How to make my device driver to be a inbox driver ?

Question

Our team develop a network device driver, we have already obtained Microsoft's signature，and push it to Windows Update successfully. We want our driver to be a inbox driver which released together with the latest Windows system，what we need to do?

Answer 1

Follow these procedures to make your device driver an inbox driver included with the current Windows system:

1. Participate in the Windows Hardware Developer Programme: To acquire access to the essential materials and documentation, enroll in the Windows Hardware Developer Programme (WHDP).

2. Meet Microsoft's hardware specifications: Check that your device and driver meet Microsoft's hardware specifications for inclusion in the Windows inbox.

3. Submit your driver for review to Microsoft: Submit your driver for review to Microsoft's Hardware Certification Programme (HCP). They will assess the suitability, stability, and security of your driver.

4. Pass certification exams: Collaborate closely with Microsoft to resolve any issues or bugs discovered during the certification process. To satisfy quality requirements, your driver must pass all relevant examinations.

5. Sign the driver using the following Microsoft signature: Obtain a digital signature for your driver from Microsoft. This signature confirms your driver's legitimacy and trustworthiness.

6. Distribute your driver via Windows Update: Once your driver has been certified and signed, collaborate with Microsoft to distribute it via Windows Update. Your driver will be included in normal Windows system upgrades by Microsoft.

7. Maintain driver compatibility: Keep your drivers up to date and compatible with the most recent Windows releases. Collaborate with Microsoft to resolve any compatibility issues that may emerge.

By following these procedures, you can maximize the likelihood of your device driver becoming an inbox driver included with the most recent Windows system.

Have a nice day.

Answer 2

Hi Vivek, Thank you very much for your answer! 

Does the sixth step indicate that once my driver is successfully applied for Windows Update,  my driver will be added to the latest offline system image by Microsoft instead of requiring customers to update online？

Our ultimate goal is to enable users to use our drivers after installing the Windows system without being connected to the internet (as far as I know, Intel and Realtek's network cards can do it).

Thanks!