Dive into WinUI app development with Microsoft’s guide. Start by installing Visual Studio, enabling Developer Mode, creating your first app, and updating to the latest SDK. Perfect for beginners eager to enhance their Windows development skills.-

Embarking on the WinUI Journey: A Beginner’s Guide
For those looking to dive into Windows app development, Microsoft’s latest guide on getting started with WinUI is your new go-to resource. This comprehensive walkthrough is designed to equip you with the necessary tools and knowledge to launch your first WinUI app.
First Steps with Visual Studio
At the heart of Windows app development is Visual Studio, Microsoft’s all-encompassing IDE. It’s tailored for developers eager to write, debug, and deploy applications across various platforms, including Windows. With project templates to speed up your project initiation, Visual Studio stands as the preferred choice for many developers.
“Visual Studio, Microsoft’s comprehensive integrated development environment (IDE), to create your WinUI app.”
Before jumping in, ensure your development computer aligns with the system requirements for Windows app development. Downloading and installing the latest Visual Studio is straightforward, with detailed instructions provided for those who need them.
Choosing the Right Edition and Workloads
The Visual Studio Community Edition, free of charge, packs everything needed to start crafting your apps. For those in a development team or enterprise setting, the Professional or Enterprise editions might be more suitable. The choice largely depends on your specific needs and the scale of your projects.
During the Visual Studio installation, selecting the correct workloads and components is crucial for WinUI and Windows App SDK development. This process is made easy with the Visual Studio Installer app, where you can modify your installation to include everything necessary for C# or C++ app development.
Launching Your First WinUI App
Once Visual Studio is set up, the next steps involve enabling Developer Mode on your Windows device, creating, and launching your first WinUI app. This process is a significant milestone for any aspiring Windows app developer.
Major Updates and What’s Important
It’s essential to keep your WinUI and Windows App SDK updated to leverage the latest features and security enhancements. Staying current ensures your apps run smoothly and remain compatible with the newest development standards.
“Update to the latest WinUI/Windows App SDK.”
This guide not only walks you through the initial setup but also directs you to valuable resources for further learning. Whether you’re exploring best practices, looking for sample projects, or seeking answers to FAQs, there’s a wealth of information at your fingertips.
In conclusion, Microsoft’s guide to getting started with WinUI is a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to make their mark in Windows app development. With Visual Studio as your companion, the journey from novice to expert is both exciting and rewarding. Embrace the challenge and start building your first WinUI app today!
- Visual Studio is essential for WinUI app development, offering tools for writing, debugging, and deploying apps.
- Before installation, ensure your PC meets the system requirements for Windows app development.
- Visual Studio Community Edition is free and includes all necessary features for app creation.
- Install specific workloads and components for WinUI and Windows App SDK development during Visual Studio setup.
- For C# and C++ app development, select appropriate development tools within the Visual Studio Installer.
From the Windows Blog