Develop: Getting Started

Updated: June 9, 2009

Microsoft provides tools and resources to support development and testing of device drivers for the Microsoft Windows family of operating systems.

For details about designing drivers for Windows, follow these steps:

1. Design and develop drivers for reliability, stability, and security.
For details about designing drivers for Windows, see:

Driver Fundamentals Overview
White papers, checklists, and access to resources for creating reliable, secure drivers.

Development Tools and Testing Overview
Information about development and testing tools, and access to the Windows Driver Kit (WDK) and other kits and tools for driver development.

2. Design drivers to meet driver signing and Windows Logo Program requirements.
For details, see:

Driver Signing

Windows Logo Program System and Device Requirements

3. Obtain and develop with the current WDK.
The Windows Driver Kit (WDK) contains tools, sample code, debugging symbols, and documentation for developing reliable Windows drivers. See also Which Windows Driver Kit and Test Kit to Use.

4. Implement device setup and driver installation as defined in the WDK.
For tools, samples, and documentation for developing installation programs and INF files, see the WDK.

Use SetupAPI logs for troubleshooting Windows Setup and device installation.

5. Test device drivers by using Driver Verifier.

It's free, it's built into Windows, and it's easy to use.

Approximately half the errors seen in drivers through Windows Error Reporting could have been detected during development by using Driver Verifier.

6. Use MVP consultants and other trainers to learn about driver development.
The Most Valuable Professionals (MVP), who are experts in issues related to driver development, provide consulting and training services.