Windows 8 Hardware Specs Available

Preliminary hardware requirements that devices, systems, and filter drivers must meet in order to be certified with Windows 8 were published in Dec. 2011. Products covered include peripherals, such as cameras or printers; systems such as tablets, laptops, and servers; and filter drivers such as the new Early Launch Antimalware drivers that protect the OS while it is starting. Partners will want to review and follow these requirements so their products will pass certification and be ready when Windows 8 ships. However, the requirements are not all fully documented and are subject to change.

Windows 8 Hardware Certification

The Windows Hardware Certification Program (formerly the Windows Logo Program for Hardware) provides Microsoft customers with guidance as to which computers and peripheral devices are designed to work with Windows. Hardware certification will likely be a requirement for a computer to be part of the Windows Signature program, which configures computers for sale in the Microsoft retail and online stores.