Introduction

Microsoft has announced significant changes to Windows 11's driver and device metadata systems, set to take effect in 2025. These updates will impact device manufacturers, IT professionals, and end-users by altering how hardware drivers are developed, signed, and managed.

Retirement of Device Metadata and WMIS

Overview:
  • Effective Date: May 2025
  • Key Changes:
    • End of Service: Device metadata and the Windows Metadata and Internet Services (WMIS) will be retired.
    • Partner Center Restrictions: Creation, modification, or promotion of device metadata experiences will be disabled.
    • Existing Metadata: Packages already on Windows clients will remain but won't receive updates.
Background:

Device metadata, introduced with Windows 7, provides user-facing information such as icons, logos, and descriptions for hardware devices. This data enhances user experience by offering recognizable and consistent device details across Windows interfaces like Device Manager.

Implications:
  • For Device Manufacturers:
    • Transition to INF Files: Manufacturers must embed device information directly into driver INF files.
    • Customization Limitations: The shift may reduce the ability to provide rich, branded device experiences.
  • For IT Professionals:
    • Simplified Management: Reducing reliance on external metadata services can streamline device management.
    • Potential Challenges: Ensuring all devices have updated INF files with accurate metadata will be crucial.
Technical Details:
  • Driver Package Container Metadata:
    • Availability: Functionality for Windows 11 24H2 clients began in March 2025.
    • Guidance: Developers are advised to include device information in driver INF or extension INF files.

Changes to Pre-Production Driver Signing

Overview:
  • Certificate Authority (CA) Update:
    • Current CA Expiration: The existing CA used for pre-production driver signing (PCA 2010) will expire in July 2025.
    • New CA Implementation: Starting June 9, 2025, a new CA named "Microsoft Windows Component Preproduction CA 2024" will be used.
Background:

Pre-production drivers are essential for testing hardware and software compatibility before public release. The signing process ensures these drivers are trusted by Windows systems.

Implications:
  • For Developers:
    • Decoupled Expiration: Drivers signed after June 9, 2025, will not have their validity tied to the CA's expiration, allowing for indefinite testing periods.
    • Action Required: Developers must ensure their systems are updated to recognize the new CA to avoid trust issues with pre-production drivers.
Technical Details:
  • Servicing Releases:
    • Schedule: Windows servicing releases on April 22, May 13, and June 10, 2025, will update systems to trust the new CA.
    • Requirement: Partners must install these updates to maintain seamless pre-production driver testing.

Conclusion

The upcoming changes to Windows 11's driver and device metadata systems represent a significant shift towards modernization and security. Device manufacturers and IT professionals must prepare for these transitions by updating their processes and ensuring compliance with the new guidelines to maintain compatibility and provide optimal user experiences.