NET Framework APIs »
Universal Windows Platform (UWP) APIs
UWP enables the development of applications that can run across all Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices, providing a consistent user experience and access to modern hardware capabilities.
- App Model: App Lifecycle, Package Management.
- UI Frameworks: XAML, DirectX.
- Capabilities: Sensors, Location Services, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi Direct.
Get Started with UWP Development »
Featured API Categories
| Category | Description | Key Concepts |
|---|---|---|
| File System APIs | APIs for managing files, directories, and storage. | CreateFile, GetFileAttributes, ReadDirectoryChangesW |
| Registry APIs | APIs for accessing and manipulating the Windows Registry. | RegOpenKeyEx, RegSetValueEx, RegQueryValueEx |
| Networking APIs | APIs for network communication and services. | Winsock, Http API, URL Moniker |
| Graphics APIs | APIs for rendering 2D and 3D graphics. | GDI, Direct2D, Direct3D, DirectX |
| Security APIs | APIs for implementing security features in applications. | Cryptography API (CryptoAPI), Security Support Provider Interface (SSPI) |
Recent Updates
- Updated documentation for the latest Windows SDK APIs related to DirectX 12 Ultimate.
- New guides on leveraging Windows Hello for Business APIs.
- Improvements to the Performance API reference.