Installing the XDK and Dev Kit Software

To begin development for Xbox One, set up the software components of the development environment. Specifically, you need to set up your development computer and select dev kit mode on your Xbox One console. Then connect the two over a network so that they can communicate.

Setting up your development computer and your dev kit can be performed in any order or even simultaneously, but both operations must be complete before establishing a network connection between the two. It is recommended that you begin to set up your development computer before you set up the dev kit as the steps to set up your development computer may take some time. While you are waiting for these steps to finish, you can begin setting up the dev kit.

To install the XDK and the dev kit, perform the following steps in order:

1. Installing the XDK on Your Development Computer. Install Visual Studio and the XDK.
2. Activating Your Dev Kit. Enable your console for use with the development and testing of your game or app. Performing this step is conditional based on your specific situation.
3. Changing from Retail to Dev Kit Mode. Select dev kit mode on your console.
4. Setting a Hostname for the Console IP Address. Set a friendly name (called a hostname) for the console IP address. Performing this step is optional based on your specific needs.
5. Connecting Your Development Computer to Your Dev Kit. Connect your development computer to your dev kit on the network.
6. Flashing the OS Recovery onto Your Dev Kit. Update the dev kit with the latest release of the Xbox One operating system.
7. Configuring Dev Kit Settings. Configure your dev kit.