Deploying Windows Store Applications

Windows 8 and Windows RT emphasize Windows Store applications, which feature a touch-centric user interface design that is much different than traditional Windows applications. Windows Store applications also bring new installation techniques, including the Windows Store and several “sideloading” options for organizational application deployment. Windows Store application developers need to learn the Store’s submission and certification processes, while end users need to become accustomed to using the Store. IT departments need to understand and implement Store usage policies and sideloading techniques to manage application distribution to employee PCs and devices.

For this chapter, the word Store will be used to describe the Microsoft-hosted application Web site or portal, and the term Windows Store will be used to describe the applications available in the Store or preinstalled on Windows 8 and Windows RT.

Windows Store Centralizes Application Acquisition

The new Store that will be available from Windows 8 and Windows RT in multiple global markets and languages) is similar to application stores that have become prevalent on mobile devices in recent years.