Microsoft Fingerprint Reader does not provide a software development kit (SDK), nor are there any APIs available for developers to write programs for the Fingerprint Reader.

This is by design. The Microsoft Fingerprint Reader was designed specifically for use with a single home computer. The Fingerprint Reader lets the user easily access Web sites, log on to the computer, and switch users on the computer by replacing passwords with a fingerprint. However, this device does not incorporate any protocols or encryption schemes that are considered requirements for its use as a security device. For example, the Fingerprint Reader does not incorporate the protocols or encryption schemes that are used when authenticating users on an enterprise domain.

Microsoft has not released an SDK for this product. This is to make sure that third-party developers do not develop security programs that would change the customer target for the Fingerprint Reader or enable the Fingerprint Reader for use in a corporate environment. Moreover, Microsoft has put technology into the device that restricts the Fingerprint Reader to only use the bundled DigitalPersona Password Manager personal consumer program and device drivers. This technology enforces the goal of restricting the device's uses to comply with its design goal.

Microsoft does not support any third-party SDKs. Users of any existing third-party SDKs or toolkits should be aware that they are in violation of the software license agreement with Microsoft and DigitalPersona, and that internal, undocumented interfaces and protocols are subject to change at any time. Microsoft bears no obligation to the support of the product when it is used with anything other than the bundled software and driver.