A set of Rust language projections of Windows APIs, enabling calls to Win32 and WinRT with memory safety and idiomatic Rust types.

When should I use windows-sys vs windows?

Use `windows` for ergonomic, feature-rich bindings. Use `windows-sys` if you want low-level FFI with minimal overhead and manage safety yourself.

Does it support COM and WinRT?

Yes. The projections include COM and WinRT support, letting you activate classes and interface with components using Rust types.

Can I mix with C/C++ code?

Yes. You can interoperate via C ABI and link to native libraries. On Windows, ensure MSVC-compatible builds for smooth linking.

Win32 & WinRT with Rust — windows-rs in Practice

Call native Windows APIs from Rust with windows-rs projections. Pick the right crates, enable only the namespaces you need, and avoid common pitfalls.

Open Quickstart Explore GUI options

File: rustup-init.exe • Source: rust-lang.org • Last updated: —

What you can build with windows-rs

Desktop utilities

File operations, notifications, shell integrations, services and more.

GUI applications

Create windows, handle input, and render UIs with frameworks or raw Win32.

System tools

Access processes, registry, performance counters, networking and COM objects.

Graphics & media

Use DirectX families and media pipelines exposed via Windows APIs.

Choosing the right crate

windows — ergonomic, safe wrappers with Rust types and patterns.
windows-sys — thin, unsafe bindings close to the C ABI for maximal control.

Pick based on your need for safety and ergonomics vs. minimal overhead.

Common pitfalls and quick fixes

Missing SDK headers or libraries — Ensure Windows 10/11 SDK is installed via Visual Studio Installer.
Linker errors (link.exe) — Install Visual Studio Build Tools and use an x64 Developer shell.
Wrong architecture — Build x64 for x64 systems and ensure matching SDK/Tools are installed.
Feature bloat / slow builds — Enable only the Windows namespaces you require.

Need deeper help? Visit Troubleshooting.

Next steps

Pick a UI route: Windows GUI in Rust.
Plan your release: Package & Sign.