Get started with Windows 10 IoT Core

Creating your own device is exciting, but we understand that it can also be intimidating. The resources below will help you on your prototype or commercialization journey.

Have questions along the way? Please work with your Microsoft contact or post questions on our Windows 10 IoT forum.

What is Windows 10 IoT?

To learn more about our offerings, see the documentation below to learn more.

Topic Description
Windows IoT overview Compare our two Windows 10 IoT products and see which solution is the right fit for you.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise overview Learn more about how to get started with Windows 10 IoT Enterprise.
Windows 10 IoT Core overview Learn more about how to get started with Windows 10 IoT Core.
Windows Server IoT 2019 Learn more about how to get started with Windows Server IoT 2019.

Windows 10 IoT pricing

Purpose Pricing
Long-Term Servicing Channel (LTSC) for commercialization Small fee per device with access to 10 years of support, update control and Device Health Attestation (DHA). Learn more here.
Semi-Annual Channel (SAC) for commercialization Free, but you will not get access to 10 years of support, update control, or DHA. You will also need to sign our commercialization agreement. Request it here.

Learn more about detailed lifecycle information here.

Prototype a device

Before attempting to manufacture a device, it's best to first try and prototype a device with Windows 10 IoT Core. That way, you can understand what features you'll need and what configurations you'll want when it's time to manufacture.

Topic Description
1. Pick a prototype board Take a look at common prototype boards and choose one to start prototyping with.
2. Flash a prototype image Go to our tutorial sections to learn how to flash prototype images onto your selected device(s).
3. Install your app Learn how to install your app using different tools.
4. Deploy your app Learn how to deploy an app using Visual Studio.

Bring a device to market

Commercialization, or the process of bringing a device to market, involves more moving parts and people than just prototyping a device on your own time. Commercialization requires a number of steps to ensure that your devices, wherever they are in the world, can receive updates, are as secure as possible, and are compliant.

Start with the manufacturing guide that works best for you, depending on which version of Windows 10 IoT you're looking to use.

Topic Description
Windows 10 IoT Core Manufacturing Guide Start here and learn how to create custom test and retail images for your commercial Windows 10 IoT Core solution.
Windows 10 IoT Enterprise Manufacturing Guide Start here and learn how to create an image for your commercial Windows 10 IoT Enterprise solution.