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Windows SDK

The Windows SDK (10.0.26100) for Windows 11 contains the latest platform headers, libraries, WinRT metadata, and build tools required to develop Windows applications. It supports both UWP and Win32 development and can target Windows 11, version 25H2, in addition to previous Windows releases. By using this SDK, developers gain access to the full set of Windows APIs and capabilities needed to build native and performant applications.

Additionally, the Windows App SDK builds on top of the Windows SDK by offering a consistent set of modern Windows APIs for desktop apps, allowing developers to adopt new capabilities without depending on a specific Windows version.

Download Windows SDK

To see what's new, check out the release notes.

Release channels

The Windows SDK is available in the following channels:

Release channel Description Includes experimental APIs
Stable Default SDK release intended for production use. Includes all current stable APIs and a limited set of experimental APIs. ✅
Preview Preview SDK built on Windows Insider Preview releases. Provides access to newer and upcoming APIs, including experimental ones. ✅

Support and servicing

SDK Version Status EOS Date Notes
26100 Supported
22621 Out of support 2025-11-12 Aligned with 22621 Enterprise OS EOS
22000 Out of support
20348 Out of support Patched version shipped
19041 End of support 2025-10-14
18362 and before Out of support

Note

Upcoming SDK versions (for OEMs and developers) The early-release SDK (10.0.28000.1) is intended for OEMs, IHVs, and ISVs preparing for new OS-based devices for early 2026. Download it from the Downloads page. It includes APIs for the next‑generation OS release and isn't recommended for general app development—most apps should continue using SDK 10.0.26100.x.

System requirements

The Windows SDK has the following minimum system requirements:

Supported operating systems

  • Windows 11, version 21h2 or higher: Home, Pro, Education, and Enterprise (LTSC is not supported for UWP)
  • Windows 10, version 1507 or higher: Home, Pro, Education, and Enterprise (LTSB/LTSC and S mode are not supported for UWP)
  • Windows Server 2022, Windows Server 2019, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2012 R2 (Command line only)
  • Windows 8.1
  • Windows 7 SP1

(Not all tools are supported on earlier operating systems)

Hardware requirements

  • 1.6 GHz or faster processor
  • 1 GB of RAM
  • 4 GB of available hard disk space

Additional SDK requirements

Installation on Windows 8.1 and earlier operating systems requires an Update for Universal C Runtime in Windows. To install through Windows Update, make sure you install the latest recommended updates and patches from Microsoft Update before you install the Windows SDK.

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