Getting started with your Windows 8 store developer account

Now that the general availability (GA) of Windows 8 is nearing, I've got several questions on where to find the correct link to start selling your Windows 8 store applications.

For granted, at least currently, the correct spot on MSDN can be difficult to find. What you need to know is the location of the Windows Development Center for Windows Store applications. Officially, this site is called "Dev Center - Windows Store Apps" and is located here:

http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/apps

Once you go to this site, click the Sign In link at the top-right corner of the page, and then log in with your Live Id. After logging in, click the Dashboard link at the top-left corner, just below the Windows logo.

Then, simply follow the instructions, and be sure to have your credit card handy. For me, the store account cost 37.00 euros, roughly USD $50.

Here's the direct link to the dashboard:

https://appdev.microsoft.com/StorePortals/en-us

For more detailed instruction, see this documentation page on MSDN: Opening a developer account.

See you at the store!