As a rule, Microsoft is offering tools and resources designed for developers to build applications on top of Windows client and Server operating systems via the Download Center. However, Microsoft has taken the measure of offering the latest Windows Software Development Kits through an alternative channel that rules out a connection to the Internet and the download process. The Redmond company has partnered with a new vendor, which is supplying previously released Windows SDKs and Platform SDKs almost for free. Users ordering the SDKs from Paragon Media will only pay for the costs of the shipping and handling, as the actual software development kits are free.

“Currently, Paragon is making the Windows SDK for Windows Server and .NET Framework 3.5 and the Windows SDK Update for Windows Vista and .NET Framework 3.0 available at Mssdk Orderport for the cost of a shipping and handling fee. Soon, some additional SDK releases will be available at the same location. Although Windows SDK releases are typically available on the Microsoft Download Center for at least two years, ordering a DVD can be a good option for customers who do not have access to the Internet or customers who have difficulty downloading the SDK due to limited Internet bandwidth,” said Lisa Supinski, Group Manager, Windows SDK team.

Back in March 2007, Microsoft offered the last release of Windows Software Development Kit Update for Windows Vista 6.0. Since then, the company has moved forward with the evolution of its Windows SDK, and offered Windows SDK for Windows Server 2008 and .NET Framework 3.5 which also covers Windows Vista SP1 (Service Pack 1). Following the release of Windows 7 Beta Build 7000, the software giant also made available resources for developers looking to get a jump start in adapting their applications to the next version of Windows with Windows SDK for Windows 7 and .NET Framework 3.5 SP1.

Windows SDK Update for Windows Vista and .NET Framework 3.0 is available for download here.

Windows SDK for Windows Server 2008 and .NET Framework 3.5 can be downloaded from here.

Microsoft Windows SDK for Windows 7 and .NET Framework 3.5 SP1: BETA is available for download here.